Grant: Travel Awards - Institute Community Support

Few studies have examined the health outcomes of induced displacement (ID) among Indigenous peoples in Canada. In 2011, Little Saskatchewan First Nation (LSFN) experienced an emergency evacuation due to a human-made flood. To date, 200 of 700 on-reserve members remain displaced and dispersed in hotels or temporary housing in the City of Winnipeg. Anecdotal reports about the health impacts of ID have emerged with an increased incidence of premature deaths, suicides, miscarriages, mental health disorders, youth involvement in gangs, marital break-ups, along with worsening of chronic illnesses. A detailed understanding of LSFN community members' experiences of ID is warranted to ensure the best interests of First Nations (FN) are protected and promoted by the Canadian health care system. An examination of the health outcomes of ID will generate recommendations for appropriate policies, programs and procedures to promote health and mitigate the negative outcomes of ID. This paper will increase the understanding of the experiences and health outcomes of ID as perceived by LSFN elders. The objectives of this paper is to: (1) describe LSFN elders experiences of ID; (2) determine LSFN elders' needs and experiences of health and social services in the context of ID; and (3) examine the policies that shape the historical, social, political, economic and cultural context that determine LSFN elders' health resiliency. Participants were recruited based on their ID experience, age status and residence. The health outcomes of ID were systematically documented and a video produced. The significance of this paper is to share knowledge of the health outcomes of ID among LSFN community members as important work as well as a characterization of needs.