In a landmark move toward cultural respect and reconciliation, the Saskatchewan Health Authority has officially implemented a new policy protecting Indigenous employees’ right to wear traditional hairstyles in the workplace. This groundbreaking initiative, announced earlier this week, marks a significant shift in how healthcare institutions approach Indigenous cultural expressions and identity.
The policy, developed in close consultation with Indigenous elders and community leaders, explicitly prohibits discrimination against staff members who maintain braids, long hair, or other culturally significant hairstyles. For many Indigenous peoples, hair carries profound spiritual and cultural meaning—often representing connection to ancestors, community, and personal identity.
“Our hair is our strength, our spirit, our connection to who we are,” explains Elder Mary Mosquito, who served as a key advisor during the policy development process. “For generations, Indigenous peoples have been forced to cut their hair in institutions. This policy acknowledges that painful history and says ‘no more’.”
The need for such protection stems from Canada’s troubling historical treatment of Indigenous peoples, particularly through the residential school system where children were routinely forced to cut their hair upon arrival—a practice aimed at assimilation and cultural erasure. The trauma from these experiences continues to affect communities today, making this policy particularly meaningful for many Indigenous healthcare workers.
Dr. James Running, an Indigenous physician with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, shared his personal perspective: “Throughout my career, I’ve faced subtle pressures to conform to non-Indigenous appearance standards. This policy provides clarity and protection that allows us to bring our whole selves to work while caring for patients.”
The policy implementation includes comprehensive training for managers and staff, clearly outlined complaint procedures, and accountability mechanisms to ensure enforcement. Health authority officials confirm the guidelines will apply across all facilities in the province, affecting thousands of healthcare workers.
Saskatchewan’s approach could serve as a model for other provinces and territories. Currently, inconsistent policies across Canadian healthcare systems have led to reported cases of discrimination, including instances where Indigenous healthcare workers were reprimanded or faced career limitations due to their traditional hairstyles.
“This is about more than hair—it’s about dignity, respect, and creating healthcare environments where Indigenous knowledge and practices are valued,” notes Sarah Cardinal, Indigenous Relations Director for the health authority. “When our staff feel respected, patient care improves, particularly for Indigenous communities who have historically faced barriers in healthcare settings.”
The initiative aligns with broader reconciliation efforts following the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action, which specifically address the need for culturally appropriate healthcare services and workplace policies. Health policy experts suggest that inclusive workplace practices contribute significantly to addressing the underrepresentation of Indigenous professionals in healthcare fields.
As this policy takes effect across Saskatchewan’s healthcare system, one question remains at the forefront: Will other provinces and essential service providers follow Saskatchewan’s lead in creating workplaces that truly honor Indigenous cultural expressions and identity?
