The Subject Matter Health Research Lab has created an impactful animated video titled “Beyond Stigma: Nurturing Circles of Care,” which delves into the compounded effects of colonialism and institutional racism on the experience of stigma for Indigenous peoples with opioid use disorder. The video highlights how stigma is a multifaceted issue, affecting individuals differently based on their unique circumstances. Through the story of Marie, a First Nations woman facing multiple layers of stigma during her pregnancy, the video illustrates the harsh realities of discrimination and the barriers it creates in accessing necessary healthcare. The project is informed by lived experiences and developed in partnership with clinicians and academics, ensuring a comprehensive and authentic portrayal of the challenges faced by Indigenous communities.

Endorsed and disseminated widely to both national and international audiences, “Beyond Stigma: Nurturing Circles of Care” aims to foster understanding and drive change in the healthcare system. It calls for healthcare providers to recognize the deep-seated trauma caused by colonialism and forced child separation, which has significantly eroded trust in medical institutions among Indigenous peoples. The video advocates for a healthcare system that integrates Indigenous culture, offers better family support, and eliminates the threat of child separation. By promoting respect, dignity, and compassion in patient care, the campaign seeks to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for those affected by opioid use disorder. To learn more about this initiative and how to combat stigma, visit subjectmatter.ca/circlesofcare (Canada, 2022).

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