U of T Arts & Science and Indigenous Research Network to co-host research symposium 

By: Tina Adamopoulos

The Dean’s Advisory Committee on Indigenous Research, Teaching, and Learning in the Faculty of Arts & Science and the Indigenous Research Network at the University of Toronto, will host the A&S Indigenous Research Ethics Symposium on Sept. 23.  

The symposium will offer insights from multidisciplinary U of T faculty, government representatives and community leaders on fostering respectful collaboration, supporting Indigenous knowledge systems and strengthening relationships across academic and community settings – while also inviting attendees to celebrate Indigenous cultures. 

Learn more about what to expect. 

Tools and insights on Indigenous research ethics 

Reflecting on how relational research ethics are grounded in reciprocity, respect and care, U of T faculty will share how they have co-developed research projects based on community interests, needs, protocols and sustained, transparent engagement.  

The discussion will provide practical approaches to supporting Indigenous research priorities, including funding, planning and project design that remain flexible and honour community leadership and decision-making. 

A look into Indigenous epistemologies in the sciences 

Scientific research conducted on Indigenous lands is often carried out without meaningful engagement with Indigenous peoples. Indigenous epistemologies emphasize the interconnectedness of all creation, including the non-human world, and call for ethical considerations that extend beyond institutional research frameworks.  

This panel will explore how Indigenous scholars are reshaping scientific research by bridging Western and Indigenous science, influencing institutional understanding, policies and priorities. 

Critical conversations on language revitalization 

The revitalization of Indigenous languages is not only vital for cultural continuity but also shapes how research is conceptualized, conducted and interpreted.  

The day's series of talks will conclude with a fireside chat between Ronald E. Ignace, Canada’s inaugural Commissioner of Indigenous Languages, and Karihwakè:ron Tim Thompson, Mohawk, Bear Clan from Wahta Mohawk Territory, a leader in Indigenous education and language revitalization. This discussion will focus on the importance of language revitalization and its connection to identity, culture and research.  

A chance to connect with scholars 

Connecting with other scholars at the A&S Indigenous Research Symposium is a great way to share ideas, build relationships and learn from each other’s experiences. The day offers an incredible opportunity for interdisciplinary scholars at various stages of their academic careers to connect over goals, ideas and projects that have a shared commitment to working with and for Indigenous communities. 

A celebration of Indigenous culture 

To close the event, attendees are invited to enjoy a feast catered by Nookomis Kitchen. While you enjoy delicious bites, all are also warmly invited to participate in a Haudenosaunee social, hosted by the Indigenous Research Network. Led by members of Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, the social will feature traditional songs and dances. The gathering offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrancy and community spirit of Haudenosaunee culture.