In early 2021, the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health (NCCIH) presented a four-part virtual series looking at the experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples and communities with COVID-19.

Held over four Wednesdays in January (13, 20, and 27) and on February 3, 2021, the series explored themes including: Indigenous governance and self-determination in planning and responding to COVID-19; socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 on the health and well-being of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples; data collection on COVID-19 cases in First Nations, Inuit and Métis populations and communities; and innovative public health messaging on COVID-19 and Indigenous Peoples.

Virtual Session 2 — January 20, 2021

This session, Socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 on the health and well-being of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis populations, brought together expert speakers working in a diversity of public health fields across Canada, including:

• Dr. Chris Mushquash, Lakehead University

• Dr. Theresa Tam, Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, Public Health Agency of Canada

• Rebbeca Kudloo, Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada

• Neil Belanger, British Columbia Aboriginal Network on Disability Society - Presentation (PDF)

• Dr. Myrle Ballard, University of Manitoba - Presentation (PDF)

   

The presentations highlighted the breadth of impacts that the pandemic has had on the lives of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. For example, they highlighted how First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples’ experiences with health inequities, mental health, physical safety and mobility have been exacerbated through the pandemic. Panelists also offered up ideas for community-led solutions and strengths exercised by First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples and communities throughout COVID-19, as well as policies and services to enhance their health and well-being.

Watch webinar recording on YouTube

Read program with speakers' biographies (PDF) | Listen to webinar recording on SoundCloud