Developing equity-centered language with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples to reduce anti-Indigenous discrimination in healthcare

Anti-Indigenous discrimination and racism are pervasive in healthcare across BC. One contributing factor is the language that is used to describe First Nations, Inuit, and Métis (FNIM) peoples. Language is powerful, and the words we read, hear, and use can change the way we think and behave. Unfortunately, many of these words about FNIM peoples are negatively biased. With continued exposure to this negative language, particularly in the published health literature, healthcare providers can develop negative feelings and thoughts about FNIM peoples, which can lead to biased action, and ultimately culturally unsafe care. Our goal is to develop equity-centered language to reduce anti-Indigenous racism in healthcare. In collaboration from the outset with FNIM researchers, healthcare providers, patients, caregivers, and community members, we will use Indigenous research methods to co-develop tools that provide specific and concrete guidance to identify and prevent the use of negative, deficit-based language, while providing and promoting positive language, starting with cancer care. Adapting how we communicate in healthcare and research will bring us one step closer to culturally safe care for FNIM peoples in BC and nation-wide.