An analysis of COVID-19 funding policies in Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United States during the pandemic’s first wave has shown that creating equitable policies grounded in Indigenous knowledge requires partnership, meaningful consultation, and organisational cultural humility. A Health Equity Impact Assessment tool and an Indigenous Lens Tool were used to assess potential impacts. The major funding equity issues were: 1) unique health and service needs; 2) socioeconomic disparities; and 3) limited access to community and culturally safe health services. A lack of meaningful consultation led to a state of emergency declaration in Canada and legal disputes in the United States. New Zealand was showcased for integrating Māori perspectives. The study authors argue for a reconciliation-minded path, aligning with Truth and Reconciliation principles, the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and evolving government support.
