Friday Focus: First Nation Inequities Continue

The challenges facing Indigenous communities in Alberta demand urgent action. We must meet head-on the barriers our Indigenous neighbours face, in healthcare generally, particularly in mental health, but also in other areas, such as employment and the legal system.

First Nations people needing treatment often leave our emergency departments without receiving it—6.8% compared to 3.7% for non-Indigenous citizens. Anti-Indigenous racism drives this disparity, with patients reporting experiences of stereotyping, inappropriate language, and dismissive attitudes from healthcare providers. The consequences can be severe—some have needed to be hospitalized after leaving untreated for serious conditions.

Mental health presents another pressing concern. Suicide rates among Indigenous youth in Alberta soar to five times higher than those of non-Indigenous youth. Historic abuse and the lack of access to culturally appropriate mental health services contribute to this alarming crisis​.

Unemployment continues to hold Indigenous people back in our province. In 2022, the unemployment rate for Indigenous peoples in Alberta was 8.6%, while non-Indigenous unemployment sat at 5.7%. Systemic racism in hiring and limited access to education deepen this divide, trapping many in a cycle of poverty and limited opportunities for upward mobility.

Alberta Liberals continue to advocate for immediate change. Alberta must expand the involvement of Indigenous people in our healthcare system, strengthen mental health supports, and focus investments toward better education and job training programs. These actions will directly help address the deep-rooted inequities that hinder the success of Indigenous people and Indigenous communities.

Together, we can drive the change that’s long overdue.