The Weight of a Smile: Stories of Survival and Healing | Sabina Rajkumar | TEDxMcMasterU

Historical Context & Social Impact - Sri Lanka experienced a brutal civil war lasting nearly three decades, from 1983 to 2009, following independence from British rule in 1948 [1] - Discriminatory laws, such as the Sinhala Only Act in 1956, systematically marginalized Tamil communities, leading to escalating ethnic tensions [1] - Black July in 1983 marked the beginning of the civil war, resulting in the deaths of at least 3,000 innocent Tamil people and the displacement of 150,000 [1] - Approximately 500,000 Tamil people left Sri Lanka due to the violence and organized state-sanctioned violence [1] Healthcare & Community Well-being - Despite medical advancements, some communities still struggle for basic quality of care, exemplified by the disproportionate impact of HIV on indigenous communities [2] - While medications like PREP (99% HIV reduction), PEP, and Doxyep exist, barriers to trust and access hinder their effectiveness in indigenous communities [2] - Indigenous communities have experienced colonization, the 60s scoop, residential schools, and policies that strip them of their land, identity, and tradition [2] - Healing happens with communities, not to them, requiring services that reflect their values, knowledge, and languages [2][3] Moving Forward & Advocacy - The focus should shift from mere survival to creating a future where communities can thrive, requiring justice and healing [1][2][3] - Rebuilding trust requires listening, accountability, and consistent effort, especially when no one is watching [4] - Allies are needed to follow the lead of indigenous communities, rather than directing them [5] - Hope and action must go hand in hand to create a future where more communities can thrive [7][8]