Toward a successful shared future for Canada

Research insights from the knowledge systems, experiences and aspirations of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples

Executive summary

Canada has begun to chart a path toward reconciliation, toward establishing and maintaining respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples are also making ever stronger strides toward self-determination—the right to freely pursue their economic cultural, and social development, and govern their affairs.

At this critical and promising juncture, the social sciences and humanities are playing tremendous roles in contributing knowledge and talent that Canada needs for a strong, shared future among Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.

This report summarizes findings of research projects and related dialogue that address the question “How are the experiences and aspirations of Aboriginal Peoples in Canada essential to building a successful shared future?” The question frames one of six future challenge areas identified through the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council’s (SSHRC) Imagining Canada’s Future initiative.

This report draws on the findings of 28 knowledge synthesis reports, and insights from exchanges between researchers, graduate students, and leaders from Indigenous communities and the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. The knowledge syntheses were funded through an open call for proposals launched in 2016, and aimed to identify key strengths and gaps in current knowledge, as well as recommendations for policy and practice.

The findings are highlighted under the following six themes:

• Indigenous Research: Ethics, Knowledge Systems and Methods
• Arts, Language and Culture
• Teaching and Learning
• Community and Social Well-Being
• Economic Self-Determination and Indigenous Business
• Self-Governance, Indigenous Law and Resource Rights

While the insights presented do not cover all aspirations, experiences and knowledge systems of Indigenous peoples in Canada, the research and perspectives summarized in this report shed light on several critical and emerging issues related to Indigenous experiences and understandings, and the conduct of research by and with Indigenous peoples. These insights may guide research agendas, practices and policies in multiple sectors and Indigenous communities.

The findings suggest that positive changes are underway at both community and institutional levels regarding the rights and well-being of Indigenous peoples. Research discussed demonstrates, for instance, that progress is being made on revitalization of Indigenous languages and legal orders, reform of educational curricula, and Indigenous models of business that advance self-determination goals. Findings show, however, that progress could be improved with better knowledge about certain topics—such as cogovernance of fresh water systems, or social impacts of resource development—and more evaluation of new approaches to programs and services.

Read the full report: 
sshrc-crsh.gc.ca/society-societe/community-communite/ifca-iac/03-aboriginal_peoples_in_Canada_report-les_peuples_autochtones_en_Canada_rapport-eng.aspx