Context
SSHRC continues to recognize aboriginal research as a priority area. The priority area is in recognition of the complexity of the aboriginal experience in the 21st century, and the need for a future in which aboriginal communities are empowered, culturally vibrant, healthy, safe and prosperous. Supporting social science and humanities research undertaken by and with Aboriginal Peoples is a key way to invest in this future.
SSHRC defines aboriginal research as:
research that builds on traditions of thought and experience developed among, and in partnership with, First Nation, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada, as well as indigenous peoples in other parts of the world.
Aboriginal research can encompass all academic fields, as well as domains of knowledge specific to First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultural traditions.
Those who conduct aboriginal research, while coming from diverse cultural traditions, are committed to respectful research involving both aboriginal and non-aboriginal perspectives. This understanding of aboriginal research represents a shift away from research on and for Aboriginal Peoples, to research by and with Aboriginal Peoples.
