UBC CPD: Being People-First in Confronting Medical Colonialism: Understanding the Shame Shack and the Art of Calling In

This webinar invites health care professionals to explore what it means to be people-first while confronting medical colonialism in everyday practice. Grounded in cultural safety and humility, participants will examine how identity, power, and lived experience shape clinical interactions.

Using an attachment theory lens, the session introduces the concept of the “shame shack”—a space where defensiveness, fear, and shame can drive unintended harm, including microaggressions. Participants will explore how internal experiences, such as stress and shame responses, influence behaviour and impact patients, colleagues, and communities.

Through practical tools and real-world examples, participants will build skills to “call in” themselves and others, navigate challenging interactions with intention, and respond constructively to missteps. The session emphasizes staying grounded in one’s social location and ongoing responsibility to foster culturally safe care.

NOTE: This webinar will NOT be recorded. We encourage learners to join live.