CIHR Network Environments for Aboriginal Health Research

What are the values and practices that make up the Bear River First Nation's (BFRN) history and current relationship to the lands and waters of Kespukwitk? How and why might participatory arts-based research methods be useful in articulating and communicating these relationships? The research provided a case study of the BFRN's efforts to exercise their treaty rights and sacred stewardship from the lands and waters of their traditional territory of Kespukwitk through the Seven Paddles: From L'sitkuk to Kejimkujik project. Using photo voice and participatory video, the research also explored youth perspectives about the value of reconnecting with their traditional lands in relation to their vision for holistic health.

Researcher: Martha Stiegman

Project Theme: Community Arts & Advocacy