Indigenous Health, Wellness, and Sport: Empowerment and Self- Determination

Symposium C8

Abstract

Purpose: The primary purpose of this symposium is to support the empowerment and self-determination of Indigenous community members from around the world providing greater ownership over health, wellness, and sport.

Description: This symposium will include leading Indigenous and non-Indigenous ally scholars and community leaders in the discussion of the latest advancements in Indigenous led health, wellness, and sport initiatives. Using real world examples, the presenters will share their lived experiences and the important lessons learned through the genuine inclusion of Indigenous ways of understanding and doing in health, wellness, and sport settings.

Chair and Presenter 1: Dr. Moss Norman, Indigenous Studies in Kinesiology, University of British Columbia. Title: Introduction to Symposium & The Relationship between Land, Culture, Physical Activity, Sport, and Identity Description: Dr. Norman will briefly introduce the Symposium topics and presenters. He will then discuss his experiences supporting Indigenous-centred, community-first research designs that examine the relationship between land, culture, physical activity, sport, and identity.

Presenter 2: Dr. Rosalin Miles, Lytton First Nation and University of British Columbia. Title: The Empowerment and Self-Determination of First Nations Communities in British Columbia Description: Dr. Miles will discuss her lived experiences as a First Nations community leader, scholar, athlete, and high-performance coach. She will discuss the importance of the genuine engagement of Indigenous Elders, community leaders, and youth in community-based initiatives that build upon the strengths and aspirations of Indigenous peoples and communities.

Presenter 3: Dr. Paul Whitnui, Ngā Puhi, Te Aupōuri, Ngāti Kurī, University of Victoria. Title: Developing an Indigenous Cultural Safety Training Impact Assessment Tool for Sport Dr. Whitinui is an Indigenous Māori scholar from the Confederation of Tribes in the Far North of Aotearoa New Zealand. Description: The focus of his talk will be on lessons learned from the development of an Indigenous Cultural Safety Training Impact tool for sport. This talk will provide on-going support for coaches, athletes, trainers, managers, and leaders to better self-evaluate their professional and personal practices when working with Indigenous Peoples.

Presenter 4: Waneek Horn-Miller, Mohawk, Kahnawake Territory.

Title: The Warrior Within Description: Waneek will discuss her lived experiences as an Olympic athlete, coach, and Indigenous leader. Her talk will provide an example of the power of sport to help Indigenous peoples focus their emotions and experiences into achievement.

Results: This symposium will provide a greater appreciation of the importance of the genuine inclusion of Indigenous ways of understanding and doing in health, wellness, and sport settings. This symposium will also include a discussion of the importance of the inclusion of a wholistic vision of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual ceremonies and practices in health, wellness, and sport settings. It is anticipated that this symposium will support an increased understanding and acceptance of traditional Indigenous practices through Indigenous-led and community-based approaches.