Mainstream harm reduction practices, such as the distribution of naloxone and opioid substitution therapies, have undoubtedly proven effective in saving lives. However, their effectiveness is somewhat limited, as they mainly focus on addressing substance use behaviors and overlook the broader social and systemic factors that intertwine with substance use in Indigenous communities. For Indigenous peoples, harm reduction encompasses more than just mitigating substance-related harm; it involves confronting the deep-rooted impacts of colonization.
Indigenous harm reduction is not solely centered around substance use; rather, it embodies a holistic way of life deeply rooted in traditional knowledge systems. These systems perceive a profound interconnectedness between the spiritual realm, the natural world, and humanity. Unfortunately, the disruptive effects of colonialism have severely impacted these knowledge systems and the Indigenous way of life, resulting in ongoing repercussions for their communities.
To prioritize the health and wellness of Indigenous communities, a critical step is to decolonize policy and program environments. By actively supporting the restoration of the interconnected relationships between the spiritual world, nature, and humanity, we can genuinely address the underlying issues that contribute to substance use and actively work towards the overall well-being of Indigenous peoples.
More information in Indigenous harm reduction can be found here and in the links below: