Why the White Plague Reigns: A Nurse of European Background’s Reflections on Tuberculosis Among Indigenous Peoples in Saskatchewan

Abstract

Tuberculosis is nearly eliminated in non-Indigenous Peoples in Canada yet remains a public health crisis for many Indigenous Peoples in this country. Nurses play a key role in TB elimination efforts for Indigenous Peoples in Canada and must do the work to learn how historical events and wrongdoings have led to the disproportionate TB burden many Indigenous Peoples face. We must understand the impact of these historical events and actively move towards truth and reconciliation if we hope to ever bridge the health equity gaps in this country and eliminate TB. Like many others, I did not know the truth until I began to ask the questions.
As a tuberculosis registered nurse (TB RN) of European descent caring for the Indigenous population with TB in Saskatchewan, I have had some profound experiences. I will explore some of these encounters and the factors that affect TB elimination in Canada through my reflective journey.