The Importance Of Aboriginal Health

Over the course of history, a question of one’s health has always been of concern. Although, as the years go by, generally the health of individuals in many countries have improved. People live longer and are better educated, especially when considering first world countries like Canada and the United States. Unfortunately, this is not the case for all individuals. Even groups of people living in first world nations suffer from heath related issues due to poor resources and neglect. Distribution and funding of resources has always been an issue, especially when considering who gets these resources and how much of it. The aboriginal people of North America are no exception from this neglect and over the years have been mistreated and unfairly
Over the course of these years, many organizations locally and on a global scale were formed to ensure that a change would be made when considering aboriginals and health. Locally, there are many different agencies’ which promote and support aboriginal health. One of these agency’s is called the “Centre for Aboriginal Student Services” and is located right here on campus at York University. While visiting this agency, questions regarding their initiative were asked to see how the problem of aboriginal health was being addressed locally. Firstly, the mission of this agency is explained as an effort to improve the health and well being of aboriginals. This is accomplished by improving healing of emotion, spirit, mind and body by the use of traditional methods. A multi disciplinary model is said to be used, as this incorporates traditional as well as western healing to try and provide the best possible needed care. Another question asked was regarding the agency and the services provided as well as the services related to natural remedies. The agency responded by presenting the many initiatives put into effect to best help aboriginal peoples. Some of these initiatives include, mental health and addiction services, diabetes education and management, psychiatric services as well as spiritual, trauma and herbal treatments. Lastly, questions regarding aboriginals and their choice to use western medication or traditional
One of these individuals is James Castello who works with the, “Centre for Aboriginal Student Services” here at York University. James is a change agent determined to help better the lives of aboriginals in the local community and someone who finds pride and love in what he does. When asked his role in the community and how he best serves it, James responded by explaining the many things he continues to do in ensuring that people in need get the help they deserve. Some of the many things James continues to do for the community is, coordinate traditional services, facilitating programs, building foundations of programs and traditional culture as well as ensuring easy access to services and recruiting healers, nurses and practitioner determined to help. James perfectly fits the role of a change agent in his efforts to better the community. He shows selflessness in his determination and efforts to improve the betterment of aboriginals in the community not only by promoting initiatives but by also being apart of them and ensuring that programs and care are available and received by any individual in need. He is determined to make a change in the world in any way he can and that’s why what he does is an essential aspect of being an agent of