NURS11171 - Health History and Culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Assignment Answer

Introduction

The history of Australia is intertwined with the story of its Indigenous peoples, who have inhabited the continent for over 65,000 years (Dussart & Poirier, 2017). This essay discusses the profound impacts of colonization, racism, and White privilege on the health, history, and culture of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. It is structured into three major components. It begins by exploring the historical context of colonialism, its connections to socioeconomic determinants of health, and health disparities, using examples from a relevant scenario (Crowe et al., 2017). In addition, it suggests a decolonization strategy that addresses racism and White privilege within the context of the scenario. Lastly, it identifies the barriers to culturally appropriate care in the case and makes recommendations for future healthcare providers.

Impacts of colonisation

Colonization began in Australia with the arrival of British immigrants in the late 18th century, most notably with Captain James Cook's landing in 1770 (Johnson et al., 2021). It is a complicated historical and social process whereby one group of people, typically from a foreign power or culture, seizes control of another population and its surroundings (Johnson et al., 2021; Crowe et al., 2017). The repercussions of colonization extend well beyond the original era of rule and usually have long-term effects on the social, economic, cultural, and health aspects of the colonized society (Dudgeon et al., 2022). Cook's journey marked the beginning of British claims to the Australian continent, which paved the way for succeeding waves of immigration (Johnson et al., 2021). This period saw the loss of Indigenous territories, often by violent and coercive tactics, as well as the imposition of Western standards, governance structures, and legal systems on Indigenous peoples (Berry et al., 2018). The forced assimilation of Indigenous traditions into the dominant Western framework proved to be one devastating component of colonization in Australia (Elias et al., 2021). This loss of cultural connection had resulted in deep psychological and emotional implications for Indigenous peoples (Dorrian et al., 2017).

The diverse effects of colonization on Indigenous Australians' health and wellbeing are inextricably linked with disruptions to the social determinants of health (Menzies, 2019). Examining the case situation, Jim's journey serves as a poignant illustration of how colonization disrupts these determinants. His desire to continue his studies pushed him to leave his distant Indigenous community, where members traditionally found employment during the cattle mustering season (Carson et al., 2020). Jim’s move to Cairns for educational pursuits and work underscores the restrictions in economic opportunity and access to quality education that exist in Indigenous communities. The loss of traditional lands disrupts the social determinants of one’s health by severing the connection between Indigenous peoples and their ancestral territories (Altman, 2018). Moreover, it can be said that this movement of Jim to distant land also reflects a broader trend in which Indigenous groups commonly face strong impediments to education and employment, directly stemming from historical factors associated with colonization (Altman, 2018). Jim's story exemplifies the complex connection between colonial and socioeconomic determinants of health, emphasizing the critical need for comprehensive measures to address these long-standing inequities (Lamb et al., 2020).

Jim's experiences highlight the persistent legacy of colonization in health disparities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. For instance, Jim's economic struggles while attending TAFE highlight economic disparities that Indigenous Australians often face due to historical economic exclusion and limited access to employment opportunities. Jim had to work 20 hours per week as a labourer to fund housing and other daily expenditures, but non-Indigenous students might not have to experience the same financial challenges. In addition, Jim's experience of social isolation and discrimination upon his return to his village exemplifies the psychological and social consequences of colonization (Lamb et al., 2020). These experiences can contribute to mental health issues, which is a considerable disparity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities (McNamara et al., 2018). Therefore, the example of Jim how colonization has disturbed social determinants of health such as economic opportunities and access to quality education, leading to significant gaps in health and well-being between Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations.

Emergence of racism and moving forward

Racism is a complex and extensive system of prejudice, discrimination, and power that upholds uneven opportunities and treatment based on race or ethnicity (Markwick et al., 2019). Jim's experience encapsulates the essence of racism as he is subjected to hurtful names such as "lazy good for nothing Abbo" and "Jimmy Blacksmith." The use of such derogatory language is an overt manifestation of racism, highlighting how Indigenous individuals are unfairly marginalized and devalued solely. Jim is falsely accused of stealing, which illustrates racism's insidious nature (Markwick et al., 2019). When equipment from the equipment shed starts to disappear, he is the main suspect. The damaging practice of racial profiling, in which people are singled out and targeted based on their color or ethnicity, is exemplified by this baseless claim (Markwick et al., 2019). On the other hand, white privilege, which is entwined with racism, is also made clear by Jim's situation. It alludes to the undeserved benefits that White people frequently receive in society, mostly as a result of their racial status (Carson et al., 2020). Jim's scenario reflects a power dynamic in which Jim's coworkers who appear to be non-Indigenous, feel entitled to make racist remarks without encountering equal discrimination or repercussions (McNamara et al., 2018; Dorrian et al., 2017). This demonstrates how White people practice racism without experiencing the same level of scrutiny or receiving negative feedback, which amplifies the difficulties faced by Indigenous people like Jim (McNamara et al., 2018).

Decolonizing healthcare is an essential step in addressing the historical injustices and inequities faced by Indigenous populations. One impactful approach is the integration of Indigenous-led healthcare initiatives (Goolmeer et al., 2022). This approach promotes the voices as well as abilities of Indigenous healthcare professionals and community leaders in influencing healthcare policies and practices (Johnson et al., 2021). To start with, Indigenous peoples should be actively included in decision-making processes and governance structures in healthcare systems. This includes appointing Indigenous people to boards, committees, and leadership positions in healthcare institutions (Goolmeer et al., 2022). Their first-hand knowledge and cultural insights are crucial in ensuring that healthcare treatments are culturally sensitive and responsive to Indigenous requirements (Johnson et al., 2021). Another crucial aspect of this approach is the incorporation of Indigenous healing practices and traditional knowledge into mainstream healthcare (Bruno et al., 2022). Recognizing and respecting Indigenous healing practices, which frequently emphasize holistic well-being and community-based treatment, can result in more effective and culturally appropriate healthcare outcomes (Dudgeon et al., 2022).

Preparation for professional practice

Racial Discrimination and Stigmatization

Jim faces racial discrimination and derogatory comments while working as a laborer and during his apprenticeship. Racist behavior by his coworkers not only hurts his psychological well-being but also creates an environment in which he feels socially alienated (Markwick et al., 2019). This widespread discrimination obstructs culturally appropriate care by propagating stereotypes and bias, hindering trust between healthcare providers and Indigenous patients (Carson et al., 2020).

Unjust Accusation and Criminalization

The unfounded accusation of theft against Jim when tools go missing from the equipment shed presents a considerable barrier (Dorrian et al., 2017). This incident exemplifies how Indigenous people can be unfairly criminalized and become targets of racial profiling (Cunneen, 2019). When Indigenous patients encounter healthcare practitioners who possess biases or hold biased ideas, their willingness to seek care or communicate openly with healthcare professionals is harmed (Cunneen, 2019).In order to guarantee culturally appropriate care and overcome the barriers indicated in the scenario, the healthcare providers might take the following strategies in their future practice

Anti-Discrimination Policies and Reporting Mechanisms

The healthcare institutions should establish explicit anti-discrimination policies and reporting procedures in place. These policies should be communicated and educated to all employees, and healthcare providers should be encouraged to report occurrences of racism or discrimination (Dudgeon et al., 2023). Responses to such reports must be timely and appropriate in order to hold individuals accountable and promote a culture of inclusivity and respect within healthcare facilities.

Cultural Competence Training

To better comprehend the diverse backgrounds and needs of Indigenous patients, healthcare workers should get extensive cultural competence training (Jongen et al., 2018). This training should include instruction on the historical and contemporary realities of Indigenous populations, with a focus on the effects of racism and colonization on health and well-being (Jongen et al., 2018). By developing cultural competence, healthcare providers can foster trust and create safe spaces for Indigenous patients.

Community Engagement

Collaborating with Indigenous communities and cultural liaisons can aid in the improvement of culturally appropriate care (Dorrian et al., 2017). These interactions can assist in bridging cultural gaps, advocating for patients' interests, and improving communication between healthcare providers and Indigenous patients (MHFA, 2014). Improved patient-centered and culturally aware care can be possible by collaborating with Indigenous communities and including community people in healthcare decision-making (MHFA, 2014).

Trauma-Informed Care

Understanding the historical pain faced by Indigenous peoples is essential. Realizing how historical injustices can impact people's mental and emotional health, healthcare professionals should adopt trauma-informed therapy modalities (Jongen et al., 2018; Dorrian et al., 2017). The establishment of trauma-informed healthcare facilities can help to mitigate the effects of racism and discrimination (MHFA, 2014).

Conclusion

In conclusion, this essay has investigated the profound effects of colonization, racism, and White privilege on the health, history, and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. It highlighted the disruption of socioeconomic determinants of health, persistence of health inequities, and the prevalence of racism and White privilege in the scenario offered. In addition, the essay recommended techniques to decolonizing healthcare as well as activities for future professional practice. Addressing these past injustices is critical to ensuring equitable treatment and establishing a path toward reconciliation and cultural sensitivity in the healthcare system.

Reference List 

(Please commence the reference list on a new page)

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Berry, K. A., Jackson, S., Saito, L., & Forline, L. (2018). Reconceptualising water quality governance to incorporate knowledge and values: Case studies from Australian and Brazilian Indigenous communities. Water Alternatives 

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Crowe, R., Stanley, R., Probst, Y., & McMahon, A. (2017). Culture and healthy lifestyles: A qualitative exploration of the role of food and physical activity in three urban Australian Indigenous communities. Australian And New Zealand Journal Of Public Health , 41(4), 411-416. 

Cunneen, C. (2019). Criminalisation and Policing in Indigenous Communities. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Relations . 

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McNamara, B. J., Banks, E., Gubhaju, L., Joshy, G., Williamson, A., Raphael, B., & Eades, S. (2018). Factors relating to high psychological distress in Indigenous Australians and their contribution to Indigenous–non‐Indigenous disparities. Australian And New Zealand Journal Of Public Health , 42(2), 145-152.

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