Coming Together for Indigenous Research
The 2024 IDays conference at Thompson Rivers University was a resounding success, offering a dynamic and enriching experience for all attendees. Held on March 11-12, the conference began with a vibrant registration and networking session, where participants were warmly welcomed with a selection of global Indigenous dishes and valuable opportunities to connect.
The opening ceremony, graced by esteemed leaders such as Kukpi7 Roseanne Casimir, set a profound tone for the event, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous knowledge and traditions. Throughout the two days, attendees engaged in various activities including keynote speeches by distinguished researchers Dr. Airini and Dr. Sereana Naepi, hands-on workshops like pine needle weaving, and insightful discussions on climate change, food sovereignty, and the vital roles of Indigenous women.
The “Coyote Brings the Food” conference, a highlight of IDays, showcased groundbreaking research by global Indigenous women, underscoring the significance of integrating Indigenous perspectives in addressing pressing global issues. This event not only celebrated diverse cultures and knowledge but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations and initiatives, making a lasting impact on all who participated.
Coyote Brings the Food
The story “Coyote Brings Food from the Upper World” tells how Coyote brought to earth the plants that the Secwepemc use for food and medicine, and how animals and fish got their special shape and features. The story closes with Coyote gathering all the people together and reminding them to enjoy the environment where they are, to share what they have, and to not ruin or destroy.
“It is your job to care for the land and to protect all living things.” he said, “You are its caretaker.”
Read the Journal Now
Click the link below to read this Special Edition in PDF form, and learn more about this publication.
The Journal Theme
This volume was a special partnership between the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization and Knowledge Makers that focused on Indigenous Women, Indigenous Peoples’ Food and Knowledge Systems, and Climate Action.
The Publication Goal
Through this program Knowledge Makers and the UNFAO aimed to accompany Indigenous Women researchers on the path to promote the recognition of Indigenous Women’s knowledge, and to amplify the influence of their voice in the decision-making processes that affect them.
The Cohort
This edition of the Knowledge Makers program brought together an international cohort of 16 Indigenous women to strengthen and increase skills for Indigenous-led knowledge sharing and research.
The Reach
This volume invited Indigenous Women from the seven socio-cultural regions to apply for this Special Edition of the Knowledge Makers Journal. The aim was to ensure Indigenous women’s knowledge globally is recognized.
Meet the Authors
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger.
Their goal is to achieve food security for all and make sure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 members – 194 countries and the European Union, FAO works in over 130 countries worldwide.
