Towards Decolonization and Indigenization of Social Work Research: Responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action

Abstract

Irt response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 2015 Calls to Action, uni­versities across Canada are currently exploring ways to decolonize and lndigenize.The profession of social work, with its historical and ongoing role in the oppression ofIndigenous peoples, has a responsibility to advance and integrate Indigenous world­views for reconciliation and healing.In response to these aims, we used the World Cafe method to stimulate large-scaleconversations about the ways in which reconciliation can be honoured in one Facultyof Social Work. In the context of a research symposium over the course of two hours,we hosted 10 tables, involving 62 Indigenous and non-lndigenous students, faculty,community members, and Elders. Written notes from the table discussions were tran­scribed, coded, and thematically analyzed.We identified six major themes with respect to decolonization, Indigenization, andreconciliation: (1) social work students currently feel unequipped/unqualified to workwithin an Indigenous context; (2) there exists a critical need to integrate Indigenousknowledges and approaches into the social work curriculum; (3) power and privilegeneed to be addressed in relationship to truth; (4) respectful relationships between theacademy and Indigenous communities must be developed and nurtured; (5) Indigenousrepresentation and voice needs to be enhanced at all levels within the faculty; and (6)reconciliation must be honoured in social work research.Aligning with our desire for reconciliation, we offer nine recommendations tobegin the journey of decolonization and Indigenization in social work research, educa­tion, and practice.