Indigenous Knowledge Gathering: Indigenous Knowledge & Transboundary Waterways - How Can We Collaborate More Effectively? (2021)
The IJC held a virtual Indigenous Knowledge Gathering, Indigenous Knowledge & Transboundary Waterways-How can we collaborate more effectively, on April 9 and 10, 2021. This gathering was developed and led collaboratively by the IJC, Indigenous advisers, knowledge keepers, members of the academic community and water resources practitioners who have worked with the IJC and/or on transboundary water issues. The main objectives were to learn, through case studies and experiences, the benefits and challenges of working together and sharing different types of knowledge. The workshop identified key themes and learning points that the IJC will carry forward into its collaborative work with Indigenous Peoples.
Indigenous Knowledge: Lived Experiences and Valuable Perspectives Interview Series (2020)
In the summer and fall of 2020, the IJC conducted interviews for a series of newsletter articles on lessons for improving inclusion of Indigenous collaboration in IJC work. Interviewees included the first Indigenous Commissioner to serve on the IJC, Henry Lickers, Indigenous members serving on IJC boards and non-Indigenous IJC-affiliates who aided the Commission in enhancing Indigenous engagement in transboundary basins. The IJC is grateful for the knowledge and experiences shared by interviewees regarding overcoming challenges and developing long-lasting and respectful relationships while working with Indigenous Peoples.
Niagara Workshop (2019)
An IJC workshop in May of 2019 in the Niagara region of Ontario helped gather ideas on how the Commission could improve the inclusion and engagement of Indigenous Peoples in transboundary work. This was the first time the Commission organized a gathering of Indigenous members from its boards, Indigenous peoples involved in current IJC work and representatives of Nations within transboundary watersheds that fall under IJC’s mandate. This workshop was not only a first step, but a commitment from the Commission in what will be a continuing relationship between the IJC and Indigenous Peoples involved with the event.