One of ONA’s Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression (ARAO) ReconciliAction Working Group’s first order of business was a very important one.
The team worked tirelessly to draft ONA’s powerful Declaration for Truth and Reconciliation, outlining our actions and commitments in this important area, which was unanimously approved by the Board of Directors in September 2024.
“The declaration is an organizational priority and a crucial step in recognizing the importance of advancing truth and reconciliation as individuals, nurses and health-care professionals,” says ONA Provincial President Erin Ariss. “It also aims to build cultural humility, competence and safety. While contributing to the well-being of Indigenous peoples, the declaration develops a meaningful partnership with the First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in our organization and workplaces. I strongly encourage all members to read this very important document.”
As part of ONA’s Strategic Plan priority, Everyone Included, ONA launched a four-year ARAO Action Plan in 2022 to challenge systemic racism, build infrastructure and integrate ARAO practices into every level of our union. Priority 1, Reconciliation, assists ONA in challenging anti-Indigenous racism, building cultural competency and cultural safety, as well as supporting Indigenous members, elected leaders and staff.
How to reach the ARAO Team
The working group is linked to our broader ARAO Team, which was integrated into the organization nearly three years ago. That team is composed of Manager Kieran Maxwell, ARAO lead consultant of reconciliation Rose LeMay and three specialists: Patrick Mazambi, who supports Regions 1, 2, and 5; Anuradha Lokre, who works with Regions 3 and 4; and Brigitte Goar, who supports the ReconciliAction Working Group.
Any questions or concerns? The ARAO Team can be reached via email at ARAO@ona.org.
Visit our website for more information on Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression.
