‘Reconciliation is a long journey’: Reflections one year after the CMA’s apology to Indigenous Peoples

Press Release

September 10, 2025

Nearly one year ago, the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) apologized for its role, and the role of the medical profession, in past and ongoing harms to First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in the health system.

Reflecting on the past year, I understand now more than ever that reconciliation is a long journey. The ceremony to deliver the apology — held in Victoria, BC, on the traditional territory of the lək̓ʷəŋiʔnəŋ speaking people of Songhees and Xwsepsum Nations — marked a new beginning for the medical community, for physicians across the country and for me personally.

On Sept. 18, 2024, I was humbled to hear from Indigenous Survivors about their experiences. They shared horrific stories about the harms they have experienced in Canada’s health care system.

These harms, which were reflected in the CMA’s apology and formal ceremony, include the devastating impacts of Indian hospitals, forced medical experimentation, forced sterilization, child apprehensions and systemic racism, neglect and abuse.

Their experiences have stayed with me. Their words continue to ring true as the CMA works toward reconciliation.

I was also honoured to be invited as one of only three non-Indigenous witnesses to a ceremony at Mungo Martin House in Thunderbird Park on the grounds of the Royal BC Museum. The stories shared were moving tributes by Indigenous Peoples, highlighting their strength and resiliency in facing challenges. This dialogue also provided an important opportunity to listen, learn and reflect. Hearing from Indigenous community members in the Kwakwaka’wakw big house underscored the importance of building relationships grounded in humility, honesty and reciprocity.

While the apology to Indigenous Peoples was an important first step by the medical community, reconciliation requires action. Our commitment to reconciliation is unwavering.  We understand reconciliation requires confronting institutional discomfort and creating space for Indigenous leadership and perspectives — voices that have long been marginalized.

One year after the apology, we continue the work before us, with each step of significant importance. Building trust is a process, and we continue to learn from Indigenous Peoples and our Indigenous colleagues and friends.

As I reflect on the pace of change and on the 10-year anniversary of the release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Final Report and 94 Calls to Action, I ask myself if we’re meeting this moment with enough urgency. With his permission, I will quote former CMA president and now Indigenous Advisor in Residence and Indigenous Guiding Circle member, Dr. Alika Lafontaine:

“Reconciliation is a long-term commitment that changes the world for the better. First Nation, Inuit and Métis Peoples expect progress as the CMA does its part in carrying reconciliation in health care forward. With the guidance of the Indigenous Guiding Circle, an expanding Indigenous health team within the CMA and Indigenous partnerships we’ve established, the CMA continues on the path of reconciliation today and into the far future.”

Learn more about the CMA’s work toward reconciliation

Dr. Margot Burnell
CMA president

IHT4