Towards Decolonization and Indigenization of Social Work Research: Responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.14288/cjne.v40i1.196596Résumé
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.