The Indigenous Health Research Summit in Kahnawà:ke is showcasing the empowerment of communities in leading research initiatives catered specifically to Indigenous populations, with a focus on fostering healthier futures for generations to come.
This event commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Kahnawà:ke Schools Diabetes Prevention Project (KSDPP), which was established in 1994 following concerns raised by community elders regarding the increasing prevalence of Type 2 diabetes. Over the years, the KSDPP has been instrumental in promoting active and healthy lifestyles among children, integrating Kanien’kehá:ka cultural values with contemporary health science practices.
Furthermore, the KSDPP has played a pivotal role in fostering collaboration among researchers, educators, and community members, resulting in the development of one of the earliest Indigenous community Codes of Research Ethics. This framework has served as a blueprint for other Indigenous communities, emphasizing the importance of community-driven research approaches.
Alex McComber, a community advisor with KSDPP and associate professor at McGill University, stressed the significance of community knowledge in shaping health and wellness initiatives for the present and future generations.
The summit, which convened researchers, youth representatives, and community leaders from various regions, marked a shift towards a more inclusive and participatory research model, departing from the traditional top-down approach where academics controlled the research process.
Featuring discussions on topics ranging from cultural competency in healthcare to youth-led environmental research and traditional arts practices, the summit highlighted the importance of integrating Indigenous perspectives and values into research frameworks.
The emphasis on Indigenous-led research not only aims to improve health outcomes but also underscores the importance of self-determination and cultural preservation. By infusing Indigenous ways of knowing and being into research practices, the summit advocates for greater recognition of the strength and validity of Indigenous research methodologies.
Overall, the summit served as a platform for Indigenous health researchers in Quebec to come together, share insights, and strengthen collaborative ties, in response to the growing demand for spaces that support Indigenous-led research initiatives.
