In this episode, our host Sandra chats with Derek K. Thompson – Čaabať Bookwilla | Suhiltun, a member of the diitiidʔaaʔtx̣ – Ditidaht First Nation and Director of Indigenous Engagement at the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Medicine. They discuss the role of non-Indigenous medical learners and trainees in realizing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s 94 Calls to Action, and especially those that relate to health.
Through stories, history, and insights from his personal and professional experiences, Derek offers listeners practical strategies for honouring the Calls to Action in their work within the health care system. He discusses using trauma-informed approaches to care, creating space for knowledge systems about wellness and healing that go beyond the biomedical, and making an emotional commitment to kindness and understanding.
Tune in as we explore the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action, and the unique part that you, as medical learners and trainees, play in advancing them.
Resources:
Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s 94 Calls to Action.
Check out the report, First Nations Population Health and Wellness Agenda: First Interim Update, 2024, mentioned in this episode.
Derek will be leading the online event, “To Bear Witness: A Meaningful Conversation with my Mom on Belonging and Perseverance”, on 23 April 2025: Learn more or register now.
Credits:
Additional music by Denis Pavlov, used under the Pixabay content license.