Decolonizing Autism: An Exploration into the Experiences of First Nations People in Canada

• Author / Creator

  Bruno, Grant

• In Canada, there is a significant lack of research on the lived experience of autism within First Nations communities. Canada's Human Rights Tribunal found that the Government of Canada was discriminating against First Nations children based on race and national ethnic origin. Systemic barriers exist for First Nations families in receiving adequate services on reserves, including discriminatory policies at the federal and provincial levels. Autism occurs in all populations, including Indigenous populations, but there are minimal supports and services for First Nations families and communities. This research aimed to meaningfully engage with First Nations families and those with the lived experience of autism to better understand their complex realities.
  This community-led study was done in partnership with the First Nation communities of Maskwacîs and the Six Nations of the Grand River. The nêhiyaw concept of wâhkôtowin was woven throughout the entire research process. The Sweetgrass analysis method was used for data analysis in the research. A scoping review revealed a dearth of high-quality research on autism among Indigenous people in Canada. The Elders' Study and Caregivers' Study provided insights into autism from a nêhiyaw perspective. Caregivers shared the challenges and opportunities of raising Autistic children, emphasizing the significance of cultural aspects and community support.
  The research aimed to address the lack of attention and research on autism within Indigenous populations in Canada through Indigenous-led research methods. Knowledge mobilization efforts included establishing support groups, creating documentaries, and aligning findings with global perspectives on Indigenous autism. Overall, this research obtained its objective and sheds light on the realities of autism in two First Nations communities.

• Subjects / Keywords

  • Indigenous
  • First Nations
  • Autism
  • Neurodiversity
  • Community Research
  • Indigenous Methods

• Graduation date

  Fall 2024

• Type of Item

  Thesis

• Degree

  Doctor of Philosophy

• DOI

  https://doi.org/10.7939/r3-k592-zc85

• License

  This thesis is made available by the University of Alberta Library with permission of the copyright owner solely for non-commercial purposes. This thesis, or any portion thereof, may not otherwise be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the copyright owner, except to the extent permitted by Canadian copyright law.