Putting Words into Action: Negotiating Collaborative Research in Gitxaala

Abstract

This article is written from the vantage point o f an Indigenous scholar located in amajor research institution (UBC) about the process o f negotiating and carrying outrespectful research relationships with a First Nations community. The actual processo f consultation, accommodation, and negotiation important in establishing andgrowing a respectful research relationship between the University o f BritishColumbia and Gitxaala Nation (north coastal British Columbia), is described. Ethicalissues and procedures, methodological innovations, and considerations aboutIndigenous knowledge demonstrate transformative action for research.