Dr. Bernice Downey
Dr. Bernice Downey is a woman of Ojibwe and Celtic heritage, a mother and a grandmother. She is a medical anthropologist with research interests in health, health literacy and Indigenous Traditional knowledge and health/research system reform for Indigenous populations. Bernice is currently cross appointed to the School of Nursing and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences and is the Indigenous Health Lead for the Faculty of Health Science at McMaster University. Most recently, she was awarded the Heart & Stroke Foundation – Canadian Institute of Health Research – Chair in Indigenous Women’s Heart and Brain Health.
WORKSHOP TITLE : McMaster University: Indigenous Health Initiative: Decolonization in the Academy
DESCRIPTION : McMaster University, Faculty of Health Science has embarked on the development of an Indigenous Health Initiative that is situated as a response to the Truth & Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. In collaboration with community stakeholders, a strategic planning process is underway with the goal of achieving comprehensive reform in areas of student support & services, faculty leadership, research, curriculum and administration. This work is being guided by Indigenous Knowledge Holders who will oversee and inform this work from their diverse worldview, experience and wisdom. It is expected that this process will address existing systemic issues and barriers and facilitate a health science culturally safe learning experience that is conducive to addressing the health inequities of Indigenous populations in this country. Join us in an interactive discussion that can contribute to this important reform process!