Abstract

This study explores the question ‘How can collaborative research contribute to Indigenous resistance and resurgence?’ Set in the context of the community’s broader vision of self-governance, I examine strategies and tools used by Kwantlen First Nation to consolidate and communicate their ongoing cultural connections to their lands and resources. The research process follows an Indigenous relational approach guided by Kwantlen First Nation’s seven traditional laws - šxʷʔəy̓eɬ (health), hiləkʷ (happiness), ʔəwə cen smet̕ᶿənen (humbleness), xʷlil̕əq (generosity), syəw̓enəɬ, šxʷwéləy ʔiʔ sʔəy̓éq (generations), q̓ʷal̕təl̕ (forgiveness), tə́lnəxʷ (understanding). The research followed sought for ways to (re)work with previously conducted community-driven research through open-ended and ongoing conversations with Kwantlen First Nation leadership and staff, as well as opportunities to participate in community and cultural events. The thesis is comprised of two manuscripts. The first details the steps that have been taken by Kwantlen First Nation leadership to rebuild their community through reclamation of cultural protocols, governance systems and laws. Their struggles and successes are highlighted as well as the imperatives that inform their engagement with outsiders. The second manuscript is a co-authored piece with Kwantlen First Nation collaborators and my research advisor. It demonstrates how relational research can contribute to meaningful (re)storying of previously conducted community-driven research through the creation of digital tools (ArcGIS StoryMap). The advantages and limitations of this project are discussed as well as approaches and processes of collaboration. Overall, this thesis has sought to contribute tə́lnəxʷ (understanding) through syəw̓enəɬ, šxʷwéləy ʔiʔ sʔəy̓éq (generations) of Kwantlen First Nation connection to S’ólh Téméxw (lands).