PRINCIPLES
The Ontario Aboriginal HIV/AIDS Strategy is governed by principles that reflect Aboriginal values and beliefs and as such must:
- Be inclusive and responsive to the diverse and diversity of needs of the Aboriginal community including; women, children, youth, elders, traditional teachers and respectful of all people regardless of status, residency, religion, gender or sexual orientation.
- Directly involve Aboriginal people who are living with HIV/AIDS in all aspects of the Strategy
- Be non-judgmental and embrace the harm reduction philosophy.
- Promote a holistic continuum of care that address, mind, body and spirit.
- Protect those who are directly impacted by HIV/AIDS and those who are particularly vulnerable including children, women, youth, prisoners and substance users and others.
- Respect an individual’s right to choose programming and services.
- Respect an individual’s privacy and confidentiality.
- Affirm the value of Aboriginal medicine and incorporate healing practices and teachings at the request of Aboriginal people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS.