RECONCILIATION: MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER - APPENDICES
C-2
C.1 Indigenous Approach Historically, Western approaches to data collection within Indigenous Nations has been undertaken from the perspective of collecting information on Indigenous people rather than with Indigenous people. These historical methods of collecting data have utilized standard tools which have not always recognized Indigenous ways and practices, nor cultural diversity. TWC employed decolonized/Indigenous research methodologies that emphasized the involvement of the community in producing research rather than contributing as research subjects. These methodologies are grounded in a series of culturally competent principles and guidelines highly used among researchers conducting both qualitative and quantitative studies concerning Indigenous groups. The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous peoples’ (UNDRIP) standard of free and informed prior consent and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada’s Calls to Action for businesses and government are critical aspects of undertaking research within and with Indigenous Nations. TWC worked collaboratively with Indigenous Nations and organizations based on building respectful relationships, collaboration and engagement. The intent was to understand and build relationships as the foundation. Our methods were based on Indigenous community knowledge and protocols blended with Western facilitation techniques—using culturally appropriate methods reflecting Indigenous awareness and understanding. These methods included: • Respectful communication with Nations, communities, and organizations; and, • Providing opportunities for Nations, communities, and organizations to learn more about and get involved in the project. With respect to validating findings, summary notes were written during each interview and provided to participants afterwards for validation.
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