Over the past 8 months, CBRS Indigenous Initiatives has been actively engaging with Indigenous perspectives to ensure their voices are central in shaping Canada’s national brain research strategy. Recognizing the historical silencing of Indigenous voices within colonial structures, CBRS acknowledges the importance of amplifying Indigenous perspectives to enrich brain research.
As CBRS aims to foster collaborative, transdisciplinary, and open approaches to brain research, Indigenous Traditional Knowledges offer invaluable insights into holistic approaches to health, emphasizing interconnectedness with nature and community.
Our Indigenous Outreach and Engagement efforts, conducted from July 2022 to March 2023, involved seven Introductory Sessions and focus groups on key Strategic Priorities. Participants included Traditional Knowledge Holders, researchers, community representatives, and health administrators, who provided valuable feedback on the current state and future potential of brain research in Canada. Together, these sessions explored Indigenous perspectives on brain and mental health, community challenges, and the integration of Indigenous Knowledges into research.
Moving forward, CBRS remains committed to ongoing engagement with Indigenous stakeholders, including plans for a workshop on Two-Eyed Seeing Through Compound Eyes in early 2024. For more information, including future introductory sessions and focus groups, email our Indigenous Initiatives Lead, Andrew Manitowabi (Mamaateshiins) at andrew.manitowabi@canadianbrain.ca.
Read our Interim Synthesis Report here.
