1. k̓itqawiȼikniyam

For things to be connected together

Relationships between Ktunaxa people and non-Ktunaxa researchers must start before conception of the research project. Appropriate resources, compensation and time should be invested to create and sustain these relationships. Recognizing dominant models of research are often deadline based, it is important to understand that these relationships need to move at the speed of trust, ensuring safety for all researchers involved. Connecting early with Elders and Knowledge Holders (via the Traditional Knowledge & Language [TKL] sector) is essential for guidance and direction on appropriate contacts and processes for your inquiry.

2. niʔ ya ksuʔkiǂupxa

One who still knows something well

Ktunaxa science, built on millennia-old knowledge systems, is valid and rigorous. Learning from Ktunaxa experts to ground activities in locally-specific and culturally-informed protocols, language, methodologies and ways of knowing is strongly encouraged (see examples here). For example, forming an advisory group of Elders and Knowledge Holders, with budgeting for adequate time and compensation for accessing this expertise throughout projects, is appropriate. Consult TKL for up-to-date honoraria rates and for local catering recommendations for all events and meetings. Whenever possible, employ Ktunaxa-endorsed service providers while in ʔamak̓is Ktunaxa.

5. sukiǂq̓apikimik

To do everything with a good heart

Research needs to be reviewed and authorized by the Ktunaxa Research Ethics Committee through their application process prior to other institutional ethics boards. All research and all members of the research team are accountable to Ktunaxa Nation’s Code of Ethics for Research (find here) and other Ktunaxa policies, and these policies supersede any other institutional policies that govern researchers’ activities.

6. ksukiǂ hakiǂ wiȼkiǂin kupxaǂ

To care for, to carry forward, knowledge

The Ktunaxa Nation remain the rightful steward of all research and results from work within Amakʔis Ktunaxa. Data belongs to all participants involved in the research; as such, participants, including their family members and subsequent generations, can access data indefinitely. Ktunaxa Nation Council (KNC) should steward the data and control its access. By default, data should be anonymized. However, researchers should honour participants’ requests for direct attribution when appropriate.

7. ktunwakakin kupxaǂ

To uncover knowledge

Cultural knowledge and ownership of knowledge is an integral part of the collective identity, cultural preservation and self-determination of the Ktunaxa Nation, and should not be exploited or coopted under any circumstances. Appropriate cultural authorities decide if and how information or other creative outputs (e.g. images, videos, audio recordings) are shared. Non- Ktunaxa individuals do not dictate changes or modifications. Reports, publications, grant applications, presentations and any other forms of knowledge sharing should privilege Ktunaxa voices, create space for Ktunaxa language and reflect Ktunaxa knowledge, ways of knowing and ways of sharing information.

KNOWLEDGE SHARING EXAMPLES:

• Present data in block quotes to preserve nuance whenever possible.
• Host research reports and media on KNC’s website; other communication channels can redirect to this source.
• Use plain language and avoid jargon or technical terminology.
• Embed and contextualize research findings within the local cultural setting—avoid translation across cultural domains or extrapolating to pan-Indigenous generalizations.

The xaȼqanaǂ ʔitkiniǂ Many Ways of Working on the Same Thing project

The xaȼqanaǂ ʔitkiniǂ project is bringing non-Indigenous and Indigenous knowledgeholders together, in meaningful and anti-colonial relationship, to co-design solutions that promote equitable health outcomes across the Ktunaxa Nation. Overseen by Ktunaxa Elders and Knowledge Holders in the xaȼqanaǂ ʔitkiniǂ Advisory Group, Phase 1 of this project (2018-2020) focused on the development of a mutually meaningful Ktunaxa Community Model of Wellness (report here). Informed by this model, our team is now co-designing solutions to the problem of disconnection to promote the health of Ktunaxa Nation citizens and those who live within ʔamak̓is Ktunaxa.