Research

The Institute conducts research on the issues related to the revitalization of Indigenous laws, including:

  • Legal issues
  • Environmental issues
  • Economic issues
  • Social/Cultural issues

We have provided clients with self-governance materials, including assisting with election codes, citizenship codes, and land codes. We complete intensive research on self-governance strategies to assist clients with developing these self-governance tools. In the past, we have helped create a comprehensive restorative justice program to assist clients in navigating the family and criminal court process. The Institute is also interested in completing work on building sustainable economies, environmental interests, and Indigenous Human Rights - specifically regarding the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

The following questions will help guide an understanding of the Mino-waabandan Inaakonigewinan Indigenous Law and Justice Institute’s research process:

How is our research conducted?

  1. We assign a research protocol for each project, so organizations and communities can feel assured that all materials and research will be kept confidential.
  2. We work collaboratively with communities, engaging in meaningful discussion to ensure we meet your needs according to the designated protocol and timeline.
  3. address issues on the client’s terms and work only by invitation. We are here to assist with the organization/community needs but will only complete the work that you request of us.
  4. We recognize that the revitalization of Indigenous laws is a necessary part of working towards self-governance and the revitalization of our communities and is essential for reconciliation between Indigenous peoples and the Canadian Justice System.

We partner with Indigenous communities and organizations to research specific areas of their law. We conduct research in the following ways:

  1. Literature Reviews
  2. Oral Narratives
  3. One-on-One Interviews
  4. Focus Groups
  5. Legislative and Jurisprudential Analysis

What happens after we complete our research?

Before the final product is presented and with the client’s consent, we will seek further guidance from community members and the respective organization. We will ask any of the following to review our material:

  1. Chief and Council
  2. Community working groups
  3. Community members
  4. Employees

What does the final product look like?

The final product is different with every request for assistance. Typically, we will deliver a final report at community gatherings, conferences, one-on-one meetings, or online platforms. We will meet with our client to ensure that the final report is satisfactory and accurate.

Should the client be amenable to publishing the final report, we can discuss publishing details at this stage.