Project Summary:
Native American communities face significant health challenges rooted in colonization's disruption of traditional ways of life and Minobiimaadiiziiwin (a healthy way of living). Historical trauma, systemic poverty, and the disconnect from cultural practices have contributed to both physical and spiritual health challenges for these communities. Research has shown that culture-based programs in tribal communities produce positive results, particularly in areas such as substance abuse prevention. However, there is still a pressing need to invest in research and data initiatives led by tribes and Native American Serving Organizations.
The Waaswaaganing Indigenous Institute will implement a Community-Based Participatory Qualitative Research Storytelling Program (CBPQR) that brings together scientific Native American professors, elders, and community members as equal partners. This approach emphasizes Indigenous knowledge systems and methodologies, recognizing unique determinants of health such as spirituality, collective resilience, historical trauma, and traditional healing practices. The project will develop culturally grounded frameworks for understanding and addressing health disparities while providing training opportunities to share Indigenous values and adapt interventions to tribal community contexts.
This initiative aims to connect present-day health interventions with traditional cultural knowledge to shape a better health future for these communities. Through storytelling and community-based participatory research, the project will strengthen identity and relationships, embrace traditional means of knowledge production, and apply indigenous concepts of health and healing. The ultimate goal is to support good indigenous mental health— Minobiimaadiiziiwin—by creating health programs built on indigenous methods and teachings rather than adopting solutions from non-native communities.
Community Partners: Lakeland Union High School, Peter Christensen Health Center, Lac du Flambeau Tribe, Ojibwe Elder Teachers, Lac du Flambeau Tribal Education, Healthy Community Action Team