Gaudet, Janice Cindy

Human Kinetics Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Ottawa, 2016.

Presents a woman's narrative in which she explores her history as a Métis woman.

Explores question of whether or not lost indigenous knowledge of women's power can be reclaimed for women's health and well-being.

Examines an Indigenous research methodology practiced by the author during their PhD research with the Omushkego people, the Moose Cree First Nation (Moose Factory, Ontario, Canada). Centers on Métis and Cree ways of being, milo pimatisiwin (the good life), relationality, land-based pedagogy, and Indigenous values. Focuses on decolonizing research by prioritizing kinship and community values.

Authors examine the ways that gathering to share knowledge and community affects the wellness of Métis women; focus on themes of (a) Importance of Métis women gathering together; (b) Visiting is changing; (c) Learning-by-doing and kinship; (d) Métis women’s gatherings, community, and wellness; (e) Métis-specific spaces to share stories; and (f) Pride in Métis women’s identity.

Describes an initiative in the Moose Cree First Nation community which focused on the Cree philosophy milo pimatisiwin (good and healthy living). Discusses program elements which included land-based initiatives, sharing teachings over the local radio, and feedback from youth.

Looks at the program Promoting Life Skills for Aboriginal Youth (PLAY) which is focused helping youth gain skills to become leaders in their communities.

Looks at some basic definitions of the participatory research subtypes including community-based research and participatory action research.

Uses a relational accountability methodology to discuss the role of Indigenous women scholars in regard to reconciliation within Canadian universities and academia.

Results of research conducted through 49 one-on-one interviews and 10 sharing circles.