“If You Fall Down, You Get Back Up”: Creating a Space for Testimony and Witnessing by Urban Indigenous Women and Girls

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Authors: Elizabeth Cooper and S Michelle Dreidger

Publication Year: 2019

Last Updated:

Journal: The International Indigenous Policy Journal

Keywords: Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriateness; Gender Identity; Women's Health; Cultural Memory; Advocacy

 

Short Abstract: Historical trauma and the negative effects of colonialism continue to be played out within Canadian culture. These processes have a deleterious effect on physical and psychological health outcomes among Indigenous Peoples.

 

Abstract: Historical trauma and the negative effects of colonialism continue to be played out within Canadian culture. These processes have a deleterious effect on physical and psychological health outcomes among Indigenous Peoples. Through the creation of a safe space as part of a decolonizing, participatory activity program spanning 7 weeks, First Nations and Metis women and girls (aged 8-12) were able to begin to unpack what it means to be happy, healthy, and safe, and what is needed to actualize these goals. A community engaged, asset-based workshop approach provided a forum for participants to discuss the impact of traumatic experiences on the ability of adults to model a positive image of strength, independence, and confidence for their daughters, while creating a space to discuss change.

 

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Source: https://ojs.lib.uwo.ca/index.php/iipj/article/view/7559

Type of Resource: Peer-reviewed scientific article