“To Speak in Our Own Ways About the World, Without Shame”: Reflections on Indigenous Resurgence in Anti-Oppressive Research

Abstract

This chapter focuses on how Indigenous perspectives shape anti-oppressive research, specifically through reflections on identity, voice, decolonization, and indigenous resurgence. Situated within a sociopolitical struggle for decolonization, the author explores how arts-based anti-oppressive research promotes Indigenous resurgence. The author highlights how Indigenous resurgence as a co-constructive voice in anti-oppressive research can promote the active healing of Indigenous peoples and embodies anti-colonial resistance. Throughout the chapter, the author reflects upon the possibilities of Indigenous resurgence in anti-oppressive research through the use of a layered approach to auto-ethnography, drawing on memories, reflections, and stories. The author highlights various notions of Indigenous resurgence and active anti-hegemonic resistance, as well as models the use of an arts-based method as a means of Indigenous knowledge production.

Afterword

As I review my journey in anti-oppressive research, I am reminded of a few things: first, I recognize that my entire process of formation as an Indigenous researcher-educator-activist has been shaped and nurtured by a community. To be involved in anti-oppressive work, our lives need to be grounded in relationships which can nurture, challenge, and deepen our commitments. Second, I am reminded that liberation is a complex struggle. It is not something that happens overnight, nor with absolute clarity. For me it is a constant process of learning and failing forward. To be anti-oppressive we must nurture boldness and humility. Finally, the awareness of Indigenous suffering does not alone motivate my work, but also love for my people. Anti-oppressive activist-scholarship is not sustained by deficits and marginalization, but rather, by a loving vision of what could be. For me, that is the heart of being an Indigenous scholar, being guided by decolonial hope, a love that yearns for the flourishing of all of my relations