This September, the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) joins communities across BC in recognizing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Awareness Month. FASD is a lifelong condition that affects the brain and body of people who were exposed to alcohol before birth. At FNHA, our focus is on supporting First Nations families with culturally safe, evidence-based services that help with prevention, early intervention, and building healthy families.
This year's theme, "Everyone Plays a Part, Take Action!" emphasizes how we can all play a role and responsibility in preventing FASD and supporting those families affected by it. One grassroots movement that has really uplifted FASD awareness during this month is the "Red Shoes Rock" campaign, which uses encourages people to wear red shoes as a visual reminder of FASD.
By participating, you can help spread awareness and show solidarity with individuals and families impacted by a FASD diagnosis. By talking about how alcohol consumption during pregnancy can lead to lifelong challenges for children, we can help support prevention and early intervention for FASD.
What can I do to take action?
Take the first step—in your red shoes if you wish— by educating yourself and others about FASD. Share information within your community and throughout social media platforms by using hashtags associated with the campaign such as #RedShoesRock. Additionally, if outreach and education are a part or your work, consider reaching out to local schools or health care providers to offer educational sessions that highlight the importance of avoiding alcohol during pregnancy.
If you are a caregiver of someone who may have FASD, or are supporting somebody who is, the FNHA can help. Our FASD program supports the development of culturally appropriate, evidence-based prevention, promotion, and early-intervention programs related to FASD. Using a home-visitation model, the FNHA currently funds service providers to come to the homes of FASD families to provide information and guidance.
Remember: every step taken—whether it's wearing red shoes, taking the time to read a post or resource, or sharing educational resources—plays a part in building a healthier future for all.
Additional Resources
CanFASD
The Canada Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Research Network (CanFASD) is a collaborative, interdisciplinary research network, with collaborators, researchers and partners across Canada.
Red Shoes Rock
Red Shoes Rock is a global awareness campaign giving voice and support to those affected by prenatal alcohol exposure
If you're seeking additional resources, please refer to the Guidelines for Talking and Writing About Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. It is designed to help individuals discussing and writing about FASD and related issues to use consistent language, statistics, and framing.
