Presentation Information

Exploring Bias and Racism in Sexual and Reproductive Health Care in Remote Canada: A Collection of Stories

• Speaker: Heather Heinrichs , RM, IBCLC
• Presentation Type:
• Duration: 60 Mins
• Credits: 1 CERP, 1 ACM CPD, 1 ACNM CEU, 0.1 Midwifery CEU

Abstract:

Systemic racism and bias of individuals in healthcare has a significant impact on the health and well-being of clients/patients, care providers, and communities.

The Canadian midwifery model of care is well-suited to mitigate some of the disparities caused by bias and racism in sexual and reproductive health care. It is also not impossible for well-intentioned midwives to contribute to, and uphold the systems that discriminate.

Drawing from her lived experience as a Métis midwife, Heather will share anecdotes and stories that illustrate the stark differences between communities where there is no access to midwifery care, compared to a community with access. She will explore ways that systemic racism is manifest within sexual and reproductive health care in Canada, and the impacts on patients/clients, healthcare providers, and communities.

Strategies to mitigate these negative impacts must be led by the communities that experience them and supported by others who work and live with these people. A strengths based, community-led approach must be taken. This requires taking a deep look within ourselves and the systems that we work in to understand the breadth of the problem that we face.

Participants will leave the presentation with concrete steps they can take to help combat racism and work towards dismantling systems that contribute to ongoing oppression.