Eugenia Oviedo-Joekes

Meet SPPH REDI Leader: Eugenia Oviedo-Joekes

In this REDI Leader spotlight, we speak with Eugenia Oviedo-Joekes, Professor at the School of Population and Public Health.

Tell us about your background.

I was born in Córdoba, Argentina, a city known for its sense of humor, a university founded in 1613, and local music that fills the streets. Centuries of colonization and migrations had made us very mixed, although as a kid, I regretted not being blond and blue-eyed like my mother, who left the country when I was four years old running away from the dictatorship. As in many big cities in South America, my home town is marked by inequities and violence. I grew up in alert mode, faking courage and speaking up. But also drinking mate, listening to local bands, discussing philosophy. Yes, on Sundays we went to watch our football team. I moved to Spain on my own to do my PhD, and then to Canada with my two dogs, looking for work, avoiding the US. I am so grateful for the incredible gifts I received from my family, my culture. I would have not survived without the indomitable sense of humor instilled by my father, the unconsolable need to know more from my mother, and the endless love of my siblings.

What motivates you to engage in REDI work?

Life is already challenging, and people are suffering without the added burden of the establishments shutting down or prohibiting essential services that could transform the lives of diverse and minority groups, as well as women and children.

On the other hand, working with or for diverse communities brings a wealth of ideas for developing research questions with community value and creative solutions to problems. Engaging in REDI also gives me the opportunity to reflect on my past, my history, and change as I learn more.

Can you share a project or research you’ve been involved in that promotes REDI?

REDI is something we all strive for, though it doesn’t mean we always get it right. Our work involves supporting folks who use substances and face significant social and health challenges, compounded by heavy stigma. Many of our clients have limited autonomy in their treatment choices. To address this, a pilot program allowed them to take injectable opioid medications home, reducing their need to visit the clinic three times a day. To highlight this initiative, we co-created two knowledge translation outputs with participants, collaborating with a professional photographer. The first booklet shares their stories through photos and letters, advocating for the continuation of the take-home program. The second, created by a client partner and an ethnographer, serves as a guide for new participants, offering safety tips and essential information from the clients’ perspective. All client partners were compensated for their time and retained ownership of the photos. For more information, please visit this website.

What role do you see yourself playing in improving REDI in population and public health?

My role in enhancing REDI in population and public health is to continue committed to learning and reflecting, as we move forward together. Making the REDI aspects of health research visible and using my place to work towards reducing stigma towards people who use drugs.

What are some challenges you’ve faced in your REDI work, and how have you overcome them?

One of the most disappointing moments for our team occurred after we completed the first randomized clinical trial demonstrating that injectable diacetylmorphine was more effective than oral methadone for individuals struggling with opioid use disorder. Despite the compelling evidence and the community’s need, the authorities did not support the treatment, and the injectable clinic was shut down. Diacetylmorphine was not licensed in Canada, but a similar opioid, hydromorphone, was. Consequently, we conducted a non-inferiority trial comparing diacetylmorphine to hydromorphone to offer a safe, medically prescribed injectable opioid alternative. To advocate for continuation of care, we established a community advisory board consisting of researchers, healthcare providers, leaders, clinicians, community members from diverse groups, and policymakers. Today, both injectable medications are licensed in Canada for opioid use disorder.

What advice do you have for those interested in getting involved in REDI initiatives?

Participating in REDI initiatives is extremely rewarding. It opens opportunities to enhance your research, workplace, and personal life. You’ll discover new and interesting readings, both old and contemporary, and may begin rethinking how you discuss your findings concerning race or gender. It will expand your perspectives and enrich your studies. Your participation will also encourage others to start or continue their own journeys. You’ll encounter people with incredible stories that will inspire you and be a shining light in the darkest times.