Introduction
In May, we (Drs. Melissa Walls and Joseph Gone) facilitated a small, intimate gathering of Indigenous research scholars in Pray, Montana, to discuss the significance of Indigenous Ways of Knowing in addressing health inequities and promoting health. Participants for the gathering were selected from a network of colleagues engaged in scholarship surrounding Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Indigenous research methodologies. The participants represented diverse opinions, disciplines, and Tribal Nations for comprehensive and inclusive representation of Indigenous knowledges.
The gathering was an opportunity to explore, debate, and discuss how Indigenous Ways of Knowing might (or might not) be incorporated into health sciences. It offered space to think, talk, dream, and explore the potential future of our planet from Indigenous perspectives. Our intent was for participants to leave feeling restored, energized, and supported in their work to promote Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Indigenous research methods.
Key Discussion Questions
At the gathering, participants engaged in semi-structured discussions and learned from three plenary speakers on topics including decolonizing research and navigating colonial structures while preserving cultural and personal integrity. These conversations provided insights into the challenges faced by Indigenous scholars, grappled with “thorny dilemmas” related to attempts to Indigenize the health sciences, and invited commentary on ideal ways to promote well-being and thriving among Indigenous Peoples.
More specifically, participants explored questions about the intended audience for Indigenous Ways of Knowing, the integration of Indigeneity into research, identifying Indigenous knowledges that might be appropriately included in health research, balancing respect, sharing, and protection of these knowledges, and navigating relationships between identity and research processes. The discussions also highlighted necessary conditions and institutional changes to promote this transformative work and contributed to the development of solutions and visions of self-determined futures free from the impacts of colonialism.
Lessons Learned
The gathering revealed several key themes, including identity and healing, the need to slow down, motherhood, culture, decolonization, and various forms of connection, such as with the land, each other, and allies.
Moreover, the gathering showcased how academia remains a challenging environment for Indigenous scholars, who continue to struggle against dominant systems that minimize the value of Indigenous knowledges. This highlighted the need for systemic change to create a more inclusive and supportive academic environment, ensuring that Indigenous scholars can thrive and their contributions are valued.
Next Steps
Moving forward, the momentum gained from the gathering can drive meaningful transformations. Incorporating Indigenous Ways of Knowing into our lives can guide us in cultivating right relationships with our communities, knowledge systems, values, and spirit, ultimately leading to a good life. The gathering planted a seed with the potential to bloom into something impactful. Together, alongside the participants, we will continue conversations about what comes next and the importance of legitimizing Indigenous Ways of Knowing.
The entire Ways of Knowing Symposia series will come to a close at the Facing Race National Conference on November 20 in St. Louis, MO. It will provide an opportunity for us to share insights from the Indigenous Ways of Knowing gathering, outline the next steps and calls to action for systemic change, and gather participant reactions. The closing event will also offer an opportunity for co-learning around structural innovations for more inclusive, anticolonial, and antiracist health science knowledge.
Resources
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