Braiding Knowledges Canada attends the 16th Canadian Science Policy Conference

At the BKC booth, we connected with a wide range of participants, from researchers and policymakers to Indigenous leaders and practitioners. The conference offered an excellent opportunity to showcase our initiatives and deepen our relationships with those eager to learn about and support our work. Attendees stopped by to pick up BKC swag and to engage in important conversations about the braiding of Indigenous knowledge systems and Western science.

The CSPC 2024 theme—"Empowering Society: The Transformative Value of Science, Knowledge, and Innovation"—was reflected across several tracks, including Science, Knowledge and Policy; Science, Knowledge and Society; Innovation, Policy and Economic Development; Science and the Next Generation, and Grand Challenges.

Exploring the Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Science Policy

One of the most impactful sessions we attended was the "Indigenous Science, Knowledge and Policy" symposium. This session explored a variety of issues affecting Indigenous communities, including self-determined food systems, sovereignty, and the long-term impact of resource exploitation in the North on local ecosystems.

A key takeaway from the session was the importance of recognizing the plurality of Indigenous worldviews and the role of place-based, interdisciplinary, and intergenerational knowledge transfer in these systems. Indigenous science was discussed as the practical application of this knowledge, rooted in deep observation, lived experience, and a connection to the land that spans much longer periods of time than traditional scientific methods. This knowledge, guided by spiritual and ethical values, is in a state of recovery after centuries of disruption, and it will likely take seven generations to fully restore.

The panel also explored the words we use to describe the relationship between Indigenous knowledge and Western science. Terms like “braiding,” “bridging,” and “weaving” were suggested as alternatives to the word “integrating,” which can imply a form of assimilation rather than a respectful and reciprocal exchange of knowledge. True reconciliation, the session emphasized, must go beyond science and research—it must be rooted in understanding, truth, and healing broken relationships.

The Need for a Science Strategy in the Arctic

Another session we attended was titled "Why Canada Needs an Arctic Science Strategy." Despite covering 40% of the Canadian landmass, Canada is the only Arctic nation without a dedicated strategy for Arctic science. Indigenous Peoples in the North, who are disproportionately affected by climate change, pollution, and economic inequality, must be central to the development of this strategy. The time to act is now, and Indigenous leadership must be at the forefront of shaping this critical initiative.

Supporting the Call to Action for Reconciliation

On the final night of the conference, we had the honor of attending the screening of the documentary Signal Fire, led by BKC Board and Committee members Laurence Ignance and Mary Jane Johnson. The film complements the paper "Towards Reconciliation: 10 Calls to Action for Natural Scientists Working in Canada," which provides essential guidance for researchers seeking to build mutually respectful relationships with Indigenous communities. These calls to action highlight the need for researchers to acknowledge the harm caused by colonialism and work toward the decolonization of science. The film reminds us that science, often seen as the ultimate validator of truth, is part of a colonial project that needs to recognize Indigenous ways of knowing—not as competing systems, but as essential contributors to the broader understanding of the world around us.

BKC is proud to have supported this initiative, which encourages scientists to rethink their role in reconciliation and to give up a bit of power in order to build respectful, reciprocal relationships with Indigenous communities.

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on our experience at CSPC 2024, we are filled with hope and optimism for the future of science and policy in Canada. The conversations we had, the relationships we built, and the initiatives we supported all reinforce the importance of braiding Indigenous and Western knowledges. The work is not easy, but the impact is profound. We are stronger together, united in our commitment to reconciliation and to building a more equitable future for all.

To learn more about Signal Fire and the 10 Calls to Action, watch the documentary here: signalfirefilm.ca

We look forward to continuing these conversations and making even greater strides together in the future!