The Long Story of an Indigenous Health Research Project

Abstract

Indigenous health inequities represent a significant challenge for health research and programming. The research seeking to address these inequities also faces significant challenges. To guide researchers through these challenges, several resources exist. That said, the real world of Indigenous research is complex and contains much that, experience suggests, is not accounted for by existing resources. Therefore, this article tells the full and honest story of conducting research within largely Western systems the barriers they present to Indigenous community-based health research that respects self-determination and culture. When relevant to discussion, examples will be provided from a recently completed COVID-19 vaccine promotion research project. In telling this story, many questions are posed, some of these are tentatively answered, and many are left for contemplation and future work. When answers are provided, they often stem from personal experience, and so, conclusions should be approached cautiously. Regardless, prioritizing respectful and authentic relationships appears to be a universal compass that can guide researchers to the good way. Still, more consistent and honest reporting of barriers, failures, and opportunities may be needed to truly reflect the challenging realities of ethical Indigenous research.