A Gathering of Support: Developing an Aboriginal Grassroots Research Network on HIV/Aids

Abstract

Being a network of Aboriginal people, organizations and agencies, we respectfully strive to provide support and services to our First Nations, Métis and Inuit families and communities who are experiencing HIV/AIDS.  The Network is well aware of the Federal Initiative to address HIV/AIDS in Canada. Aboriginal people are listed as a population at risk but fit into all but one of the populations listed:  people living with HIV/AIDS, gay men, injection drug users, Aboriginal people, prison inmates, youth and women at risk for HIV infection, and people from countries where HIV is endemic.

Research has always been on the agenda of the Network, we have taken part in national, provincial and regional research projects in different capacities.  The Network would like to propose a two day workshop in Regina which would consist of Aboriginal people living with HIV/AIDS (APHA’s), community service providers, academics, professionals and students.  As a Network in Saskatchewan, we will invite members from Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert.

The workshop would highlight several initiatives including lived experiences of APHA’s, community based organizations’ perspectives, importance of research (principles of Ownership, Control, Access, Possession or OCAP), group research activity, future Aboriginal HIV/AIDS research projects. Specifically, we will ask the participants:

1)  What is your knowledge about HIV/AIDS among Aboriginal people?

2)  How do you think our research can assist in reducing rates of HIV/AIDS among Aboriginal People?

3)  What kinds of services or supports regarding HIV/AIDS and Aboriginal people exist in your area?  What kinds of services or supports would you like to see?

4)  What should our research priorities be over the next year?  3 years?  5 years?IHHhh

The community-based workshop will be digitally recorded, transcribed and coded and themed using grounded theory.  Participants will provide an evaluation of the workshop that will be included in a summary report that will be disseminated amongst all participants. 

The workshop would be attended by Elders who would provide the guidance and traditional ceremonies needed to complete the circle.  The workshop would be based on Aboriginal ways of knowledge and conducted in methods that are respectful to all.

The Network’s specific objective is to develop partnerships that will support applications for funding to complete research among the Aboriginal population of Saskatchewan.  Specifically, we want to engage, mentor and train Aboriginal students in community-based research methodology. This will foster a working relationship with academics, professionals, Elders, APHA’s, community groups, students and professionals.

Research Team

Mary Hampton (Co-Investigator)

Margaret Akan (First Nations University of Canada)

Carrie Bourassa (First Nations University of Canada)

Completed 06-2008