Our Legacy
The Journal
As of 2023, Knowledge Makers has featured over 100 undergraduates, 50 Graduates and Knowledge Makers alumni, and 15 Elders and Faculty.
The papers in each volume vary and have covered topics across the whole range of academia. This includes topics from fine arts to education to physics, and every year we hope to include even more topics and voices in our research network.
With each volume of Knowledge Makers, we are not only able to connect and grow our network but also build something together that makes sharing and preserving knowledge possible.
The Volumes
To view information on any of our previous volumes, learn about the authors, or access the free PDF of the journal click the volume you wish to see to open that tab.
The Ninth Volume
As we look back on 2023, this year marked a significant chapter in the journey of our Knowledge Makers Journal. Beginning with our annual workshop in February, this volume’s cohort embarked on an inspiring path of research and writing. A highlight of the year was a transformative two-week immersive learning exchange in Aotearoa, where our students engaged with Maori hosts at Waikato University, deepening their understanding of Indigenous knowledge.
This edition presents a compelling collection of essays, research, and reflections from Indigenous students across a wide range of disciplines at TRU. Each contribution offers a distinct voice, shedding light on the intersections of Indigenous knowledge, contemporary challenges, and personal journeys, enriching the ongoing dialogues of decolonization and reconciliation.
Authors
Metis Cree and Scottish/English descent
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “A Crisis of Identity: Self-Discovery in the Writings of Ancestors.” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
Tk’emlups te Secwepemc
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “Analyzing Food Sovereignty in Secwepemc’ulucw: Realizing a Pathway to Indigenous Dietary Health Through Cultural Reconnection” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
Metis
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “Taking the Delegated Mask off Ministry of Children and Family Development” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
Cree
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “Implicit Racism and How It Affects Indigenous People in our Current Education System in Canada” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
St’at’imc Nation
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “The St’at’imc Seven Laws of Life as Rylee Bull” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
Plains Cree Nation
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “Finding Yourself, Your Spirit, Your Will to Survive” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
Metis
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “Negligence, Failure, Irreparable Damage: An Analysis of Provincial and Federal Jurisprudence within the Mount Polley Mine Disaster” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
Metis
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “Reclaiming Sex and Pleasure” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
Tsilhqot’in (Nemiah Valley)
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “Knowledge Makers” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
Dakelh
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “Trip to Aotearoa” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
Metis
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “Incarcerated Indigenous Peoples and Restorative Justice: Who Does Restorative Justice Actually Benefit” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
Dakelh
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “Dakelh Oral History and Transformational Leadership: Visioning a Two-eyed Seeing Approach to Summer Camp Leadership” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
West Moberly First Nations
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “Assessing the Energy Efficiencies of AMD and Intel Processors on Browser Tools” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
Tk’emlups te Secwepemc
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “What Does Belonging Mean to You?” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
Bigstone Cree Nation
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “Evolution = Sovereignty ” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
Lytton First Nation
Thompson Rivers University
Author of “The Environmental Impact of the Railway Within Lytton First Nations” in Knowledge Makers Volume 9.
The Eighth Volume
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.
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 Seventh Volume
Please check back later for more on this Volume
The Sixth Volume
As we reflect upon the year 2021, it becomes evident that it stood apart from any other in recent memory. Amidst the challenging backdrop of a global pandemic, our collective sense of unity and togetherness underwent a remarkable transformation, driven by an unwavering commitment to prioritize safety and well-being.
In line with these extraordinary times, the 2021 journal edition took on a distinct character of its own. Within its pages, we celebrated a diverse tapestry of contributors, encompassing not only undergraduates but also a spectrum of accomplished individuals ranging from esteemed alumni, exceptional PhD students, and dedicated masters candidates, to our revered Elders and esteemed faculty members.
Undergraduate
Graduate
Cook Island Māori
University of Canterbury ~ PhD
About here
Author of “Empowering Pacifica Voice in Education” in Knowledge Makers Volume 6
palawa – Aboriginal
University of Sydney ~ PhD
About here
Author of “Coronership in the Colony: Using a critical decolonising lens to understand the coronial system in New South Wales” in Knowledge Makers First Volume 6
Papua New Guinean
University of Auckland ~ PhD Sociology
About here
Author of “Does Colonisation Think of Water? A History of Aqua Nullius” in Knowledge Makers First Volume 6
Māori
University of Waikato ~ Master of Social Science
About here
Author of “Maybe One Day Our Tamariki Will Be Born Free: A paper on Māori over imprisonment” in Knowledge Makers First Volume 6
Māori
University of Auckland ~ Master of Arts
About here
Author of “Kua Tamia te reo Māori e ngā hangarau whakawhiti kōrero” in Knowledge Makers First Volume 6
Saulteaux
Thompson Rivers University Alumni
About here
Author of “Colonization, Child Welfare, and Families of Turtle Island and Whanau of Aotearoa” in Knowledge Makers First Volume 6
Māori – Ngāpuhi/Ngāti Kahu. Niue – Makefu
University of Auckland
PhD
About here
Author of “Examining Early Medieval Punishment Through the Lens of Matāurānga Māori” in Knowledge Makers First Volume 6
Faculty and Elders
The Fifth Volume
Our 2020 journal had 21 contributors. We begin with a remembering of Elder Estella Patrick-Moller, to whom this journal is dedicated, and her inspiring ways and words. The papers within helped us to discover the interconnectedness of the path we walk and the impact of tourism on Indigenous cultures and communities.
We discuss the impact and natural ecological influences that climate change left on Indigenous women. We discuss the preservation of culture through art and the value of holding onto traditional Indigenous ways in contemporary times.
We close with a quote from Elder Estella “Being part of Knowledge Makers has opened up a door that I thought might never happen in my lifetime. I’m just so grateful now that all the knowledge that I have is not going to get lost. I’m so proud of you.”
Undergraduates
Graduates
Elders and Faculty
Gitxsan
RN, BScN, MScN, COHN, PhD (IP)
Sheila is a Gitxsan woman, a faculty member in the School of Nursing, and a doctoral nursing student at the University of Alberta. She has 31 years of experience working in acute care, rural nursing, Aboriginal health, and occupational health nursing. Sheila’s research interests include horizontal workplace bullying among Registered Nurses, Indigenous health, and recruitment and retention of RNs and nursing students. Sheila is currently the Chair of the Indigenous Health Nursing Committee.
Author of “Forging a path, going back into the forest and
into our hearts” in Knowledge Makers Volume 5
Fijian and Pakeha
The University of Auckland, New Zealand
Co-author of “Five Ideas About Relationships that Advance Indigenous Research” in Knowledge Makers Volume 5
Métis
Author of “Conversations with the Elders” in Knowledge Makers Volume 5
Samoan and Pakeha
Thompson Rivers University
Co-author of “Five Ideas About Relationships that Advance Indigenous Research” in Knowledge Makers Volume 5
Kanienkehaka (Mohawk)
British Columbia Innovation Chair in Aboriginal Health & Director of All My Relations
Author of “Has Reconciliation been Re-Concealed?” in Knowledge Makers Volume 5
Associate Vice-President, Research & Graduate Studies
Author of “The Knowledge Makers as Territorial Acknowledgment” in Knowledge Makers Volume 5
The Fourth Volume
Our 2019 journal had 24 contributors. We open with Sandra Bandura, who reflects on the words of the Knowledge Makers who came before her and the lessons that they offer: “They are the front line, the leaders, and the inspiration for me and others. By using their voices, I demonstrate the idea of interconnected knowledge and our connection to each other.”
We then share our thoughts on dismantling the Eurocentric foundations of social work, addressing the racism inherent in the justice system, and the impact of colonization on language retention. From there we discuss the loss of medicinal plants, responses to macroaggressions, seeing justice for our communities, healing from addiction, and residential schools.
We reflect on our family histories and how they tie to the wider colonial project, and the failure of the justice system to uphold the honour of our families, and we ask Thompson Rivers University to uphold its commitment to Indigenous learners. We close with Stephanie Tour and her reflections on learning to “jig in both worlds” as she balances Indigenous knowledge-making and the academy.
Undergraduates
Graduates
Elders, Faculty, and Staff
About here
Co-author of “Our Work Together: Knowledge Makers” in Knowledge Makers Volume 4
Adams Lake Indian Band
Author of “Conversations with Elders” in Knowledge Makers Volume 4
About here
Author of “Closing” in Knowledge Makers Volume 4
Nakazdli First Nation
Author of “Conversations with the Elders” in Knowledge Makers Volume 4
Adams Lake Indian Band
Author of “Conversations with the Elders” in Knowledge Makers Volume 4
Secwépemc
Author of “Ta Moko” and “Aotearoa” in Knowledge Makers Volume 4
Onion Lake Cree Nation
Knowledge Makers Coordinator
Author of “For the Passion of Learning” and Co-author of “Our Work Together: Knowledge Makers” in Knowledge Makers Volume 4
Anishinaabe
Transitions Day Coordinator
Author of “A Conversation with Thunder Sky” in Knowledge Makers Volume 4
About here
Co-author of “Our Work Together: Knowledge Makers” in Knowledge Makers Volume 4
About here
Co-author of “Our Work Together: Knowledge Makers” in Knowledge Makers Volume 4
Kanienkehaka (Mohawk)
British Columbia Innovation Chair in Aboriginal Health & Director of All My Relations
Author of “Becoming a Coyote: My 27 Years as an Indigenous Academic and Researcher” in Knowledge Makers Volume 4
Professor & Associate Vice-President, Research & Graduate Studies
Author of “Making Knowledge, Here” and Co-author of “Our Work Together: Knowledge Makers” in Knowledge Makers Volume 4
The Third Volume
Our 2018 journal had 21 contributors. We open with Aaron Fredborg, who explores the impact of the current K-12 system on Indigenous students and suggests a way forward that is inclusive of all learners.
We share our thoughts on Indigenous research, the importance of our languages and cultural practices in resurgence, self-determination, and self-governance, and how our epistemologies can interact with Western epistemologies. We reflect on authentic tourism experiences, the cultural and ecological impacts of declining salmon stocks, and our own biases.
Our last article comes from Roxie Defant, who urges us to “forget decolonization and reconciliation” and “start with radical cultural resurgence.” We close with words from Elder Mike Arnouse, who reminds us what we do as Indigenous researchers is share our people’s knowledge, and stories in ways that are inspired by Coyote. This has been a great journey that is a privilege to share with everyone.
Undergraduates
Graduates
Elders and Faculty
Fijian and Pakeha
All My Relations Research Network
Co-author of “Be the Real Me: Learning From Knowledge Makers” in Knowledge Makers Volume 3
Saulteaux, Keeseekoose First Nation
Canada Research Chair in Indigenizing Higher Education
Author of “Indigenous Research That Matters (Transformational Change, Ceremony and Mentorship)” in Knowledge Makers Volume 3
My Tsimshian name is Tzugomdask of the Eagle clan of Kitkatla in the Tsimshian Nation. I am also from Bella Bella in the Heiltsuk Nation and the Yorkshire clan from my maternal grandmother.
Author of “Good Words” in Knowledge Makers Volume 3
Tongan
Poet and Academic
Author of “Mana Moana Leadership” in Knowledge Makers Volume 3
Samoan and Pakeha
Dean, Faculty of Education and Social Work
Airini researches equity in post-secondary education (policy, practices, teaching), especially how
universities can support exceptional levels of Indigenous student success.
Author of “Be the Real Me: Learning From Knowledge Makers” in Knowledge Makers Volume 3
Kanienkehaka
BC Research Chair In Indigenous health
Author of “The Ripple Effect” in Knowledge Makers Volume 3
Thompson Rivers University Associate Vice President, Research & Graduate Studies
Author of “On Memory and Knowledge” in Knowledge Makers Volume 3
The Second Volume
Our 2017 journal had 22 contributors. We open with Marina Troke’s paper on the critical potency (like ‘lightning’) of Indigenous researchers being knowledge makers.
The following papers then weaved together knowledge-making with identity, youth, art, research methods, international understandings, technology, social work, e-portfolios, substance abuse, communication, researcher mentoring, culture and politics, tourism, cultural safety, sustainable hunting, achievement in post-secondary education, Secwépemc research, and Secwépemc epistemology.
Past Knowledge Makers and established Indigenous scholars were threaded alongside the undergraduate Knowledge Makers’ papers, further strengthening our expanding Knowledge Makers research community.
We closed with Elder Mike Arnouse’s words, who reminded us that we come from strength; through our work together as knowledge makers we draw on our “original capabilities.” It is this collective strength, this potential, that is so present throughout this Knowledge Makers journal.
Undergraduate
Graduate
Faculty and Elders
Gitxsan
RN, BScN, MScN, COHN, PhD (IP)
Sheila is a Gitxsan woman, a faculty member in the School of Nursing, and a doctoral nursing student at the University of Alberta. She has 31 years of experience working in acute care, rural nursing, Aboriginal health, and occupational health nursing. Sheila’s research interests include horizontal workplace bullying among Registered Nurses, Indigenous health, and recruitment and retention of RNs and nursing students. Sheila is currently the Chair of the Indigenous Health Nursing Committee.
Author of “Indigenous Research Place and Protocols” in Knowledge Makers Volume 2
Beaver Lake Cree Nation
Thompson Rivers University
Lisa is a member of Beaver Lake Cree Nation, Associate Professor, and researcher with the
Thompson River University, School of Nursing. After 25 years as a Registered Nurse, she began
her teaching career working with Maskwacis Community College/Health Center in Alberta, Arctic
Nursing program in Iqaluit Nunavut, and the Faculty of Nursing at the University of Alberta where
she developed and delivered Indigenous-nursing initiatives. Lisa was awarded her PhD in Nursing
in 2014.
Author of “Knowledge Makers Creating Knowledge: Sustaining Hope” in Knowledge Makers Volume 2
Nation
Natalie’s research interests are in the area of violence, trauma, youth health within an Indigenous
and intersectional framework, sexual exploitation, abuse, rural and remote health, Indigenous health, and girls’ groups within an intersectional and violence-informed model. Natalie’s most recent research is focused on culturally safe and anti-oppressive field education for Aboriginal students; as well as creating a youth health research agenda within an intersectional approach including gender, culture, and geography. Natalie is the founder and Director of the Centre for Community-Based Youth Health Research at Thompson Rivers University. Through the Centre, she supports research related to youth health in rural communities and small cities in partnership with communities, and youth themselves.
Author of “Raised up as Researchers on the Land:
Xq’wle`w’men – My Berry-picking Basket” in Knowledge Makers Volume 2
Pakeha and Samoan
Airini researches equity in post-secondary education (policy, practices, teaching), especially how
universities can support exceptional levels of Indigenous student success.
Author of “Forward & Acknowledgements” and “Walking the Talk: How to Indigenize Research” in Knowledge Makers Volume 2
Thompson Rivers University Associate Vice President, Research
Author of “Untitled” in Knowledge Makers Volume 2
The First Volume
Our 2016 journal had 21 contributors. We opened with Marcus Scherer’s reflections on his participation in Knowledge Makers, which reminds us of the importance of research and how research and education have shaped us all.
We then shared our thoughts on Indigenous research methodologies, photography, education, governance, law, environment, and identity.
We closed with Elder Mike Arnouse, whose words took us back to a moment in time where we shared stories, laughter, and song, and reminded us that our efforts today can influence future possibilities.
Undergraduate
Shuswap Nation
My name is Ashlie Daniels. My parents are April (Daniels) Thomas and Jamie Thomas. My mother is from Canim Lake Indian Band and my father is from Sugar Cane Indian Band. I am Shuswap nation from both sides of my family. I have a son, Max, with my spouse Steven Mack. I am currently in my final semester of the Bachelor of Social Work, as well as the Aboriginal Studies Certificate. I plan to use my education towards helping Aboriginal youth in the community.
Author of “Decolonising Kamloops Initiative” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
Métis
Celeste Graham is a Métis woman whose ancestry is from Sioux Valley Dakota Nation in Manitoba. Celeste is interested in expanding the knowledge of others on environmental regulations and providing legal aid for the indigenous population.
Author of “Environmental Law and Mining Operations on Indigenous Soil” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
Dakelh and Stó:lō Nations
Charlotte Munroe is a proud mother of two daughters and an avid student. She was born in Fort St. James, BC, but has had the pleasure and honour of living within other neighboring Nations, such as in the Secwepemcw, Chilcotin, and Kootenai regions. For the past four years, Charlotte has dedicated her time and efforts towards obtaining an education in the areas of Anthropology and Psychology, while also being an active member on issues within her traditional homelands. As such, her areas of interest are in Indigenous studies and the Canadian Law system as it pertains to Aboriginal Title and Rights.
Author of “Native Space and Place” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
Seton Lake Band
Dionne Mohammed’s Aboriginal ancestors are from Statimc Nation where she grew up in Lillooet, B.C. She is a member of the Seton Lake Band in Shalalth, B.C. Dionne spent 15 years in the education system working with Aboriginal students. She is a BSW student and is interested in pursuing research that seeks out the lived experience of those living on reserves and the struggles they face to thrive.
Author of “First Nations Governance and Leadership in Social and Health Services” and “Villages with Smoke Stacks” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
St’at’limc Nation, Ts’Kw’laxw First Nation
Erin grew up surrounded by the mountains of her territory and relocated to Kamloops to pursue her educational goals and raise her family. She is invested in ways social work can revitalize cultural identities and her research areas are focused on the equal distribution of resources to children residing on reserves, particularly children with diverse needs.
Author of “Weaving Indigenous Knowledge into Practice Through Narratives” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
Métis, Saskatchewan
Garnet Dirksen’s ancestors are from Saskatchewan, Canada. Garnet was born and has spent his entire life, in British Columbia. His primary interests are in the visual arts, including photography and sculpture. Within these areas, he is also interested in the depiction of Indigenous peoples by artists and society.
Author of “Thoughts on Photography and Indigeneity” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
Ahnishinaabe, Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation
Jason is completing his Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degree at Thompson Rivers University and is working towards developing an experience-based Aboriginal tourism business on his home reserve to share his culture in a positive and engaging way.
Author of “Authenticity in Aboriginal Research” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
Cold Lake First Nations
Jordan Robinson is a mixed-blood traditional scientist. He grew up moving back and forth between group homes and foster care. Jordan is in the last year of his undergraduate degree in Ecology and Biology of the environment with dreams of cleaning up the environment using traditional methods of water treatment and applied biology. He is passionate about being the difference in his community and knows that in order to really change the world he had to change himself. Jordan’s mindset has led him from being on the verge of suicide, drug addiction, and gang life to being an aggressive and educated Indian
Author of “Between the Two Worlds of a Half Breed” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
Métis
Levi Glass’ Indigenous origins lay in Paddle Prairie, Alberta, two generations removed from his life experience to date. Raised and living in Interior B.C., Levi has pursued the fine arts as a platform to explore ideas about identity and our experience in the world as well as a field that lends itself to a tight-knit community. The fine arts being for Levi Glass a field of both academic and creative work which enables a study of identity and community which he has felt removed from.
Author of “Knowledge Makers, Artist’s Statement” and “The Elastic Form of the Projector” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
Ojibway Nation & Secwepemc Nation
Marcus’ ancestors come from both the Ojibway Nation (Lac des Mille Lacs) and the Secwepemc Nation (Canoe Creek). Marcus is interested in natural resource management and environmental law
Author of “The Importance of Research and the Value of Knowledge Makers” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
Métis/Saulteau First Nations
Melissa is currently finishing her undergraduate degree in Bachelor of Arts program with an English Major and her Aboriginal Studies Certificate. In the future, Melissa plans to go to graduate school so she can work on the social development of Aboriginal peoples in both rural and urban communities.
Author of “Mandatory Indigenous Studies at Thompson Rivers University” in Knowledge Makers First Volume 1
Okanagan Indian Band
He is currently in his third year of the Bachelors of Business Administration program
at Thompson Rivers University, and is the first in his family to pursue post-secondary education. Ryan is double majoring in Marketing and New Ventures. The creative aspect of marketing has always fascinated him as well as the financial freedom entrepreneurship has to offer. Ryan is also an active leader and role model in his community, so he lives a healthy and sober lifestyle. Ryan is also very traditional, he engages in sweat lodge ceremonies, stick games, hunting, gathering, and Nselxcin (Okanagan-Interior Salish language). He is also a well-known champion Prairie Chicken dancer on the powwow trail.
Author of “Aboriginal peoples in Canada have an Absolute Right to Self-Government” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
Tsimshian and Carrier
Trisha is from the Lax Kw’alaams band in Port Simpson, BC, and she is also from the Chestlatta band in Burns Lake, BC. She is from the eagle clan. Trisha is in her fourth year of the Bachelor of Social Work. She is also a third-year Aboriginal mentor at her school. Trisha hopes to empower and inspire new Indigenous generations to make positive changes. Her current goal is to work with Aboriginal youth in different communities.
Author of “Identity Politics: Indigenous or Aboriginal?” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
Graduate
Faculty and Elders
Pakeha and Samoan
Airini researches equity in post-secondary education (policy, practices, teaching), especially how
universities can support exceptional levels of Indigenous student success.
Author of “Forward and Acknowledgements” and “Being Who We Were Called to Be in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
Aboriginal, French-Canadian, English
Thompson Rivers University
Professor Walton supports and challenges the online preferences of Aboriginal university students. He is interested in the use of singing and movement to teach language and reading to young children, and the use of iPad apps to help teach Aboriginal languages.
Author of “Aboriginals were Always Researchers” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
Kanienkehaka (Mohawk)
Thompson Rivers University
Regional BC Government (BCIC) Research chair in Aboriginal health and education.
Rod’s specific focus of research on Indigenous mental health.
Author of “Random Thoughts About Indigenous Research” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
Thompson Rivers University Associate Vice President, Research
Author of “On Why Indigenous Research Matters at Thompson Rivers University” in Knowledge Makers Volume 1
The Volumes
To view information on any of our previous volumes, learn about the authors, or access the free PDF of the journal click the volume you wish to see to open that tab.
The Ninth Volume
As we look back on 2023, this year marked a significant chapter in the journey of our Knowledge Makers Journal. Beginning with our annual workshop in February, this volume’s cohort embarked on an inspiring path of research and writing. A highlight of the year was a transformative two-week immersive learning exchange in Aotearoa, where our students engaged with Maori hosts at Waikato University, deepening their understanding of Indigenous knowledge.
This edition presents a compelling collection of essays, research, and reflections from Indigenous students across a wide range of disciplines at TRU. Each contribution offers a distinct voice, shedding light on the intersections of Indigenous knowledge, contemporary challenges, and personal journeys, enriching the ongoing dialogues of decolonization and reconciliation.
The Eighth Volume
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.
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 Seventh Volume
Please check back later for more on this Volume
The Sixth Volume
As we reflect upon the year 2021, it becomes evident that it stood apart from any other in recent memory. Amidst the challenging backdrop of a global pandemic, our collective sense of unity and togetherness underwent a remarkable transformation, driven by an unwavering commitment to prioritize safety and well-being.
In line with these extraordinary times, the 2021 journal edition took on a distinct character of its own. Within its pages, we celebrated a diverse tapestry of contributors, encompassing not only undergraduates but also a spectrum of accomplished individuals ranging from esteemed alumni, exceptional PhD students, and dedicated masters candidates, to our revered Elders and esteemed faculty members.
The Fifth Volume
Our 2020 journal had 21 contributors. We begin with a remembering of Elder Estella Patrick-Moller, to whom this journal is dedicated, and her inspiring ways and words. The papers within helped us to discover the interconnectedness of the path we walk and the impact of tourism on Indigenous cultures and communities.
We discuss the impact and natural ecological influences that climate change left on Indigenous women. We discuss the preservation of culture through art and the value of holding onto traditional Indigenous ways in contemporary times.
We close with a quote from Elder Estella “Being part of Knowledge Makers has opened up a door that I thought might never happen in my lifetime. I’m just so grateful now that all the knowledge that I have is not going to get lost. I’m so proud of you.”
The Fourth Volume
Our 2019 journal had 24 contributors. We open with Sandra Bandura, who reflects on the words of the Knowledge Makers who came before her and the lessons that they offer: “They are the front line, the leaders, and the inspiration for me and others. By using their voices, I demonstrate the idea of interconnected knowledge and our connection to each other.”
We then share our thoughts on dismantling the Eurocentric foundations of social work, addressing the racism inherent in the justice system, and the impact of colonization on language retention. From there we discuss the loss of medicinal plants, responses to macroaggressions, seeing justice for our communities, healing from addiction, and residential schools.
We reflect on our family histories and how they tie to the wider colonial project, and the failure of the justice system to uphold the honour of our families, and we ask Thompson Rivers University to uphold its commitment to Indigenous learners. We close with Stephanie Tour and her reflections on learning to “jig in both worlds” as she balances Indigenous knowledge-making and the academy.
The Third Volume
Our 2018 journal had 21 contributors. We open with Aaron Fredborg, who explores the impact of the current K-12 system on Indigenous students and suggests a way forward that is inclusive of all learners.
We share our thoughts on Indigenous research, the importance of our languages and cultural practices in resurgence, self-determination, and self-governance, and how our epistemologies can interact with Western epistemologies. We reflect on authentic tourism experiences, the cultural and ecological impacts of declining salmon stocks, and our own biases.
Our last article comes from Roxie Defant, who urges us to “forget decolonization and reconciliation” and “start with radical cultural resurgence.” We close with words from Elder Mike Arnouse, who reminds us what we do as Indigenous researchers is share our people’s knowledge, and stories in ways that are inspired by Coyote. This has been a great journey that is a privilege to share with everyone.
The Second Volume
Our 2017 journal had 22 contributors. We open with Marina Troke’s paper on the critical potency (like ‘lightning’) of Indigenous researchers being knowledge makers.
The following papers then weaved together knowledge-making with identity, youth, art, research methods, international understandings, technology, social work, e-portfolios, substance abuse, communication, researcher mentoring, culture and politics, tourism, cultural safety, sustainable hunting, achievement in post-secondary education, Secwépemc research, and Secwépemc epistemology.
Past Knowledge Makers and established Indigenous scholars were threaded alongside the undergraduate Knowledge Makers’ papers, further strengthening our expanding Knowledge Makers research community.
We closed with Elder Mike Arnouse’s words, who reminded us that we come from strength; through our work together as knowledge makers we draw on our “original capabilities.” It is this collective strength, this potential, that is so present throughout this Knowledge Makers journal.
The First Volume
Our 2016 journal had 21 contributors. We opened with Marcus Scherer’s reflections on his participation in Knowledge Makers, which reminds us of the importance of research and how research and education have shaped us all.
We then shared our thoughts on Indigenous research methodologies, photography, education, governance, law, environment, and identity.
We closed with Elder Mike Arnouse, whose words took us back to a moment in time where we shared stories, laughter, and song, and reminded us that our efforts today can influence future possibilities.
Author Biographies
Why a biography?
We are gathering author bios from the contributors of the Knowledge Makers Journal to highlight your unique perspectives and accomplishments, showcasing the diverse talents within our community. We hope that these bios serve as a valuable tool for enhancing your professional and academic careers, by providing a platform to gain recognition and connect with broader networks. Our aim is to help amplify your voices and open doors to future opportunities.