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Indigenous Health, Environments and Wellbeing in Canada

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A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2023) | Viewed by 32631

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Prof. Dr. Rhona Hanning

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School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W., Waterloo, ON N2L3G1, Canada
Interests: Indigenous food systems; assessment of environmental/social (including economic, justice, racism)/historical/cultural determinants or impacts on Indigenous health and/or wellbeing; Indigenous food/eating/health promotion or disease prevention program/policy/case studies and their evaluation; Indigenous methods in environment or public health research or knowledge mobilization; Indigenous community capacity building; participatory action research; Decolonization or Indigenization initiatives as they relate to the environment, health and wellbeing; quantitative, qualitative or mixed methods

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue, Indigenous Health, Environments and Wellbeing in Canada, will honour research related to Canada’s First Nations, Métis and/or Inuit peoples. Topics are expected to encompass assessments of environmental (including climate change)/social (including economic, justice, racism)/historical/cultural determinants of, or impacts on, Indigenous health, environments and/or wellbeing; Indigenous food systems (security, sustainability, sovereignty); Indigenous food/eating/health promotion or disease prevention initiatives/programs/policy/case studies and their evaluation; Indigenous theory/frameworks/methods in environmental or public health research or knowledge mobilization; Indigenous community capacity building; Decolonization or Indigenization initiatives as they relate to the environment, health and wellbeing. Articles may apply a range of approaches, including original research using quantitative, qualitative or mixed research methods and rigorous reviews (e.g., narrative, scoping, systematic). Adherence to principles for the ethical conduct of research with Indigenous peoples and communities, such as the First Nations OCAP (ownership, control, access and possession) principles, is required. Authors who are uncertain if their manuscripts fit within the scope of this Special Issue are welcome to contact the Guest Editor.

Prof. Dr. Rhona Hanning
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

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Keywords

Indigenous
First Nations
Métis
Inuit
health or wellbeing
environmental or climate change
food or nutrition

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Published Papers (11 papers)

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35 pages, 3512 KiB

Open AccessArticle

What Is Wellbeing, and What Is Important for Wellbeing? Indigenous Voices from across Canada

by Stephen R. J. Tsuji, Aleksandra M. Zuk, Andrew Solomon, Ruby Edwards-Wheesk, Fatima Ahmed and Leonard J. S. Tsuji

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(17), 6656; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20176656 - 26 Aug 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3583

Abstract

Indigenous peoples’ perceptions of wellbeing differ from non-Indigenous constructs. Thus, it is imperative to recognize that Indigenous peoples will conceptualize wellbeing from their perspectives and set their own wellbeing priorities. In keeping with this viewpoint, the aims of the present study were to conceptualize wellbeing and determine what was (and is) important for wellbeing from Canadian Indigenous peoples’ perspectives. In this paper, we take a partnership approach based on the elements of respect, equity, and empowerment. One primary data source and two existing data sources were examined and analyzed thematically utilizing a combination approach of deductive and inductive coding. Indigenous leadership and organizations viewed wellbeing holistically and conceptualized wellbeing multidimensionally. From across Canada, wellbeing was communicated as physical, economic, political, social, and cultural. The scaling of wellbeing represented a collectivist perspective, and land was the connecting thread between all types of wellbeing, being a place to practice cultural traditions, reassert one’s Indigenous identity, find solace, and pass on Indigenous knowledge and languages. Although wellbeing was discussed in the context of the individual, family, community, and nation, wellbeing was most often discussed at the cultural level by regional and national Indigenous leadership and organizations. Even in acknowledging the great cultural diversity among Canadian Indigenous nations, four concordant themes were identified regionally and nationally, with respect to what was important for cultural wellbeing: land and water, sustainability, and inherent obligations; being on the land, and indigenous languages and knowledge systems; sustainable development; and meaningful involvement in decision-making, and free, prior, and informed consent. Taking into account these themes is foundational for any interaction with Indigenous peoples, especially in the context of land, culture, and development. There needs to be a new beginning on the journey to reconciliation with land and cultural wellbeing at the forefront. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indigenous Health, Environments and Wellbeing in Canada)

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19 pages, 793 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“Where Creator Has My Feet, There I Will Be Responsible”: Place-Making in Urban Environments through Indigenous Food Sovereignty Initiatives

by Elisabeth Miltenburg, Hannah Tait Neufeld, Sarina Perchak and Dave Skene

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(11), 5970; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20115970 - 27 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1952

Abstract

There is a growing emergence of Indigenous Food Sovereignty (IFS) initiatives across urban centers within many regions of Canada. Urban Indigenous communities are leading these efforts to revitalize Indigenous foods and agricultural practices while promoting food security and increasing Land-based connections within cities. However, the socio-ecological environments within these urban contexts affect IFS initiatives in unique ways which have not been previously explored. This study addresses these gaps by drawing on qualitative interviews with seven urban Indigenous people leading IFS initiatives within Grand River Territory (situated within southern Ontario, Canada). Applying community-based participatory methods, this research explored how place impacts IFS initiatives within urban environments. Thematic analysis generated two overarching thematic categories: Land access, and place-making practices, revealing a bi-directional, dynamic interaction between place and urban IFS initiatives. Relationships with landowners, control of land, and external factors determined how Land was accessed in urban environments. Place-making practices involved fostering relationships with Land, upholding responsibilities, and cultivating Land-based knowledges. Therefore, IFS initiatives are impacted by Land access, but also facilitate place-making for urban Indigenous Peoples. These findings demonstrate pathways towards Indigenous self-determination and IFS within urban contexts, which can be applicable to other urban Indigenous communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indigenous Health, Environments and Wellbeing in Canada)

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18 pages, 373 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Structural Racism as an Ecosystem: An Exploratory Study on How Structural Racism Influences Chronic Disease and Health and Wellbeing of First Nations in Canada

by Krista Stelkia

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(10), 5851; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20105851 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3657

Abstract

Indigenous peoples in Canada experience disproportionately higher rates of chronic disease than their non-Indigenous counterparts. Previous research has identified structural racism as a powerful determinant of health and wellbeing. Mounting evidence demonstrates that First Nations are disproportionately over-represented, compared to other Canadians, in several domains that have been used to measure structural racism in other countries. Despite growing concern of the impact of structural racism on health, there remains little empirical evidence on the impact structural racism has on chronic disease health outcomes of First Nations. This qualitative study examines the complex and intersecting ways in which structural racism can influence chronic disease health outcomes and the overall health and wellbeing of First Nations in Canada. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty-five participants, including subject matter experts in health, justice, education, child welfare, politics, and researchers in racism scholarship and First Nations who have lived experience with a chronic condition(s). Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data collected. Six themes on how structural racism influences chronic disease and the health of First Nations were identified: (1) multiple and intersecting pathways; (2) systems of failure, harm, and indifference; (3) impacts on access to healthcare; (4) colonial policies of structural deprivation; (5) increased risk factors for chronic disease and poor health; and (6) structural burden leading to individual-level outcomes. Structural racism creates an ecosystem that negatively impacts chronic diseases and the health of First Nations. The findings illuminate how structural racism can have micro-level influences at an individual level and can influence one’s chronic disease journey and progression. Recognizing how structural racism shapes our environments may help to catalyze a shift in our collective understanding of the impact of structural racism on health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indigenous Health, Environments and Wellbeing in Canada)

17 pages, 639 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“We Need to Live off the Land”: An Exploration and Conceptualization of Community-Based Indigenous Food Sovereignty Experiences and Practices

by Brianna Poirier and Hannah Tait Neufeld

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(5), 4627; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20054627 - 6 Mar 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3562

Abstract

Although Indigenous food systems are sustainable in nature, many of these systems have been forcibly altered among Indigenous communities within Canada, as a consequence of colonization. Indigenous Food Sovereignty (IFS) movements work to counteract the dismantling of Indigenous food systems as well as the negative health impacts of environmental dispossession experienced by Indigenous communities. Through community-based participatory research methodologies and the utilization of Etuaptmumk, or two-eyed seeing, this research project explored community perspectives of IFS in Western Canada. Reflexive thematic analysis of qualitative data collected during a sharing circle held with community members identified the influence of Indigenous Knowledge and community support on three main aspects of Indigenous food sovereignty, including (1) environmental concerns, (2) sustainable practices and (3) a strong relationship with the land and waters. Through the sharing of stories and memories related to traditional foods and current sovereignty projects, community members identified concerns for their local ecosystem as well as a desire to preserve its natural state for generations to come. The strengthening of IFS movements is critical to the overall wellbeing of Indigenous communities within Canada. Support is needed for movements that honour relationships with traditional foods and recognize traditional lands and waters as necessary for healing and sustaining the health of Indigenous communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indigenous Health, Environments and Wellbeing in Canada)

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14 pages, 385 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Suicide a Water Justice Issue? Investigating Long-Term Drinking Water Advisories and Suicide in First Nations in Canada

by Jeffrey Ansloos and Annelies Cooper

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(5), 4045; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20054045 - 24 Feb 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3570

Abstract

First Nations experience disproportionate rates of suicide when compared to the general population. Various risk factors are identified to increase understanding of the prevalence of suicide among First Nations, but environmental dimensions of suicide are understudied. This study asks whether water insecurity, as reflected by long-term drinking water advisories (LT-DWA), has any bearing on the distribution of suicide in First Nations across Canada, and specifically in Ontario. To assess this, we established the proportion of First Nations with LT-DWAs in Canada and in Ontario that have had suicides occur between 2011 and 2016 through a review of media archives. This proportion was compared to census data on the proportion of First Nations with suicides in Canada and in Ontario between 2011 and 2016, and statistical significance of difference was determined through chi-square goodness of fit test. Overall, the findings were mixed. Nationally, there was no significantly difference of proportion of First Nations with LT-DWAs with combined (confirmed and probable) reported suicides occurring when compared to census proportions; however, at the provincial level, findings had significant differences. The authors conclude that water insecurity in First Nations, as indicated by the presence of a LT-DWA in First Nations across may be an important environmental dimension of suicide, contributing to enhanced risk for suicide in First Nations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indigenous Health, Environments and Wellbeing in Canada)

29 pages, 2445 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Indigenous Land-Based Approaches to Well-Being: The Niska (Goose) Harvesting Program in Subarctic Ontario, Canada

by Fatima Ahmed, Eric N. Liberda, Andrew Solomon, Roger Davey, Bernard Sutherland and Leonard J. S. Tsuji

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(4), 3686; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20043686 - 19 Feb 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2511

Abstract

Historically, goose harvesting provided a source of culturally significant, safe, and nutritious food for the Omushkego Cree of subarctic Ontario, Canada. Disruptions stemming from colonization and climate change have led to a decrease in harvesting, resulting in higher rates of food insecurity. The aim of the Niska program was to reconnect Elders and youth to revitalize goose harvesting activities and associated Indigenous knowledge within the community. The program and evaluation were built using a two-eyed seeing (Etuaptmumk) and community-based participatory research approach. Salivary cortisol, a biomedical measure of stress, was collected before (n = 13) and after (n = 13) participation in the spring harvest. Likewise, cortisol samples were collected before (n = 12) and after (n = 12) the summer harvest. Photovoice and semi-directed interviews were employed after the spring (n = 13) and summer (n = 12) harvests to identify key elements of well-being from an Indigenous perspective. The changes observed in cortisol levels for the spring (p = 0.782) and summer (p = 0.395) harvests were not statistically significant. However, there was a noteworthy increase in the subjective well-being observed through the qualitative measures (semi-directed interviews and photovoice), highlighting the importance of using multiple perspectives when assessing well-being, especially in Indigenous peoples. Future programs should incorporate multiple perspectives when addressing complex environmental and health issues, such as food security and environmental conservation, especially in Indigenous homelands worldwide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indigenous Health, Environments and Wellbeing in Canada)

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19 pages, 1791 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Learning Circles: A Collaborative Approach to Enhance Local, Healthy and Traditional Foods for Youth in the Northerly Community of Hazelton/Upper Skeena, British Columbia, Canada

by Louise W. McEachern, Sandra Harris, Renata Valaitis, Anissa Watson, Jennifer Yessis, Barbara Zupko and Rhona M. Hanning

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(23), 15878; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192315878 - 29 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1816

Abstract

Youth health, long-term food sovereignty and the reclamation of traditional food-related knowledge are areas of concern within Indigenous communities in Canada. Learning Circles: Local Healthy Food to School (LC:LHF2S) built on an exemplar program in four predominantly Indigenous communities. In each, the initiative worked with interested community members to plan, implement and evaluate a range of activities aimed at enhancing access to local, healthy and traditional foods for schools and youth. This case study describes the context, process, outcomes and perceptions of implementation in one of the communities, Hazelton/Upper Skeena, located in northern British Columbia. Data were collected between 2016–2019 and included semi-directed interviews with community members and LCEF (n = 18), process reporting (e.g., LCEF reports, emails, conference calls and tracking data), photographs and video footage, and photovoice. Data were analyzed thematically. Hazelton/Upper Skeena has an active local and traditional food culture. Indigenous governance was supportive, and community members focused on partnership and leadership development, gardens, and food skills work. Findings point to strengths; traditional food, knowledge and practices are valued by youth and were prioritized. LC:LHF2S is a flexible initiative that aims to engage the broader community, and exemplifies some of the best practices recommended for community-based initiatives within Indigenous communities. Results indicate that a LC is a feasible venture in this community; one that can facilitate partnership-building and contribute to increased access to local and traditional food among school-aged youth. Recommendations based on community input may help the uptake of the model in similar communities across Canada, and globally. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indigenous Health, Environments and Wellbeing in Canada)

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17 pages, 683 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Canada First Nations Strengths in Community-Based Primary Healthcare

by Grace Kyoon Achan, Rachel Eni, Wanda Phillips-Beck, Josée G. Lavoie, Kathi Avery Kinew and Alan Katz

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13532; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013532 - 19 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3316

Abstract

Introduction: First Nation (FN) peoples and communities in Canada are still grappling with the effects of colonization. Health and social inequities result in higher disease burden and significant disparities in healthcare access and responsiveness. For resilience, survival, and self-determination, FN are looking inwards for strengths. This paper reports on the cultural, community, and family strengths that have supported FN communities in developing community-based primary healthcare (CBPHC) strategies to support health and wellbeing. Methods: The study was a partnership between university-based researchers; The First Nations Health and Social Secretariat of Manitoba; and eight First Nation communities in Manitoba. Community-based participatory research methods were used to engage the participating communities. One hundred and eighty-three in-depth, semi-structured key informant interviews were completed between 2014 and 2016 with key members of the First Nation communities, i.e., community-based health providers and users of primary healthcare services, representing all age and genders. Data-collection and analysis were conducted following iterative grounded theory analysis. Results: Community-based healthcare models based on local strengths support easier access and shorter wait times for care and compassionate care delivery. Resources such as homecare and medical transportation are helpful. Community cooperation, youth power, responsive leadership, and economic development as well as a strong cultural and spiritual base are key strengths supporting health and social wellbeing. Conclusions: Locally led, self-determined care adds strength in FN communities, and is poised to create long-lasting primary healthcare transformation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indigenous Health, Environments and Wellbeing in Canada)

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18 pages, 473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Wapekeka’s COVID-19 Response: A Local Response to a Global Pandemic

by Keira A. Loukes, Stan Anderson, Jonas Beardy, Mayhève Clara Rondeau and Michael A. Robidoux

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(18), 11562; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191811562 - 14 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2127

Abstract

Two years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, many nations and communities continue to grapple with waves of infection and social fallout from pandemic fatigue and frustration. While we are still years away from realizing the full impacts of COVID-19, reflecting on our collective responses has offered some insights into the impact that various public health policies and decisions had on nations’ abilities to weather the multifaceted impacts of the pandemic. Widely believed to have the potential to be devastated by COVID-19, many Indigenous communities in Canada were extremely successful in managing outbreaks. This paper outlines one such example, Wapekeka First Nation, and the community’s formidable response to the pandemic with a specific focus on food mobilization efforts. Built on over a decade of community-based participatory action research and informed by six interviews with key pandemic leaders in the community, this paper, co-led by two community hunters and band council members, emphasizes the various decisions and initiatives that led to Wapekeka’s successful pandemic response. Proactive leadership, along with strong traditional harvesting and processing efforts, helped to take care of the community while they remained strictly isolated from virus exposure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indigenous Health, Environments and Wellbeing in Canada)

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17 pages, 560 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First Nations Peoples’ Eating and Physical Activity Behaviors in Urban Areas: A Mixed-Methods Approach

by Anne-Marie Leclerc, Maude Boulanger, Paule Miquelon and Marie-Claude Rivard

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10390; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610390 - 20 Aug 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1984

Abstract

The dietary transition from traditional to commercial foods and a decrease in physical activity (PA) have impacted the health of the First Nations people of Quebec (Canada), resulting in many suffering from multiple chronic diseases. This study had two objectives: (1) to examine eating and PA behaviors among First Nations peoples in urban areas and (2) to explore the associated health representations. To achieve these objectives, a mixed-methods approach, including a questionnaire (n = 32) and a semi-structured interview (n = 14), was used to explore the participants’ lifestyle profiles and health experiences. The questionnaire focused on the eating and PA behaviors of First Nations people and their underlying motivations. At the same time, the interviews investigated their health views on diet and PA behaviors based on the conceptual framework of health and its determinants. According to the participants, health is the autonomy to live without pain by maintaining a balance between physical and psychological aspects, eating healthy and exercising. Family and work influence participants’ PA and eating behaviors. Exploring First Nations people’s beliefs and perceptions and the motivations underlying their health behaviors could help encourage the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle despite multiple chronic health conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indigenous Health, Environments and Wellbeing in Canada)

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19 pages, 2179 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Mamwi Gidaanjitoomin/Together We Build It: A Systematic Review of Traditional Indigenous Building Structures in North America and Their Potential Application in Contemporary Designs to Promote Environment and Well-Being

by Angela Mashford-Pringle, Ruofan Fu and Sterling Stutz

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(6), 4761; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20064761 - 8 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2754

Abstract

(1) Background: Housing has long been recognized as an essential determinant of health. Our sense of home goes beyond physical shelter and is associated with personal or collective connections with spaces and places. However, modern architecture has gradually lost its connections between people and places; (2) Methods: We examined traditional Indigenous architecture and how it can be utilized in contemporary settings to restore connections to promote the environment, health, and well-being. (3) Results: We found that traditional Indigenous building structures may be the best manifestation of the Indigenous interconnected and holistic worldviews in North America, containing thousands of years of knowledge and wisdom about the land and the connection between humans and the environment, which is the foundation of reciprocal well-being; (4) Conclusions: Learning from the traditional structures, we proposed that modern architects should consider the past, present, and future in every endeavor and design and to utilize traditional knowledge as a crucial source of inspiration in creating works that are beneficial for both current and future generations by taking collectivism, health and well-being, and the environment into consideration in designs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indigenous Health, Environments and Wellbeing in Canada)

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