Restorative Practices Program: A Historic Step Forward for CPSM
June 21 is Indigenous Peoples Day and this year, we are commemorating it as a pivotal moment in CPSM’s history.
Our commitment to preventing anti-Indigenous racism within the medical profession is a dedication we will uphold long after this month; it is an everyday commitment.
Earlier this month, CPSM marked the launch of the new Restorative Practices Program (RPP) with a traditional pipe ceremony. The ceremony was a powerful and meaningful reminder of the deep traditions that will guide this important work.
The RPP is the first of its kind within a medical regulatory body in Canada and is one of seven recommended actions CPSM has committed to implementing following our apology to First Nations and Inuit people in 2023. It represents a significant step toward reconciliation, with a focus on healing, restoring relationships, and preventing future harm.
“The RPP is unique because it incorporates Indigenous philosophies in collaboration with regulatory approaches.” – Tara Myran, Knowledge Translation and Mobilization Specialist
We were honoured to witness Elder Derek Maytwayashing conduct a sacred pipe ceremony, held to symbolize a connection between the human and spirit worlds, ensuring that the Restorative Practices Program is guided by Indigenous philosophies from the start. The ceremony concluded with a feast, which was blessed by Elder Derek, representing a new beginning for generations to come.
Members of the CPSM Indigenous Advisory Circle, Council members, and staff gathered at the Assiniboia Residential School Memorial Site to inaugurate the RPP. We were joined by representatives from Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care, Ongomiizwin – Indigenous Institute of Health and Healing, Southern Chiefs Organization Inc., Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, Shared Health, Doctors Manitoba, and the Canadian Medical Association.
The ceremony included an introduction to the RPP team, comprising Tara Myran, Knowledge Translation and Mobilization Specialist, Dr. Jayson Stoffman, medical consultant, and Dr. Sonja Bruin, Assistant Registrar for the Quality department. Four girls from the Strong Warrior Girls Drumming Group opened the ceremony with the Boozoo Aniin, Bear, Wolf, and Sabe songs representing the four directions.
Dr. Lisa Monkman, chair of the Indigenous Advisory Circle, spoke about the significance and importance of Indigenous knowledge and teachings for restoring humanity and trust when harm has been done.
Dr. Ainslie Mihalchuk, Registrar and CEO, acknowledged the legitimate and reported impacts racism has on the health outcomes for First Nations, Metis and Inuit people. She reiterated CPSM’s lasting commitment to addressing anti-Indigenous racism in medical practice in Manitoba.
The RPP is also an integral part of CPSM’s new Standard of Practice - Practicing Medicine to Eliminate Anti-Indigenous Racism, effective on June 21.
Learn more about the Restorative Practice Program
Learn more about CPSM’s commitment to 7 recommended actions
Photos by Holly McLeod Photography
