Two Spirit perspectives remain significantly under-represented in community research, presenting an equity gap that demands attention.
In this timely presentation, KD King (he/they) will explore the historical and contemporary forces that have shaped the exclusion of Two Spirit voices from research spaces. Participants will examine leadership within Two Spirit resurgence and community research movements, highlighting the scholars and practitioners reshaping the field.
Drawing on current scholarship, including KD’s intersectional doctoral research in Nursing focused on Métis identity and health, we will review the state of Two Spirit research today and consider how community-based research can move toward more inclusive, expansive and decolonial approaches.
Centring Two Spirit perspectives in community research is essential to advancing equity, intersectionality, and community well-being. It challenges colonial assumptions embedded in Western research practices and invites critical reflection on how our methodologies can become more responsive and accountable to the community.
This webinar invites us to ask ourselves, ‘What does it mean to design research that is intersectionally inclusive and grounded in Indigenous worldviews?
Historical and contemporary factors contributing to the under-representation of Two Spirit perspectives.
Key contributions of Two Spirit leaders in research and resurgence movements.
How Western paradigms marginalize Indigenous gender and sexual diversity?
Practical opportunities to strengthen inclusive and decolonial research methodologies
Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how research can evolve to honour Two Spirit knowledge systems, leadership and lived realities.
This session is designed for:
Community-based researchers
Health practitioners
Indigenous community members
Equity and reconciliation practitioners
Funders and policy leaders
Academics and students
Those interested in exploring decolonial approaches
All are welcome who are committed to expanding research practices to be more inclusive, relational, and accountable.
KD King (he/they). Co-Founder, Good Futures Collective
KD graduated from nursing in 2004, after growing up on a northern Alberta farm in Treaty 8 territory and the Peace region of the Métis homeland. They subsequently completed a Master of Public Health in epidemiology and hold a Ph.D. in Nursing from the University of Alberta, where their research explores Métis people’s experiences with HPV-related cancer prevention in Alberta.
KD is a practicing public health nurse, sessional instructor, and advocate for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. They are an oskâpêwis (Oh-skap-ee-oh or helper) for Cree Elder Grandmother Doreen Spence, and are committed to the ongoing journey of connection with culture and kin.
Rochelle Ignacio. Director, Equity, Anti-Racism and Reconciliation, Tamarack Institute