A national initiative is underway to collaboratively develop an Indigenous Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Framework that will guide assessment, diagnosis, and support in ways that are culturally grounded, strength-based, and community-informed. This work brings together Indigenous communities, families, clinicians, and organizational partners in a shared effort to advance more equitable and respectful approaches to FASD care.
The project is led by the University of Alberta and the Canada FASD Research Network alongside community partners. The project is financially supported by a University of Calgary One Child Every Child Strategic Catalyst grant, as well as funding from the Yukon Government and Canada Northwest FASD Partnership. Titled Co-creating a National Indigenous FASD Framework in Canada, the initiative is Indigenous-led and grounded in principles of collaboration, respect, and reciprocity.
About the project
The project is committed to honouring distinct voices, experiences, and ways of knowing rather than taking a pan-Indigenous approach. The research team is engaging in dialogues with community members across the country to co-create a framework. We are prioritizing relational connection, reflection, and shared learning by listening deeply, taking guidance from community, and ensuring that Indigenous knowledges are respected and uplifted.
Why is this important?
FASD affects children, families, and communities across Canada. FASD frameworks are typically shaped strictly by EuroWestern medical and clinical perspectives. For many Indigenous peoples, experiences of FASD care are shaped by stigma, shame, racism and discrimination in health systems, as well as approaches that do not reflect Indigenous worldviews, cultures, or strengths. There is a need for approaches to FASD assessment, diagnosis and support that are culturally safe, respectful, and community-driven.
Visiting Whitehorse
Melissa Tremblay, CanFASD’s Indigenous Advisor, and Audrey McFarlane, Director of Strategic Partnerships and Initiatives, recently travelled to Whitehorse, Yukon, to share information about the project with interested organizations, communities, and individuals. This visit marked the initial in-person engagement for the initiative, with additional sessions and opportunities for participation planned both virtually and in person over the coming months.
Pictured: Audrey and Melissa presenting on the project in Whitehorse.
Pictured: Melissa with some of the session participants.
How to get involved
The project team invites individuals, communities, and organizations to contribute by:
- Sharing how you would like to participate in the engagement and dialogue process.
- Identifying key considerations and values you feel are important to include in the framework.
- Provide feedback about how Yukon perspectives will be represented in the national framework.
For further information or to participate, please contact info@canfasd.ca. Inquiries may also be directed to Melissa Tremblay, Project Principal Investigator, at mkd@ualberta.ca.