Indigenous peoples have a rich history of resilience, knowledge, and connection to community and land. Yet when it comes to disability, Indigenous individuals and families often face additional barriers to accessing support, resources, and equitable opportunities. Understanding the unique experiences of Indigenous peoples in the disability sector is essential for creating meaningful change and building inclusive systems.
This article explores the intersection of Indigeneity and disability, highlights some of the challenges Indigenous peoples face, and shares resources and pathways for support, particularly within British Columbia.
The Intersection of Indigeneity and Disability
In Canada, Indigenous peoples (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit) experience disability at significantly higher rates than the non-Indigenous population. This is partly due to the impacts of colonization, systemic discrimination, intergenerational trauma, poverty, and barriers to healthcare.
Disability among Indigenous peoples is often compounded by
- limited access to culturally safe healthcare and services
- higher rates of chronic illness, injury, and mental health challenges
- discrimination within both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities
For many Indigenous families, disability is not viewed as something to fix, but as one part of a person’s whole being, someone who still holds value and purpose within their community. Recognizing and respecting this perspective is key to offering appropriate support.
Challenges Indigenous Peoples Face in the Disability Sector
Indigenous peoples living with disabilities may encounter unique challenges, including
Geographic Barriers
Many Indigenous communities are in rural or remote areas, where access to medical care, therapists, and assistive technology is limited. Traveling to urban centers for care can be expensive and stressful.
Cultural Invisibility
Disability programs and policies are often designed without input from Indigenous peoples, making them less relevant or even inaccessible. Some Indigenous families avoid mainstream services because they do not feel culturally respected or understood.
Stigma and Discrimination
Discrimination based on both Indigeneity and disability, sometimes called double discrimination, can make it harder to access jobs, housing, education, and healthcare.
Jurisdictional Confusion
Disputes over whether the federal or provincial governments are responsible for funding specific disability supports have left many Indigenous families without timely help.
Strengths and Resilience
Despite these challenges, Indigenous communities continue to demonstrate incredible strength, resilience, and creativity in supporting their members with disabilities. Many communities integrate traditional knowledge and practices with modern support to care for all their members.
Indigenous-led organizations and leaders are advocating for change, creating culturally appropriate programs, and helping Indigenous youth and adults with disabilities thrive.
Resources and Supports
Several organizations in British Columbia and Canada work specifically at the intersection of Indigenous identity and disability. They offer advocacy, information, and programs to support individuals and families.
In British Columbia
BC Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS)
A national Indigenous charitable organization based in BC. BCANDS provides advocacy, resources, and disability and health related programs for Indigenous individuals and families. They also administer the Indigenous Disability Canada programs and host an annual Indigenous Disability Awareness Month in November.
First Nations Health Authority (FNHA)
FNHA provides health services to First Nations in BC, including mental health and wellness supports.
Inclusion BC
While not Indigenous specific, Inclusion BC collaborates with Indigenous communities on inclusion and disability issues.
National Resources
Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC)
Advocacy and programs addressing Indigenous women’s and girls’ rights, including those with disabilities.
