Canadian dietetic education and training actions to support Indigenization, decolonization, and reconciliation

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Education
• Indigenous Studies

Background:

• Dietetic education programs in Canada are increasingly focused on Indigenization, decolonization, and reconciliation.
• These initiatives aim to address historical inequities and promote culturally safe practices within the profession.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document current activities in Canadian dietetic education and training programs related to Indigenization, decolonization, and reconciliation.
• To identify barriers and necessary supports for advancing these principles in dietetic education.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional online survey was administered to all Canadian dietetic education and training programs (February-May 2022).
• The survey included 34 questions assessing program and institutional actions, barriers, and needed supports.
• Descriptive statistics and deductive coding were used to analyze the data.

Main Results:

• 20 out of 29 (69%) dietetic programs completed the survey.
• Program-level activities included adding Indigenous content to curricula and cultural immersion opportunities.
• Institutional activities focused on recruiting and supporting Indigenous students and staff, and providing cultural safety training.

Conclusions:

• This study provides a baseline of Indigenization, decolonization, and reconciliation activities in Canadian dietetic education.
• Programs should evaluate activities, ensure a comprehensive approach rooted in Indigenous principles, and advocate for change.
• Overcoming systemic barriers requires collaborative action and strong dietetic leadership support.