Land Acknowledgment

We acknowledge that ChiroHouse is located on the traditional, unceded, unsurrendered territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin Nation. We recognize and honor the deep connection Indigenous communities have with this land, and we reflect on the enduring impact of colonization, including the ongoing trauma of residential schools, systemic injustices, and displacement. 

As chiropractors who care for the nervous system we understand that the effects of intergenerational trauma and stress are often carried in the nervous system impacting physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. We are committed to providing a supportive and culturally sensitive space that acknowledges the role of this compounded trauma in different health challenges facing indigenous communities today. 

In alignment with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, we are dedicated to continuous learning and improving accessibility to care. 

ChiroHouse commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action for Health Numbers 18 to 24

1. Acknowledgment [CTA Number 18] - At ChiroHouse we acknowledge that the significant health disparities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, which include higher rates of infant mortality, maternal health challenges, mental health issues, addictions, chronic diseases, and limited access to appropriate healthcare services, are a direct result of the shameful colonialist policies and interventions against the well-being of Indigenous peoples and communities, including residential schools, the Sixties Scoop and other harmful practices whose impacts are still felt today.
   
   We also acknowledge that with the privilege of being a health care provider on unceded indigenous land, we are accountable in providing culturally safe care and to do our part to help close the gap in health outcomes between indigenous and non-indigenous communities. 
   

2. Increase accessibility to care [In support of CTA number 19] - At ChiroHouse, we offer prenatal and pediatric care, with a focus on supporting neurological challenges and addressing birth traumas. Research and experience have shown that chiropractic care may contribute to improved health outcomes for both mothers and children. For example, prenatal chiropractic care may promote reduced labour times with reduced need for medical intervention. Additionally, gentle chiropractic adjustments may benefit children who experience neurological or developmental challenges due to difficult births, helping to optimize nervous system function and ease symptoms.
   
   We recognize that chiropractic care is not accessible to all, especially following its removal from the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program in 2023. In response to addressing the gaps in culturally safe, pre- and perinatal care which has a profound impact on birth outcomes and overall health equity, and as part of our commitment to closing health disparities, we offer significantly reduced rates for Indigenous mothers and children in need of care. By making chiropractic care more accessible, we aim to support better maternal, infant, and child health outcomes and assist Indigenous families on their wellness journey.
   

3. Education for employees [CTA Number 24]- All employees and doctors at ChiroHouse are required to take Indigenous Cultural Safety and Humility in Canadian Healthcare Course offered by SE Health First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Program in partnership with SE Career College of Health. 
   
   The curriculum integrates principles of Indigenous cultural safety and humility, emphasizing respect, reciprocity, and relationship-building with Indigenous peoples and communities. It explores the legacy of colonization and its impact on Indigenous peoples, acknowledging the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's (TRC) calls to action as a framework for learning and action.
   
   Our objective is to engage with Indigenous knowledge and perspectives, so that everyone in our office can develop the necessary skills and attitudes to navigate intercultural interactions with sensitivity and respect, creating a more inclusive and equitable clinic.
   
   We acknowledge that decolonization is an ongoing process and we are committed to exploring educational resources on an ongoing basis so that our team can continue the learning process.