Great Lakes Seminar Series: Bridging Western and Indigenous knowledges through University-Indigenous Community research partnerships: Sharing guidance from the “Seasons of Research” Framework

This seminar provides guidance on creating and navigating the pathway to equitable, inclusive research partnerships. What is considered to be ‘normal’ research is in the midst of transformation as participatory, community-engaged research is no longer the exception but the expectation. With the realization that a diversity of stakeholders, rights holders, and research sponsors require more than can be accomplished by the solo investigator, how might one engage in this work in a good way? In this talk, I begin by explaining the term ‘bridging’ as an adaptable/adoptable concept and practice between Western and Indigenous knowledge systems. Then, following a brief description of my research foundations in fish, risk, and health, I outline our current research landscape with/by/as the Anishinaabe Ojibwa. As an example, I emphasize one project in particular that relies on guidance provided by the “Seasons of Research” framework, created in partnership with the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Lake Superior Band of Ojibwa. In this socio-ecological systems research project (NSF AWARD #2009258), we are examining tribal landscape system (TLS) dynamics impacted by anthropogenic toxic contamination and climate-related changes. I conclude by proposing future directions and good relations for strengthening research partnerships as a shared priority commitment.