TRUTH & RECONCILIATION
Reconciliation in health care
Colleen Galasso
As Canada commemorated the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on 30 September, the medical community took a moment to reflect on its vital role in advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. This year was particularly significant, as the Canadian Medical Association delivered a heartfelt formal apology on 18 September 2024. The ceremony took place on the traditional lands of the lək̓wəŋən-speaking people of the Songhees and Xwsepsum Nations in Victoria, BC. This apology was not just words; it was a recognition of the profound harms inflicted by the medical profession on Indigenous communities, and it underscored the pervasive impact of systemic bias and racism in health care.
True reconciliation is not just about acknowledging past wrongs; it requires a genuine commitment to building a brighter future together. As health care leaders, physicians have a unique responsibility to reflect on their roles and take deliberate action to dismantle biases. This includes a dedicated effort to work toward the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action.
The Canadian Society of Physician Leaders (CSPL) is committed to this journey of reconciliation. We recognize the pivotal role physician leaders play in shaping the future of health care, and we are focused on making reconciliation a part of our work moving forward. To that end, CSPL has integrated reconciliation principles into the Canadian Certified Physician Executive credential. Now, as part of the certification process, physician leaders are encouraged to consider how their influence and oversight can support initiatives aligned with the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action. By keeping reconciliation at the forefront, we can make it a core responsibility in leading health care organizations and institutions.
While this apology marks a crucial step forward, it is only the beginning of a longer journey toward meaningful change.
In addition, CSPL is encouraging workshop presenters at the 2025 Canadian Conference on Physician Leadership to integrate principles of equity, diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and reconciliation into their sessions. We believe it’s essential for physician leaders to take meaningful and intentional actions to advance these critical areas in their leadership practices. Furthermore, our public commitment on the CSPL website — to acknowledge the existence of bias in health care, support the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, and actively seek feedback — reflects our desire to deepen our understanding and efforts in reconciliation.
Leadership in health care is about fostering an environment where everyone — especially those from marginalized communities — feels seen, heard, respected, and included. Reconciliation is a complex, ongoing journey, and physician leaders must be at the forefront of this charge. By engaging with Indigenous communities, confronting systemic barriers, and committing to actionable steps, we can create a more inclusive and hopeful future for all in health care. Together, we have the opportunity to make a real difference.
Author
Colleen Galasso is executive director of the Canadian Society of Physician Leaders.
Correspondence to:
colleen@physicianleaders.ca
