Indignous girls

Abstract

  • Use of Indigenous Storywork and Métis Beadwork methodologies to explore the experiences of Indigenous girls in foster care.

  • Key themes identified: disruption, difficult transitions, family and culture as a determinant of health.

  • Emphasis on the urgency for policy change in child welfare and support for Indigenous rights.

Introduction

  • Acknowledgment of Indigenous lands and gratitude to Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.

  • Cheryl's background: Métis heritage, Polish, Ukrainian, and Dutch descent, experiences in youth work with Indigenous youth.

  • Amy's background: Nisga’a identity, advocacy for Indigenous youth through education and research.

  • Goal to highlight the experiences of Indigenous girls in foster care, specifically regarding relocation from rural northern communities to urban areas.

Displacement and Relocation

  • Relocation impacts mental health, identity, and social networks of Indigenous youth.

  • Importance of storytelling and understanding the perspectives of Indigenous girls.

Breath of Life Theory

  • Developed by Cindy Blackstock, it connects Indigenous knowledge with child welfare interventions.

  • Emphasizes the interconnection of cognitive, physical, spiritual, and emotional wellbeing.

  • Importance of balancing principles across individual and collective contexts.

Indigenous Communities and Child Welfare in Canada

  • Indigenous children are disproportionately represented in the child welfare system.

    • Less than 7.7% of Canadian children are Indigenous, yet they make up 52.2% of those in foster care.

  • Historical trauma including the Indian Residential School System and