Bourassa, McKay-McNabb, and Hampton- Racism Sexism and Colonialism Reading

What is the main idea regarding Aboriginal women's health in Canada?

Aboriginal women in Canada have worse health than other women due to racism, sexism, and colonialism.

How do Aboriginal women's health outcomes compare to non-Aboriginal women?

Aboriginal women live shorter lives and have higher rates of diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and chronic illnesses.

What percentage of women in shelters in Saskatchewan are Aboriginal?

57% of women in shelters are Aboriginal, despite them being only 11% of the population.

What role does poverty play in the health of Aboriginal women?

Aboriginal women face more poverty and violence than any other group of women in Canada, impacting their health.

What does 'Othering' refer to in the context of Aboriginal women?

'Othering' refers to society's division of people into 'normal' and 'other,' leading to double oppression based on race and gender.

What was the impact of the Indian Act (1876) on Aboriginal women?

The Indian Act was sexist, causing women to lose their status and rights if they married non-Indians, leading to family and community breakdown.

What changes did Bill C-31 (1985) bring for Aboriginal women?

Bill C-31 allowed women to regain their status, but many were still excluded, and communities often refused to accept them.

How does cultural identity affect the health of Aboriginal women?

Cultural identity is linked to health; women connected to their culture cope better, while loss of identity leads to feelings of powerlessness and worse health.

What long-term effects has colonization had on Aboriginal women?

Colonization has caused poverty, violence, and isolation, leading many women into dangerous situations and health issues.

What are some barriers to effective health programs for Aboriginal women?

Health programs often fail because women excluded from culture are not included in planning, and research ignores those who don't fit government categories.

What are the key forces harming Aboriginal women's health?

Racism, sexism, and colonialism lower social status, reduce access to health care, and destroy cultural identity.

What is needed to improve the health of Aboriginal women in Canada?

Recognition of past harm, inclusion of women in decision-making, and health programs that respect culture and identity.

What does the term 'double oppression' mean in the context of Aboriginal women?

Double oppression refers to the compounded discrimination Aboriginal women face due to both their race and gender.

What is the relationship between identity and health for Aboriginal women?

A strong cultural identity is linked to better health outcomes; loss of identity can lead to health deterioration.

What is the significance of the term 'assimilation' in the context of the Indian Act?

Assimilation refers to the goal of making Aboriginal people disappear by stripping them of their rights and identities.

How did colonial laws affect Aboriginal women's connection to their culture?

Colonial laws led to a loss of cultural connection, which negatively impacts women's health and sense of self-worth.

What are some health issues faced by Aboriginal women due to systemic factors?

Aboriginal women face higher rates of addiction, abuse, and involvement in survival sex work due to systemic poverty and violence.

What is the bottom line regarding the health of Aboriginal women in Canada?

Aboriginal women are sicker due to historical injustices that stripped them of rights, culture, and power.