Events

WALK & RALLY: A CALL TO END RACISM IN HEALTHCARE

WHEN: February 25, 2025 at 11:00 AM
WHERE: Meet at Oodena Circle, The Forks, and walk to the Manitoba Legislative Building

Like so many others, Justin Flett’s story of survival is a testament to the healthcare system’s failures and the strength of those who refuse to be silenced. After facing discrimination in care, he now speaks out and fights for change.

Today, we bring awareness to this critical issue—his story is a call to action. We must stand together, raise our voices, and demand equitable, culturally safe healthcare for all First Nations in Manitoba!

An Elder will offer a prayer to begin the walk. The rally at the Legislative Building will feature empowering words from First Nations and grassroots leaders.

We invite the public to attend. Drums and rattles are welcome to carry our voices and prayers forward.

Let’s walk together for justice, dignity, and change!

Justin’s Story

Justin Flett, a Cree father of six from Tataskweyak Cree Nation, is fighting against racism in healthcare after a life-threatening experience of medical neglect. In January 2023, he sought emergency care for severe abdominal pain at a hospital in The Pas but was dismissed without treatment by a doctor who assumed he was hungover.

Forced to endure an 11.5-hour bus ride to Winnipeg in excruciating pain, Flett was again left untreated for hours at Seven Oaks Hospital. By the time doctors finally acted, his appendix had ruptured, leading to ongoing health issues.

Flett is now suing Manitoba health authorities, arguing that racial bias violated his Charter rights and nearly cost him his life. His case highlights the systemic racism First Nations people face in healthcare, echoing tragedies like Brian Sinclair and Joyce Echaquan.

He is demanding accountability and change.

Why Justin Flett’s Story Matters

Justin Flett’s story is a powerful example of the deadly consequences of racism in healthcare. His experience—being dismissed, denied care, and forced to fight for his own survival—reflects the systemic discrimination First Nations people continue to face when seeking medical help.

His case is important because it:

• Exposes racial bias in Canada’s healthcare system, showing how assumptions and neglect can lead to life-threatening consequences.
• Calls for accountability, demanding justice for First Nations patients who have suffered or died due to medical discrimination.
• Raises awareness, urging healthcare providers to confront their biases and commit to equitable treatment for all.
• Empowers others to speak up, ensuring that no one else has to endure what he did.

By sharing his story, Flett is shining a light on an urgent issue and pushing for real change—because no one should have to fight for their life just to be taken seriously by a doctor.