(Re)claiming our bodies using a Two-Eyed Seeing approach: Health-At-Every-Size (HAES®) and Indigenous knowledge.
Monica CyrNatalie D RiedigerPublished in: Canadian journal of public health = Revue canadienne de sante publique (2021)
We originally proposed a study to examine changes in disparities in "obesity" between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadian populations, as called for in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Article 19 (2015), which calls for ongoing monitoring of disparities in health outcomes. Instead, we questioned the importance of reducing the prevalence of "obesity" as a health goal for Indigenous peoples. This critical commentary provides an overview of Canadian Indigenous populations' weight, its relationship with health outcomes, and weight stigma and discrimination, using an Indigenous feminist lens. We introduce the applicability of a Two-Eyed Seeing approach utilizing a Health-At-Every-Size (HAES®) model and Indigenous ways of knowing, as a starting point, to understand weight, health, and our bodies. A new paradigm is needed to identify and close health gaps as noted in Article 19 of the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action (2015). We respectfully call upon health professionals and public health bodies to acknowledge the harm of weight stigma and discrimination in their practice and policies, and we encourage Indigenous peoples to (re)claim and (re)vitalize body sovereignty.
Keyphrases
- public health
- healthcare
- mental health
- weight loss
- weight gain
- body mass index
- physical activity
- health information
- metabolic syndrome
- insulin resistance
- type diabetes
- health promotion
- primary care
- global health
- mental illness
- hiv aids
- skeletal muscle
- hepatitis c virus
- risk factors
- body weight
- climate change
- social support
- quality improvement