A Persistent Spirit: Towards Understanding Aboriginal Health in British Columbia

S. Barry Cottam is the editor and publisher of SSHARE and a historical
consultant in Ottawa.

This volume includes contributions by both aboriginal and non-aboriginal
writers. The book covers a broad range of issues having to do with
aboriginal health in British Columbia. Ethno-historical information is
given on pre-contact populations and on the effects of culture contact
on health. There is a discussion of the significance of land to the
health of aboriginal peoples, and of the difficulties in collecting and
interpreting vital statistics on aboriginal health. The reader is
informed of culturally relevant responses to diabetes through the Haida
Gwaii Diabetes Project. A tour of the Cowichan Health Centre sheds light
on the processes used to build healthy communities. A compelling case is
made that mainstream helping professions perpetuate colonization and
disempowerment.

This gathering of statistical discussions, ethno-historical accounts,
and personal narratives should appeal to professionals and
nonprofessionals with an interest in Native studies and in health and
related issues.