A diverse range of Indigenous voices and perspectives have engaged and shaped SCPOR activities this fiscal year:
► The direct involvement of Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, community members and Patient Partners in the design of two new training modules to be offered by SCPOR: Indigenous Data Sovereignty and Indigenous Research Methodologies.
► Nine Indigenous trainees with continued funding until mid-2021 under the SCPOR/Indigenous Peoples’ Health Research Centre (IPHRC) Trainee Awards.
► Regular ongoing engagement with two guiding Knowledge Keepers who serve as a resource for SCPOR researchers and staff members seeking information and advice related to respectful Indigenous engagement at patient, community and organizational levels.
IREE Platform
As Canada’s first SPOR SUPPORT Unit with a
dedicated Indigenous Research and Engagement Expertise (IREE) platform, SCPOR ensures Indigenous voices, knowledges, values and rights as they relate to health research are respected, represented and inherent in all SCPOR activities, particularly in the areas of community and patient engagement.
SCPOR is fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Knowledge Keepers, who are present to provide blessings, prayer and opening remarks at the beginning of major events, orientations, training sessions and workshops to ensure the gathering is conducted in a good way. Elder Gilbert Kewistep began the new year with a pipe ceremony to bring in blessings and prayer for a healthy, productive year for all SCPOR staff members. Knowledge Keepers also contribute life stories and experiences during BRRIC training to inform attendees about the effects of trauma resulting from policies and the lack of resources for Indigenous peoples in their communities.
Researchers are encouraged to build relationships with Indigenous communities and follow cultural protocols such as providing cloth and tobacco in exchange for knowledge and participation in research projects. They have been invited to present on their research projects at Indigenous Health Advisory Council (IHAC) meetings to gain feedback from IHAC members about culturally appropriate research methods, knowledge translation activities and research design, among other things.
IREE staff provide a culturally safe environment when presenting workshops to Indigenous communities and organizations, allowing participants to ask questions and share stories in a safe space without fear of retribution or judgement.
Saskatchewan Polytechnic has worked closely with Elders throughout one La Loche-based project. Virtual reality segments being filmed will include traditional teachings and storytelling as well as Elders speaking to one’s worth and connection to culture. Elders also enabled the team to incorporate Indigenous language within the recordings.
