Uvbi Osatohangbon
Dec 4/2022
INDG 49-246350P
Bradley Gibson
REFLECTION
This course covered many things but one thing I learned from this course is the meaning behind some of the many treaties of Canada. Although I knew that Canada is covered by multiple treaties before this course, I did not know what these treaties meant and the purpose behind many of them. One of my favorite treaties I learned about is the two-wampum belt treaty, which is represented by a belt with two purple rows and 3 white rows. This treaty symbolizes two vessels traveling down the same path with no chance of overlapping or interfering with one another. I really like the meaning behind this treaty and although sadly it was not honored, I am still glad that this course was able to allow me to learn about it. It has thought me that although in the past people refused to walk alongside Indigenous people, In the present as an individual and future healthcare, I can start honoring these treaties by not only acknowledging them but also acting according to what they stand for. For instance, I can begin to walk alongside indigenous people without interfering with their own path. This will help me have better relationships with future patients and build trust amongst Indigenous people. I may not be able to convince the whole country to change its ways, but I can change mine and work towards a better future for Indigenous people and all of Canada. Another topic that was covered and impacted me is racism. Racism is a problem that can lead to more problems like stigma, depression, fear, and stereotyping. For this reason, it is important for it to be made known so that the future generation can assist in solving this problem by helping. As a future healthcare worker, I believe this topic should be of high concern due to the negative impacts it can lead to. Due to the field, I am heading into, I believe it is important for me to work towards eliminating the racialized health outcomes present in our current system to build a new one using the strengths of indigenous people. Canada is often painted as a loving country with very few problems, but I see Canada as a country that even though it has a lot of its own problems it still can make a difference if the right information keeps being spread.