Abstract
Background: Historically, research with Indigenous communities has been conducted in an unethical manner due to its foundation in western frameworks and resulting systems. Research has primarily been focused on deficit or problem-based understandings, with studies often conducted with superficial community consultation or limited consideration of tangible benefits? for the communities involved. Building trusting and respectful relationships takes time, but is central to authentic and ethical research practices when engaging with Indigenous communities. Our universities are built on colonial systems which do not always align with Indigenous community engagement and relationship building practices, therefore necessitating flexibility of alternative approaches (e.g., weaving of western and Indigenous knowledge and methodologies).
Purpose: The purpose of this presentation is 1) to map an example of how a project with a remote Aboriginal community has unfolded, 2) to describe how research approaches, assumptions and processes cohere with culturally responsive ethical research practice.
Context and content:We will demonstrate how a place-based project within a remote Aboriginal community has evolved, identifying the value of time, connection, and authenticity using a visual aid/map?. We will use examples from our experience to explain how research norms were examined, challenged and reframed to ensure an ethical and culturally responsive approach to relationship building and project development. We will explore the challenges, work arounds, and propose suggested learnings based on our experiences and reflections informed by current literature.