The Indigenous Confluence Project

For researchers working in Indigenous territories, being effective allies requires strong, authentic relationships with Indigenous nations and their citizens. But what exactly is the connection between these relationships and “the work”, and how do we build authentic relationships if they do not already exist? We recently engaged in collaborative research with representatives from Anishnaabe and Māori nations to explore Indigenous forms of river care and protection. My presentation focuses on our research process and how relationship building was largely how we “did research”. We conducted an “Indigenous knowledge exchange”, involving visits to the communities and their rivers. We actively participated in local cultural protocols and practices, creating opportunities for cross-cultural dialogue and learning. Our process was informed by the exchanges described by Gearheard et al. 2006 and the “dialogic networks” described by Davidson-Hunt and O’Flaherty (2007). Immersive field experiences and open-minded team members were key elements of this successful exchange.