Protecting our gifts and securing our future: Eliminating poverty among First Nations children

Abstract

Editor’s Note: The provision of health services to address the poor health status of Aboriginal people, especially children, has been rooted in a complex environment of legislation. The British North America Act in 1867 placed Aboriginal health ‘under federal authority’ but subsequent acts, accords, white papers and royal commissions have failed to solve the broad social determinants of health, or the provision of equitable, culturally sensitive services for Aboriginal children. Concerned readers are referred to an excellent previous article for further discussion (Moffatt MEK, Cook C. How can the health community foster and promote the health of Aboriginal children and youth? Paediatr Child Health 2005;10:549–552), available at . National Chief Phil Fontaine illustrates that all areas of life must be changed to make any lasting difference in the health of Aboriginal children and youth. Increased dollars alone will not improve the overall health of Aboriginal people. A comprehensive approach that addresses housing, language, education and overall cultural well-being must go hand-in-hand with increased health care spending.