Asian Canadian Elder Care Summit

Canada is multicultural and ethnically diverse. Cultural identity is integral to all aspects of life and is a constitutive facet of self-identity. In 1971, the Canadian government introduced an official multiculturalism policy, and in 1982 the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms formally recognized the equality of all Canadians, on grounds including, race, ethnicity, language, and religion. However, despite this official statement of equality, many societal institutions, including health care agencies, and nursing homes have not been successful in implementing policies and practices that are sensitive to address the unique experiences and needs of Canada’ diverse population. It is evident that environments and practices that are sensitive to cultural diversity have the potential to yield culturally responsive health outcomes, hence improving quality of life of individuals. It is critical that we develop ways to address these needs.

In collaboration with S.U.C.C.E.S.S., the Human Rights Committee of the National Association of Japanese Canadians (NAJC) is hosting a summit on May 30, 2015. The purpose of this summit is to bring key stakeholder groups together for an exploratory conversation to identify critical issues in elder care for Asian Canadians in the local community and discuss the potential for collaborative strategies and action.

While respecting the cultural differences in the challenges and needs within the various Asian Canadian communities, this summit is intended to provide a forum to share our respective knowledge and best practices that can identify commonalities and enhance the potential for collective success across the communities.

Over this half-day meeting attendees will consider the benefits and challenges of creating an inter-community consortium, the common goals and strategies of such a group and to develop an appropriate action plan.

We invite you to attend along with other representatives from your community or association. A light lunch will be served. Please RSVP to Joanna Yang at joanna.yang@ubc.ca by Friday, May 15, 2015.