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January 2025 Newsletter
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In the time of the deep cold, Tsiothóhrha, called December, and the very deep cold, Tsiohthohrkó:wa, called January, my people sat in their longhouses with their families by the fires telling stories and teachings. Our hunters would be out, catching game to bring home. When the star constellation called the Seven Sisters, or Pleiades was at its highest, they would start their journey home, and their arrival would begin the important Midwinter festivals and ceremonies.  

And so, this is where we are now. We are with our families back home in our principle or urban communities. Many of us have had to work through this time in the homes, clinics, and hospitals that are hosting our patients.  

Position Statements on Reconciliation and Anti-Indigenous Racism in Healthcare
The IPAC Board has released two significant position statements, addressing critical issues in healthcare and medical education and grounded in our shared values and commitment to actionable change.
  • Truth, Reconciliation, and Ameliorative Programs in Medical Education and Professional Ethics (November 14, 2024): This statement explores the importance of embedding reconciliation and ethical approaches in medical education to foster equity and inclusion.
  • Documenting Anti-Indigenous Racism and Discrimination in Healthcare Settings (November 16, 2024): This statement highlights the urgent need for systemic accountability in addressing and documenting anti-Indigenous racism in healthcare.

The Position Statements are available in both and in .
Introducing Darcie Dyer
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Hello IPAC members, supporters, and newsletter readers!

My name is Darcie (they/them/iel/ellui), and I am thrilled to join the IPAC team as the new Membership and Mentorship Manager. My journey has taken me from advocating for human rights and celebrating arts and culture to this meaningful opportunity to support Indigenous physicians, medical learners, and communities. I am deeply honoured to contribute to the promotion and uplifting of Indigenous health, wellness, and knowledge. I look forward to collaborating with many of you!

Feel free to connect with me anytime at . I’m happy to assist with questions about memberships, enrollment in our mentorship program, or our Annual Mentorship Gathering. And if you’d like to chat about ceramics or cats, I’d love that too!

Warmly,
Darcie
Advocacy in Action: Clearing Pathways for Indigenous Learners
We’re excited to share a recent success in our advocacy efforts on behalf of one of our student members! This student encountered a significant barrier in proceeding with their CaRMS application due to citizenship requirements. Although they were raised in Canada, held a valid status card, and were an active member of their community, their application was initially stalled because they were born on the U.S. side of Akwesasne—a border community with unique jurisdictional challenges, as the community spans the international boundary between Ontario, Quebec, and New York State.

Through dedicated advocacy, temporary measures were put in place to address this issue, enabling the student to continue with their application process. This breakthrough is an important reminder of the often-overlooked challenges faced by Indigenous learners, particularly those from border communities like Akwesasne, where cross-border complexities can create additional barriers to educational and professional opportunities.

This case highlights the need for greater understanding and tailored solutions to support Indigenous students navigating complex bureaucratic systems. This success is not just a win for the student, but also a powerful demonstration of collective advocacy and how our community can unite to support each other in overcoming systemic barriers.
 
Learn More About IPAC's Advocacy Work .
IPAC Members Shine
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(Photo courtesy of Megan Morris/Schulich Communications)

Meet Taylore Dupuis Shalovsky, a Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry - Western University student on a mission to boost Indigenous representation and cultural safety in medicine! Read how she’s working to reduce barriers for Indigenous learners and patients. 

Read Taylore's Story
 
Empowering Spaces: A Guide to Advocating for Indigenous Medical Learner Lounges
Indigenous student lounges are more than just a place to study—they're spaces where learners build community, connect with culture, and find the support they need to thrive in medical school. These lounges have helped countless students foster resilience, access tailored resources, and succeed in their medical journeys.

Learn how to advocate for these spaces and read success stories in Empowering Spaces: A Guide to Advocating for Indigenous Medical Learner Lounges.

2023-2024 TRC Report Card Results Now Available!
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The TRC Report Card Group has released the 2023-2024 survey results!

Read the full reports, available in both and .

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the students who shared their experiences—your voices are central to this important work. A special thank you to the TRC Report Card Group for their dedication and efforts in bringing this report to life.

For questions, please contact .
 
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Secure your financial future – Medicus Pension Plan TM and your RRSPs
As RRSP season approaches, it’s a great time to strengthen your retirement savings plan. Join Simone Reitzes, Managing Director of the Medicus Pension Plan, on February 10, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET for a webinar on how the Medicus Pension Plan can complement your RRSPs and provide predictable, lifetime income in retirement. Don’t miss this chance to secure your financial future.

 
Winter Recap
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In September and October, IPAC hosted mentorship events at 14 medical schools across Turtle Island, providing safe spaces for Indigenous medical learners and physicians to connect, build networks, and share in the spirit of medical education.

Thank you to the CMA Foundation for supporting our mentorship events and strengthening connections across the country.

We are also grateful to the staff at each participating school—these events wouldn’t have been possible without your support. And to the learners and physicians who attended, thank you for sharing your perspectives on Indigenous health and wellness and helping create transformative spaces.

You can find more details about our mentorship events .
 
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In November, the IPAC Board and staff gathered in Quebec City on the traditional territory of the Huron-Wendat Nation to plan for the future, including the Annual Mentorship Gathering in June 2025.

The Board and Executive Director, Melanie Osmack, were honoured to attend a milestone celebration hosted by Quebec’s four medical schools—Université Laval, McGill University, Université de Montréal, and Université de Sherbrooke—to recognize the 100th medical student in the Quebec Indigenous Pathways Program.

Thank to you the Canadian Medical Association, MD Financial Management Inc. and Scotiabank for supporting our development and wellness weekend, one of several initiatives that comprise their $115 million commitment to supporting the medical profession and advancing health in Canada.

We also extend our gratitude to the Alberta Medical Association, Ontario Medical Association, and Nova Scotia Health Authority for making our Board's participation in this event possible.

Together, we continue advancing Indigenous health and leadership!
 
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PRIDoC 2024 brought Indigenous healthcare leaders to Kaurna Country (Adelaide, South Australia) from December 2–6 under the theme Ngadluku Warra, Ngadluku Tapa Purruna, Ngadluku Purruna (Our Language, Our Culture, Our Health), highlighting the vital connections between language, culture, and health.

As the Indigenous Physicians Association of Canada, we joined organizations like AIDA, ‘Ahahui o nā Kauka, the Association of American Indian Physicians, MAIPT, and Te ORA to share ideas and strengthen collaboration in Indigenous health.

Over 70 Canadian delegates attended, including Indigenous students, residents, and physicians shaping the future of healthcare.

Click the link for highlights from the unforgettable !
Upcoming
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Join Us for the 2025 IPAC Mentorship Gathering & AGM!
📅 June 6–8, 2025 📍 Misâskwatômina (Saskatoon), SK | Treaty 6 Territory

This year’s theme, “Two-Eyed Seeing in Land, Culture, and Health,” highlights the journey of blending traditional Indigenous knowledge with Western medicine to create a wholistic approach to health and healing.

What to Expect:
✅ Interactive workshops & breakout sessions with healthcare leaders
✅ Wellness activities focused on balance, mindfulness, and self-care
✅ Networking opportunities with peers and mentors
✅ Cultural experiences rooted in tradition and community

Accommodations: Discounted rooms are available at the Holiday Inn Saskatoon Downtown—book early to secure your spot!

Important for Medical Students and Residents:
Your school may cover your attendance. Contact your Indigenous coordinator—find the list .

Spaces Are Limited—
 
Wellness and Healing: A Guide for Indigenous Physicians & Learners
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We are excited to announce the release of the Wellness and Healing Resource Guide, developed by the CMA in collaboration with IPAC, as part of the CMA's journey of truth and reconciliation. This guide enhances resources and support for Indigenous physicians and learners, and we thank the Indigenous physicians, learners, and leaders who contributed to its creation. 

The Guide is available in and in

Explore New Career Opportunities
Whether you're a recent graduate or an experienced professional, there's a position for you. From coast to coast, these roles suit a variety of qualifications and educational backgrounds. Click the link to explore these unique positions and take the next step in your medical journey!

 
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