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Despite considerable investment, health outcomes for First Nations people are well below those of the rest of the population in several countries, including Canada, the United States, and Australia. In this article, the authors draw on actor-network theory and the case of Birthing on Country, a successful policy initiative led by First Nations Australians, to explore the decolonization of health services. Using publicly available archival data and the theoretical guidance of actor-network theory, the analysis offers insight into how marketing techniques and technologies can be deployed to achieve improved health outcomes and implement decolonized approaches. The insights provided have theoretical implications for marketing scholarship, social implications for understanding and implementing an agenda of decolonization, and practical implications for health care marketing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractObjectiveDesignStudy SampleResultsConclusionsTargeted early detection programs for otitis media exist for First Nations populations across several countries, with variable success reported. Health professionals are in a unique position to evaluate factors that may impact on programme success. This research therefore aims to understand: “What factors do health professionals view as influencing the success of otitis media detection programs for First Nations children?”A scoping review, including a systematic search and synthesis of qualitative research on this topic, was conducted using adapted PRISMA and JBI guidelines. Articles were critically appraised using tools to assess their methodological quality and cultural safety.Seven sources published between 2003 and 2022 met the review inclusion criteria.Two major themes of Health Resource Access and Person and Family Centred Care were identified. Health Resource Access was further explored through three sub-themes examining Client, Practitioner and Service access. Subthemes related to Person and Family Centred Care included Cultural Safety, Health Service Collaboration, Health Education and Consumer Partnerships.The voices of health professionals are largely missing from conversations on otitis media detection for First Nations children. Health professionals can provide unique insights into service delivery that compliment those of parents and care-givers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This manuscript delves into Indigenous experiences of disability, specifically the Quandamooka community, starting with contextualising disability among First Nations people in Australia. It summarises criticisms of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and offers historical insights into Quandamooka country and Indigenous disability in Australia. Central to this manuscript are Quandamooka caring principles which highlight disability's cultural significance and its triadic essence within Quandamooka society. Collectively, these principles underpin social connections, encompassing elements like collective wisdoms and the custodial ethic. These foundations yield pillars of collective protection, activated through kinship circles. These insights resonate with disability themes for Maori peoples where fostering compassion, acceptance, support, and interdependence are important for well-being. Points of interest: Indigenous communities historically had sustainable care systems deeply connected to nature and mutual respect, emphasising the interdependence of individuals in supporting each other. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can sideline the needs of Indigenous communities due to its predominantly Western/Global North influence, resulting in limited access to necessary support. Indigenous knowledge, rooted in an understanding of nature's interconnectedness, offers valuable insights for creating inclusive care systems beneficial to everyone. Embracing Indigenous perspectives on disability and care is crucial for developing fairer and more balanced care systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on the development and implementation of restorative justice policy and practice for First Nations Peoples in Queensland. Using diverse public source materials to produce a summary history and assessment of the Queensland experience, the study found that restorative justice can provide an appropriate response to crime within First Nations communities, but that programmes have had limited application and utilisation to-date. The findings suggest that programmes must involve First Nations Peoples in programme design and delivery, while addressing the systemic disadvantages faced by these communities through a substantial increase in government investment. The study identified the need for increased application of restorative justice and enhanced research on programme outcomes; acknowledging the need to increase attention to victims' needs and experiences. The paper also recognised the need for more First Nations led research to explore how restorative justice programmes can be enhanced to improve outcomes for First Nations Peoples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aboriginal Australians experience a high prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with high rates of potentially preventable hospitalisations. However, little is known about Aboriginal peoples' experiences of living with COPD and how they navigate health care systems. This study used thematic analysis and Aboriginal methodology to explore Aboriginal peoples' lived experiences of COPD, their health care journey from receiving a diagnosis of COPD to the clinical management, and the impact of COPD on their daily lives. We conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews over a 6-month period with 18 Aboriginal adults diagnosed with COPD from four Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHS) in New South Wales, Australia. Reflexive thematic analysis was employed to ensure rigour. The findings revealed deeply personal and reflective stories shaped by historical, social, and cultural realities of Aboriginal peoples living with COPD. Four themes were identified characterising their experiences. Based on the findings, the following guidance is provided on future COPD care for Aboriginal peoples: Better alignment of existing COPD management with Aboriginal peoples' cultural contexts and perspectives to improve access to culturally safe care; Increased funding for ACCHS to enhance COPD management, such as early detection through case finding and access to ACCHS-led pulmonary rehabilitation; Engaging family members in COPD management and providing culturally centred COPD education that facilitates discussions and builds health literacy and self-management skills; Implementing health promotion initiatives to increase awareness and counteract fear and shame to improve early COPD detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To gain culturally appropriate awareness of First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis Health, research suggests that programs focus on sending more trainees to First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis communities Working within this context provides experiences and knowledge that build upon classroom education and support trainees' acquisition of skills to engage in culturally safe healthcare provision. This study examines residents' and faculty members' perceptions of how residency training programs can optimize First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis health training and support residents in gaining the knowledge, skills, and experiences for working in and with First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis communities. Methods: A qualitative approach was used, guided by a relational lens for collecting data and a constructivist grounded theory for data interpretation. Theoretical sampling was used to recruit 35 participants from three main study sites across two western Canadian provinces. Recruitment, data collection, and analysis using constructivist grounded theory occurred concurrently to ensure appropriate depth of exploration. Results: Our data analysis revealed five themes: Five themes were generated: Complexity of voluntourism as a concept; Diversity of knowledge representation required for developing curriculum; Effective models of care for First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis health; Essential traits that residents should have for working in First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis communities; and Building relationships and trust by engaging the community. Conclusions: First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis Health should be prioritized within Canadian postgraduate medical education. Equipping trainees to provide holistic care, immersing in and learning from First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis communities is essential for developing the next generation of clinicians and preceptors. We present educational recommendations for residency programs to optimize First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis health educational experiences and provide residents with skills to provide effective and culturally safe care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Injury causes significant burden on Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. However, a considerable portion of the research conducted in this area has been carried out by Western researchers. It has been acknowledged that historical research methodologies and discourses around Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research may not be suitable or beneficial. Co-production methodologies offer opportunities for research to be developed collaboratively ensuring meaningfulness of results and appropriate protection for participants. A scoping review was undertaken to investigate the use of co-production methodologies in research within the unintentional injuries space for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities over time. Main body: A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, ProQuest, Embase and Indigenous Health Infonet databases. Study characteristics, remoteness, injury topic, co-production methods and elements were extracted from eligible studies. The search revealed 4175 papers, from which 39 studies were included in this scoping review. It was found that 69% of studies were fully co-produced with community. Studies predominately focused on general injury, falls prevention or brain injury rehabilitation. The most heavily utilised co-production strategy was the inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers into the writing and research team. This helped the collection of culturally safe data and appropriate interpretation of results. Conclusion: There is growing diversity among co-production methodologies, better enabling meaningful engagement between community and research. This co-production helps decolonise the research process to privilege Aboriginal voices, however, more work is needed to appropriately capture Indigenous perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the dietary patterns of First Nations is crucial for addressing health disparities and promoting well-being. Historical assaults (colonization and loss of control over their lands) have strongly altered dietary practices and impacted health outcomes for generations. Canada conducts regular surveys to assess the extent to which individuals adhere to dietary guidelines. However, Indigenous peoples living on reserves are excluded from these surveys. This study aims to assess the diet quality of First Nations adults using the Healthy Eating Food Index-2019 (HEFI-2019) and the Canadian Healthy Eating Index 2007 (C-HEI 2007) and identify their influencing factors. Data were collected from adults (19 years and older) across ninety-two First Nations communities throughout Canada. Participants provided information on sociodemographic factors and dietary intake using structured questionnaires and 24 h dietary recalls. Statistical analyses included mean scores and regression models to assess associations between dietary indices and influencing factors. The mean HEFI-2019 and C-HEI 2007 scores among First Nations adults were 35/80 and 49/100, respectively, indicating suboptimal adherence to dietary guidelines compared to the Canadian population. Factors such as region, age, sex, education level, number of working people in the household, smoking status, and traditional food intake significantly influenced diet quality. This study underscores the importance of understanding and improving the diet quality of First Nations adults as measured by HEFI-2019 and C-HEI 2007 scores. While acknowledging the low adherence to dietary guidelines, particularly in younger age groups, the study highlights the positive influence of traditional foods on diet quality within Indigenous communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past decades, truth-telling commissions aimed at uncovering, confronting and providing justice for the past treatment of children have been established in many countries, including the Australian Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse (RCIRCSA 2013-2017) and the Norwegian Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) (2018-2023). Journalism plays important roles both in triggering commissions of inquiry and in attracting public attention to their work and findings. This paper investigates media reporting on the RCIRCSA and the TRC. The Commissions were not similar in scale, scope or legal powers, however, they both generated spaces for public listening to stories about the consequences of past policies and present practices of child removal, abuse and racism that potentially could change the grand narratives of each nation. Our findings suggest that future commissions should pay particular attention to the structural power of news logics and mediation. We find, despite the widely different cases, consistent patterns of uneven and hierarchical media reporting and overshadowing of First Nations voices and aspirations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Adoption and refinement of monitoring and management techniques is important for improving the conservation status of threatened fauna, especially in remote areas with high logistical and financial costs. In Australia, many of these remote conservation projects are conducted by Traditional Owners and Indigenous Ranger groups, with input and support from various stakeholders including government and non-government organisations, and third-party ecologists. A collaborative approach to project development and adaptive management in response to stakeholder objectives is essential for long-term project success. Aims: In the remote context of the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands, we collaboratively develop a sustainable and robust monitoring and management method for warru (black-flanked rock wallabies) that recognises the skills, interests, and capacity of all project members. In developing this method over 22 years, we also evaluate the influence of rainfall and predator-control strategies on warru populations to inform optimised management. Methods: Practical and economic capabilities and preferences of both Traditional Owners and external scientists for monitoring and management actions were evaluated. Data from long-term cage trapping, and scat and spotlight counts of warru were compared with population trajectories, annual rainfall, and management strategies. Key results: Population indices with lower resource requirements, such as scat and spotlight counts, provide trends consistent with more resource-intensive capture–mark–recapture studies. The warru scat index was negatively associated with the scat index for a competing herbivore (kanyala, euro). Warru growth rates were positively influenced by rainfall. Contrary to initial results from other regions, warru populations declined during periods when we undertook predator baiting. By contrast, targeted shooting of feral cats and foxes was associated with increased warru population growth rates. Conclusions: These results suggest that a minimum of four groups of five scat quadrats in prime refuge areas and equivalent sampling in prime feeding zones (total 40 quadrats) is appropriate for rock-wallaby monitoring. Predator control via shooting appears preferable to baiting, which may have negative effects by removing dingoes, which prey on the competing kanyala. Implications: Predator control via shooting is an effective way to support warru populations, and repeated scat counts are an effective monitoring approach for warru. Nganana, ngurintjaku ngaranyi, panya yaaltji-yaaltjingkula. Anangu Tjuta alpamilalku kuka panya mawiyaringkunytja tjuta atunymara kanyintjaku ngurangka. Waaka tjutawanungkula nyakukatingi munu numpa tjuta tjunangi munu alpamilaningi warru tjuta New Well-lawanu. Waaka nyanga paluru ngarakatingi, 1999-nguru, 2021 ku wangkara. Warruku kuna tjutala nyangangi munu nampa tjunangi munula nyangangi tili pulkawanungku palunyatjananya nyakunytjikitjangku. Nganana kulira witinintjikitjangku palya warru nyakunytjikitjangku, palu mani pulka munu waaka kunpu warru witintjaku. Nyanga paluru wirunya ngarangi munu mani tjukutjuku, ka alatjingkalta Anangu tjutaku kutjupa kutjupa tjutaku mani ma-tjunkuku. Nganana wangkanyi panya alatji palyantjaku. Panya manta 8-pala ngaranyi. Kala alatji pukarangku warruku kuna tjuta nampa tjunkuku, manta 8-pala nyara palulanguru. Warru Tjuta winkiringu kapingku pulkara year winkingku puintjitjangka munu ngaya inura tjuta, papa inura tjutakulula pauningi nyara palularangka. Palu patjina tjunkuntjitjangku ma-mankurparingu munu kanyala tjutangku warru tjutaku mai ngalkula wiyaningi. Patjinangkukula papa inura tjuta iluntanangi panya papa paluru tjana kanyala munu papa panya nyatji pulkanya patjara ngalkupayi. Ka ngaya inura tjuta munu papa inura nyantji pulka tjutakutju nyakukatinytjaku munu palunyatjananya kutja iluntankutjaku. Alatjikula mukuringanyi palyantjikitja. We reviewed how the trajectories of a warru population (black-flanked rock wallaby) in the Aṉangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands of remote northern South Australia responded to rainfall and to different predator-control strategies. Repeated scat counts provided a robust index of population changes while requiring less overall logistical and financial costs than did correlated mark–recapture estimates. The 22-year dataset showed positive response of warru to rainfall and to management of invasive predators by shooting, but not by baiting. Photograph by John Read. This article belongs to the collection: Indigenous and cross-cultural wildlife research in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: PTB increases the risk of health problems such as chronic renal disease and diabetes in later life and adverse impacts are inversely correlated with gestational age at birth. Rates of PTB in the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia are amongst the highest nationally and globally, with First Nations babies most affected. This study assessed the magnitude and potential drivers of intergenerational PTB recurrence in the NT. Methods: A retrospective intergenerational cohort study (1986–2017) was conducted amongst 5,366 mothers born singleton who had 9,571 singleton live births (7,673 First Nations, and 1,898 non-First Nations babies). Maternal and offspring PTB was categorised as early (< 34 weeks) and late (34–36 gestational weeks). Modified Poisson regression was used to estimate the relative risk (RR) of PTB associated with maternal PTB, adjusting for moderators such as receipt of antenatal care prior to the offspring PTB. Secondary analyses assessed the impact of additional adjustment for conditions with a familial component, or that PTB predisposes to, on the risk estimate. Mediation analysis assessed the degree of mediation of maternal-offspring PTB relationships by these conditions. Results: Overall, First Nations women born preterm (< 37 weeks) had an increased risk of delivering before 37 gestational weeks (aRR 1.28; 95%CI 1.08, 1.51). Women born preterm had a higher risk of delivering early (< 34 gestational weeks) but not late preterm (34–36 weeks): the risk of early offspring PTB was increased amongst women themselves born early preterm (aRR 1.95, 95%CI 1.17, 3.24) or late preterm (aRR 1.41, 95%CI 1.01, 1.97). Adjustment for pre-eclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and hypertensive renal disease attenuated the observed intergenerational PTB associations. Mediation analysis suggested these conditions may mediate up to 26% of the observed intergenerational PTB recurrence. Similar trends were observed when first-time mothers were considered only. Maternal PTB status was not associated with PTB amongst non-First Nations women. Conclusions: First Nations women born preterm have an increased risk of early PTB. This association is in part driven by pre-eclampsia and hypertensive renal disease. Routine inquiry of maternal birth status may be a useful tool to identify NT First Nations women who may benefit from preventative measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated food insecurity issues in geographically isolated communities, including Fort Albany First Nation (FAFN). This research examines FAFN's adaptive strategies to improve food security, highlighting community resilience and leadership. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 20 community members who were involved in the pandemic response, either as members of the pandemic committee or as managers of community programs. Thematic analysis revealed significant adaptation of existing programs and the establishment of new initiatives to address food security during the pandemic. Initiatives, such as the community garden and the Fort Albany Farmers Market were food security programs that existed prior to the pandemic, and despite labor shortages during the pandemic, logistical hurdles were addressed to maintain operations and enhance food distribution efficiency. New emergency food initiatives, backed by government support and community efforts, successfully delivered food to vulnerable households. Traditional subsistence activities, such as hunting and fishing, were essential for providing sustenance and strengthening community resilience. These adaptive strategies highlight the critical role of local leadership, community participation and ingenuity, and the utilization of Indigenous knowledge in overcoming food security challenges during crises. This paper underscores the need to support Indigenous food sovereignty and build resilient local food systems tailored to the unique needs of First Nations communities. The experiences of FAFN during the COVID-19 pandemic provide invaluable insights into the resilience and innovation required to improve food security in remote and vulnerable populations, emphasizing the need for sustained investment and policy support in these communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The privileging of academic English in research bypasses important issues regarding multilingualism in doctoral education. In Australia, the current monolingual research paradigm limits the scope and nature of the research evidence that informs policymaking, neglecting the experiences, contributions and needs of the First Nations and migrant communities. This paper reviews the existing rationales for engaging with issues of multilingualism in doctoral education. We then expand the current debates about multilingual doctoral education praxis by foregrounding the multilingual research needs of Australia’s First Nations and migrant communities and doctoral researchers. Building on theoretical development in the areas of linguistic landscapes and language ontologies, in this paper we contribute two new concepts, community linguascapes and epistemic linguascapes. We argue that critical to redressing the research gap in Australia is a multilingual doctoral education system which accounts for and reflects on the role of languages and multilingualism across the design and practices of doctoral education programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores young Aboriginal women's views on sex and relationships in Australia – including their beliefs about broader social attitudes relating to sexuality, gender, and well-being – and how these understandings can impact young women's sexual health. The project adopted a strengths-based approach and used peer interviewing to investigate how Aboriginal young people in urban settings develop and manage their sexual well-being. The findings draw on interviews with 35 Aboriginal young women, between 16 and 26 years old and living in Western Sydney, Australia. Although the young women's views and experiences were broad and diverse, several key themes were identified. In this paper, we explore how young women's understandings and experiences of sexual shame were gendered and racialised, how they reconciled shame-inducing discourses by embracing more open and positive views about sexuality and how they drew on various sources to foster self-worth and sexual agency. Moreover, the paper describes what young women saw as the defining features of positive sexual relationships which, in their views, included love, connection, respect, consent, trust, honesty and responsibility. Implications for how young women's ties to family, community and culture supported them in fostering sexual well-being are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To examine low birth weight (LBW) in First Nations babies born in a large metropolitan health service in Queensland, Australia. Materials and Methods: A retrospective population‐based study using routinely collected data from administrative data sources. All singleton births in metropolitan health services, Queensland, Australia of ≥20 weeks gestation or at least 400 g birthweight and had information on First Nations status and born between 2019 and 2021 were included. The study measured birthweight and birthweight z‐score, and also identified the predictors of LBW. Multivariate regression models were adjusted by demographic, socioeconomic and perinatal factors. Results: First Nations babies had higher rates of LBW (11.4% vs 6.9%, P < 0.001), with higher rates of preterm birth (13.9% vs 8.8%, P < 0.001). In all babies, the most important factors contributing to LBW were: maternal smoking after 20 weeks of gestation; maternal pre‐pregnancy underweight (body mass index <18.5 kg/m2); nulliparity; socioeconomic disadvantage; geographical remoteness; less frequent antenatal care; history of cannabis use; pre‐existing cardiovascular disease; pre‐eclampsia; antepartum haemorrhage; and birth outcomes including prematurity and female baby. After adjusting for all contributing factors, no difference in odds of LBW was observed between First Nations and non‐First Nation babies. Conclusions: First Nations status was not an independent factor influencing LBW in this cohort, after adjustment for identifiable factors. The disparity in LBW relates to modifiable risk factors, socioeconomic disadvantage, and prematurity. Upscaling culturally safe maternity care, focusing on modifiable risk factors is required to address LBW in Australian women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people experience markedly higher suicide mortality than non-Indigenous youth in Australia, yet there is little evidence of effective preventative strategies. Many are misaligned to the needs of First Nations young people due to a lack of consideration of protective factors such as community and cultural connection. Objective: To date no research has examined whether increasing cultural connectedness may reduce Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth suicidality. The current study outlines the development, implementation, and pilot evaluation of Project Yarn Circle, a school-based suicide prevention initiative utilising cultural education and connection. Method: Project Yarn Circle was piloted by an Indigenous owned and managed youth mental health organisation, delivering 5 weekly sessions to 276 young people at 9 schools in Southeast Queensland, Australia, between 2019 and 2023. Sessions connected students to cultural knowledge and practices (stories, painting, dance, Indigenous languages) with Elders and local cultural knowledge facilitators. Results: Pre- and post-program evaluation questionnaires completed 6–8 weeks apart found that participants had significantly lower suicidal ideation (GHQ-18-SS), pre 7.16, post 6.61, p =.043 higher positive ideation/reasons for living (PANSI-PI) pre 22.44, post 23.60, p =.009, and higher self-esteem (RSES) pre 16.55, post 23.60, p =.005. Analyses of cultural connectedness items co-designed for this evaluation study and validated using Exploratory Factor Analysis found that students demonstrated greater cultural identity clarity, peer cultural competence, strength from culture, salience of cultural continuity and sense of belonging. Conclusions: These findings provide new evidence towards utilising cultural connectedness as an intervention mechanism in Indigenous youth suicide prevention. KEY POINTS: What is already known about this topic: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth suicide rates are persistently higher than for other young people, with little evidence of effective suicide prevention strategies. Interventions often are misaligned to the different risk and protective factors experienced by First Nations young people. Connection to culture is promoted as a unique protective factor to reduce suicide risk for First Nations young people. What this topic adds: To our knowledge this is the first published cultural engagement intervention to report significant improvement in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth suicidality, providing an example of the development and delivery of a new program approach. This is the first study to explore increases in connection to culture in conjunction with lowered suicidal ideation and higher reasons for living. The findings suggest that connection to culture can be used as a therapeutic mechanism to reduce suicidality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insomnia is a common sleep complaint in Canada and is associated with increased use of health care services and economic burden. This paper examines the association of insomnia with functional outcomes relevant to daily behaviors and sleep-related quality of life among First Nations participants using the Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ-10). The First Nations Sleep Health Project follow-up survey was conducted in partnership with two Cree First Nations in the summer of 2022, where 355 individuals participated. Statistical analysis was conducted using logistic regression models. The mean age of the participants was 40.76 ± 14.60 (SD) years, and 59.4% were females. The prevalence of chronic insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index score of ≥15) was 21.0%, with more females (26.1%) than males (13.8%) experiencing it among the 348 participants. Overall, the mean FOSQ-10 score was 17.27 ± 2.98 among the 350 participants, with those who had clinical insomnia reporting significantly lower scores than those without clinical insomnia (mean ± SD: 14.6 ± 3.9 vs. 18.0 ± 2.1; p < 0.001). The FOSQ-10 scores indicated sleep-related functional impairment (FOSQ-10 total score < 17.90) in 46.6% of participants. After adjusting for age, excessive daytime sleepiness, sex, and regular use of prescription medication, we found that clinical insomnia was significantly associated with functional impairments. In fact, a person with clinical insomnia was 3.5 times more likely to have functional impairments than those without clinical insomnia. This study highlights the significant association between insomnia and functional impairments related to daily behaviors and quality of life in two First Nation communities. Identifying this association can help healthcare providers to diagnose and treat patients with insomnia in these communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Lateral violence is the potential for members of a group to engage in practices that are harmful to other members of their own group. Evidence indicates that lateral violence can affect Aboriginal children's social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB); however, little is known about the potential for ethnic-racial identity (ERI) to protect against harmful effects of lateral violence. Methods: We investigated whether ERI affirmation moderated the relationship between exposure to lateral violence and Aboriginal children's SEWB. Children (n = 360) from the K-Cohort of the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children were included in this analysis. Children's ERI was dichotomised into high versus low affirmation, and General Linear Models were used to examine the effects of lateral violence on SEWB and the potentially moderating effect of ERI on that relationship. Results: Increased exposure to lateral violence was associated with increased difficulties in all Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire domains. ERI was also shown to moderate the relationship between exposure to lateral violence and peer difficulties, with children in the high ERI affirmation group showing greater vulnerability than those in the low group. Conclusions: The findings of this study are discussed in relation to their potential to inform policy and clinical practice. Key Points: What is already known about this topic: Lateral violence primarily occurs within groups who experience oppression. Questions about a person's Indigenous status may involve a critique of their authenticity and, therefore, representation of them as more or less Indigenous. Current literature indicates that Ethnic racial identity (ERI) may have positive and negative implications for an individual's social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) along several distinct dimensions. What this topic adds: In this study, lateral violence had a significant and negative effect on individual SEWB. Increased exposure to lateral violence was associated with an increase in peer problems, particularly for Indigenous Adolescents who were highly affirming of their ERI. The salience of ERI affirmation may be particularly important for Indigenous adolescents as they seek to establish a clear sense of their own, often unique, identity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Special Issue interrogates the limitations and possibilities of truth within global efforts to address historical injustice. Over the past 30 years truth commissions have become ubiquitous in response to authoritarian regimes and colonial legacies. However, their ability to facilitate meaningful transformation is increasingly contested. In this editorial we explore what a decolonial reckoning, rather than reconciliation, with the past and colonial logics of power, might mean. In doing so, we argue that the liberal, modernist imaginary of justice on which many truth processes have been premised, is constraining our imagination of more radical 'fugitive' forms justice. Drawing from contributions from Australia and other global contexts this special issue investigates these limitations and the transformative potential of truth as a decolonial, sovereign, embodied and relational praxis. Contributors engage with the pluriversality of truth in ways that trouble the nation-state and centre the sovereignty and onto-epistemology of racialised and First Nations peoples, often excluded from transitional justice processes, thus offering pathways for radical resistance, resurgence and prefigurative transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For over a decade, members of the Aamjiwnaang Nation have continued to fight for the recognition and redress of their unique environmental health concerns in a region known as Canada's Chemical Valley. From a critical policy studies lens, this article addresses the discursive policy challenges faced by those who are most affected by the toxic policy assemblage of enduring pollution exposure. In response to the research question: how can the voices and lived experiences of those living in pollution hotspots like Chemical Valley contribute to the theory and practice of environmental justice, this article draws upon findings from extensive field‐work in the surrounding region of Lambton County as well as policy advocacy including participation in Senate of Canada hearings. This analysis examines how the omission of community‐based knowledge and expertise reproduces inequities. The article concludes with strategies for improved environmental justice and lessons learned for policy justice in Canada and beyond. Related Articles: Al‐Kohlani, Sumaia A., Heather E. Campbell, and Stephen Omar El‐Khatib. 2023. "Minority Faith and Environmental Justice." Politics & Policy 51(6): 1069–96. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12564. Ash, John. 2010. "New Nuclear Energy, Risk, and Justice: Regulatory Strategies for an Era of Limited Trust." Politics & Policy 38(2): 255–84. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2010.00237.x. Dilmaghani, Maryam, and Jeremy Dias. 2023. "In or Out? Citizenship Outcomes of Working Sexual and Gender Minority People of Canada." Politics & Policy 51(5): 868–97. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12557. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indigenous post-secondary students face cumbersome barriers to educational attainment. This article explores those barriers and presents findings from a survey of Indigenous students conducted at Algoma University in Sault St. Marie, Ontario, Canada. For First Nations' students surveyed in 2016 (n = 36), funding was identified as a major barrier and, considering that nearly half of students had dependents, finding affordable housing and childcare was a significant challenge. The transition to an urban area from living on-reserve is also difficult for many students. The Anishinaabe Initiatives Division at Algoma University hosted culturally affirming events for Indigenous students. We found this to be an effective tool universities can use to bolster student resilience and foster a sense of belonging. We also propose that funding on university campuses must increase to support Indigenous students' educational attainment goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples face significant challenges in accessing mainstream health services due to the ongoing impacts of racism, colonisation, and intergenerational trauma. To address health inequalities, it is important to build Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce capacity in the health professions where there is significant under-representation. A pilot mentoring programme was developed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ear and hearing health professionals and students, which aimed to understand their expectations and experiences. Six participants enrolled in the study, two mentors and four mentees, all from a speech pathology background. The study found that maintaining relationships with other Aboriginal speech pathologists was vital for longevity in the profession. The study stresses the importance of workplaces and universities ensuring that individuals are not thrown into culturally unsafe situations and that they are culturally safe and responsive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Paediatric tuberculosis (TB), or TB in children younger than 15 years of age, is a growing public health concern in First Nations communities. Objective: To describe the epidemiology of paediatric TB in northern Saskatchewan's on-reserve First Nations communities. Methods: We examined the paediatric TB cases reported in northern Saskatchewan First Nations on-reserve communities from 2018 to 2022 using the Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority database. We employed descriptive statistics to understand the paediatric TB epidemiology in these susceptible populations. Results: Sixty paediatric TB cases were identified over the study period: four cases in 2018, six cases each in 2019 and 2020, 16 cases in 2021 and 28 cases in 2022. The average annual incidence was 112.6 cases per 100,000 children, ranging from 36.1 in 2018 to 268.6 in 2022. Children younger than five years of age constituted 55% of cases, with males comprising 60%. The Far North Central and East zones accounted for 90% of cases. Most cases (85%) were detected through contact tracing and pulmonary TB comprised 85% of cases. Of these, 71% completed therapy, while 27% were still in treatment. Cases were predominantly from communities with low education (100%), inadequate housing (67%) and low income (67%). Conclusion: Paediatric TB incidence among First Nations in northern Saskatchewan is increasing, especially among children younger than five years of age. Our study identifies disparities in paediatric TB incidence across demographics and geographic areas, suggesting that reducing the disease burden requires a combination of community- and person-driven TB initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

First Nations' custodianship of Country has provided incalculable benefits to Australia. Geographical devaluation of this custodianship has been central to settler colonial and later governmental economic and development policy that worked/s to remove First Nations from Country. Indeed, the negation of First Nations sovereignties to extract value from the environment for non-Indigenous dividends underpins the development and operation of state-directed economic activity in Australia. As a result, how First Nations are valued, or not, is tied to cultural, political and economic ideas about First Nations' presence on Country. Welcome to Country ceremonies exemplify the complexities associated with geographical valuations of First Nations' presence. Such ceremonies incentivise labour demands for Elder and older First Nations to enact language and culturally specific custodianship even as broader non-Indigenous institutions are hostile to self-determined development and Indigenous sovereignties. The article provides a theoretical account of the geographical valuations and modelling tendencies with respect to First Nations economic development that focus on the state as the key interlocutor. Where scholarship draws attention to the role of the state as recognising the cultural rather than economic dimension of First Nations activities, Welcome to Country ceremonies demonstrate the importance of regional and local scales of First Nations sovereign practices. First Nations and Elder capacities to perform these ceremonies are both a normalised and under-considered element of regional development activities. Welcome to Country constitutes an important case site for understanding the complex interactions between First Nations axiologies and non-Indigenous geographical valuations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development and dissemination of health messaging is a critical component of reducing health disparities. Participants (n = 87) from a human biomonitoring study in six Dene communities responded to a survey about health communication regarding contaminants. The survey included questions on awareness of health messages and risk perceptions related to country foods and contaminants. The vast majority of participants reported eating country foods (99%) and heard that country foods had beneficial nutrients (90%). Seventy per cent of respondents had heard or seen messages about fish with high levels of mercury, and 60% had concerns about the safety or quality of country foods they consumed. Respondents who reported decreasing the number of fish they ate since hearing the messages about fish and mercury had lower (p = 0.04) mercury concentration in hair, compared to those who had not heard the messages. However, no differences in hair mercury were observed for respondents who reported to have changed their fishing location, chosen smaller fish or eaten less predatory fish since hearing the messages. Results indicate the need to examine reasons for self-reported behaviour changes, in addition to awareness. The conclusions of this study can inform the development of messaging and risk management decisions about contaminants within Indigenous populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Canada and a leading cause of cancer mortality. Lung cancer also affects First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples significantly in Canada, which deserves further investigation as there is a literature gap on this topic. We sought to develop a deeper understanding of lung cancer diagnosis, incidence, mortality, and survival in First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples in Canada. A systematic search was conducted in bibliographic databases to identify relevant studies published between January 2000 and March 2023. Articles were screened and assessed for relevance using the Population/ Concept/ Context (PCC) framework. A total of 22 articles were included in the final analysis, of which 13 were Inuit-specific, 7 were First Nations-specific, and 2 were Métis-specific. The literature suggests that comparative incidence, mortality, and relative risk of lung cancer is higher and survival is poorer in First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Lung cancer also has varying impact on these population depending on sex, age, location and other factors. This review illustrates that more comprehensive quantitative and qualitative lung cancer research is essential to further identify the structural causes for the high incidence of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Canada, most people prefer to die at home. However, the proportion of deaths that occur in hospital has increased over time. This study examined mortality rates and proportionate mortality in Innu communities in Labrador, and compared patterns to other communities in Labrador and Newfoundland. We conducted a cross-sectional ecological study with mortality data from the vital statistics system. This included information about all deaths in Newfoundland and Labrador from 1993 to 2018. We used descriptive statistics and rates to examine patterns by age, sex, cause and location. During the 2003 to 2018 period the leading cause of death in the Innu communities (excluding external causes) was cancer, followed by circulatory disease and respiratory disease. Between 1993 and 2018, there was a lower percentage of hospital deaths and a higher percentage of at home deaths in Innu communities than in the rest of the province. The majority of deaths among Innu were due to cancer and chronic diseases. We found a higher percentage of at home deaths in Innu communities compared to the rest of the province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Education systems in "Canada" are increasingly highlighting the structural and material inequities faced by First Nations' peoples. However, most practices within formal education tend to focus on awareness campaigns and/or examining injustice as a historical event, as opposed to challenging the structural and systemic forces that continue to perpetuate injustice toward First Nations' peoples. Drawing on a year-long educational project with students in grades 7-9 from various schools Canada-wide, this paper applies a case study approach to explore educating for advocacy through ethical relationality and solidarity with those experiencing injustice. The study highlights a transformation in how educators and students think about advocacy, while also drawing attention to the challenges to carrying out advocacy work within school systems with deep colonial roots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Particularly in racially and ethnically diverse countries, the necessity of providing individualized care to people seeking diet advice is increasingly recognized and embedded in practice guidelines. Some jurisdictions have a history of colonization with subjugation and marginalization of the Indigenous population, which has led to serious health inequities. One overarching strategy to reduce health inequities is to provide education through a decolonizing lens, so that graduate healthcare professionals, such as dietitians, have a better understanding of how to mitigate colonial attitudes, racism, stereotyping and other behaviours, thereby improving health equity. This review aims to summarize and evaluate educational strategies to decolonize dietetics training programs. Methods: A narrative review was conducted. Results: Professional dietetics organizations in Canada, Australia and New Zealand have incorporated Indigenous-specific outcomes into their standards of practice. Six primary research studies were reviewed, two each from Australia, New Zealand and the United States. The strategies developed include reviewing curriculum content, providing experiential learning opportunities and identifying barriers to the participation of Indigenous students in dietetics programs. Lack of engagement of Indigenous persons in curriculum development, planning and evaluation of efforts is a gap that needs to be addressed. Conclusions: Meeting practice standards and closing the health equity gap for Indigenous peoples require additional research and implementation into practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world's oceans are confronting many challenges, which are affecting threatened species such as marine turtles. To address these challenges, it is imperative that pro-environmental behaviors are cultivated in the wider community, and young people are provided opportunities to overcome socio-economic and geographical barriers to meaningfully experience nature. In the Pilbara region of Western Australia, Aboriginal Traditional Custodians share a deep connection and caring relationship with Country. Collaboration and partnership between Traditional Custodians and conservation programs are essential for empowering Aboriginal young people as future conservation leaders and to achieve long-term conservation goals. Western Australia's Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, a government department, has been working with schools and community organisations across the Pilbara to support access to remote Sea Country and marine turtle conservation experiences for Aboriginal young people. By examining three case studies demonstrating the collaboration among the North West Shelf Flatback Turtle Conservation Program, West Pilbara Turtle Program, Waalitj Foundation, Onslow School and Roebourne District High School, this article explores the importance of building partnerships, providing additional on-Country opportunities for young people, and enabling future pathways for the longevity of long-term conservation programs and the health of the environment and communities. Oceans and marine turtles are facing many challenges. Collaboration and partnership between Traditional Custodians and conservation programs empower Aboriginal young people as future conservation leaders and are important to achieve long-term conservation goals. Three case studies explore the importance of partnerships in conservation, providing additional on-Country opportunities for young people, and enabling future pathways in the Pilbara, Western Australia. This article belongs to the collection: Science in Sea Country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Canada, recent advances towards reconciliation have introduced new collaborations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous governments, including for species-at-risk recovery planning. During these collaborations, Indigenous Knowledge (IK) is often requested, however, clear expectations of what IK is being sought and how diverse knowledge systems will be woven to produce tangible benefits to species recovery are often limited. Here, we provide a case study of a two-stage process to identify and collect IK components that can aid whudzih (caribou) recovery planning. First, we surveyed non-Indigenous government professionals involved in caribou initiatives to specify what IK would benefit recovery planning. Responses were used to guide the development of semi-structured interview questions. Interviews were conducted with knowledge holders from Lhtako Dene, a Southern Dakelh Nation in British Columbia, Canada with historic socioecological ties to caribou. Responses of government professionals highlighted 24 topics for caribou recovery, and interviews with Lhtako Dene knowledge holders revealed strong linkages between ecological and social information types. In some cases, the IK requested was not available from knowledge holders. Collaborations for caribou recovery would benefit from clarity on expectations and outcomes of IK sharing. We suggest that structured processes that respectfully facilitate IK requests and collection become commonplace in species recovery planning.

Abstract Background Injury causes significant burden on Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. However, a considerable portion of the research conducted in this area has been carried out by Western researchers. It has been acknowledged that historical research methodologies and discourses around Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research may not be suitable or beneficial. Co-production methodologies offer opportunities for research to be developed collaboratively ensuring meaningfulness of results and appropriate protection for participants. A scoping review was undertaken to investigate the use of co-production methodologies in research within the unintentional injuries space for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities over time. Main body A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, ProQuest, Embase and Indigenous Health Infonet databases. Study characteristics, remoteness, injury topic, co-production methods and elements were extracted from eligible studies. The search revealed 4175 papers, from which 39 studies were included in this scoping review. It was found that 69% of studies were fully co-produced with community. Studies predominately focused on general injury, falls prevention or brain injury rehabilitation. The most heavily utilised co-production strategy was the inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers into the writing and research team. This helped the collection of culturally safe data and appropriate interpretation of results. Conclusion There is growing diversity among co-production methodologies, better enabling meaningful engagement between community and research. This co-production helps decolonise the research process to privilege Aboriginal voices, however, more work is needed to appropriately capture Indigenous perspectives.

Abstract Background To investigate the sociodemographic, anthropometric, biochemical, lifestyle and cardiometabolic risk factors associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D) among First Nations Australians. Methods A systematic review of prospective cohorts and cross-sectional studies was conducted. Electronic data sources (MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, CINHAL, and PsycINFO) were searched for peer-reviewed articles until August 2023. We reviewed observational and interventional studies on T2D that reported sociodemographic, anthropometric, lifestyle, and biochemical risk factors for Australian First Nations people. Narrative synthesis was applied without meta-analysis. We highlighted the major risk factors for T2D by reporting the most significant findings from individual studies in the results. The review followed PRISMA guidelines. Results The review included 20 eligible studies: 12 cross-sectional studies and 8 prospective cohort studies. The findings from these studies showed that First Nations people who resided in very remote areas (Modified Monash Category 7; MM7) (OR = 1.61; 95% CI: 1.03, 2.52), living adjacent to food store stocking “Western” food items (OR = 2.92; 95% CI: 1.51, 5.63), rented their home (OR = 2.07; 95% CI: 1.30, 3.30) and part-time employment (OR = 2.47; 95% CI: 1.54, 3.95) were associated with a statistically higher risk of developing T2D. First Nations people who had obesity class 1 (BMI > 30 kg/m2), central obesity (WC > 88 cm in women; >102 cm in men), and higher waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) (≥ 1.0 in men and 0.85 in women) were more likely to have T2D. First Nations people with elevated triglycerides (≥ 1.7 mmol/L) (OR = 4.9; 95% CI: 2.7, 8.8), one standard deviation (SD) increase in C-reactive protein (CRP) value (AHR = 1.23; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.45) and lower levels of vitamin D (

Abstract Background This longitudinal case study describes the efforts and impacts of community-controlled service organisations on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in Central Australia to tackle food security since the 1980s, with a focus on the last decade, particularly during a year of concerted action from mid-2018. Methods The co-designed study comprised an interrupted time series with controls. Availability, affordability, accessibility and sales of foods in the community retail stores on the APY Lands were monitored regularly from 2014 to mid-2022, including by local research teams. Store nutrition policy was updated early 2018. For a year from mid-2018, of the eight communities with stores: (i) two were the focus for concerted intervention, including support from a locally based project officer to help implement the policy and action 105 community requests for nutrition activities (ii) three received usual support to implement the policy; and (iii) three were subject to ‘business as usual’. From mid-2019, all communities/stores received usual service, from 2020 with some restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Results were compared over time, across different community/store groups and with controls. Results In the 12 months from mid-2018, all food security metrics improved most in the two focus communities. Impacts were less marked in the communities without additional support to implement the revised nutrition policy, and even less apparent, although more varied, in the other three communities/stores. Dietary intake improved only in the two focus communities. In all communities from early 2020 most gains eroded due to impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and other external stressors. Food security metrics, including price of healthy food, appeared more resilient in the focus communities, although diet quality worsened. At all times assessed, healthy diets were unaffordable for welfare-dependant households. Conclusions This co-designed study demonstrates the effectiveness of community-led approaches, confirming that it is possible to improve food security and diet in remote Aboriginal communities. However, sustained action and monitoring, dedicated resources and employment of local people are critical for success. Results also highlight that low incomes are a major barrier to food security.

Abstract Introduction There are limited data on chest computed tomography (CT) findings in the assessment of lung nodules among adult Aboriginal Australians. In this retrospective study, we assessed lung nodules among a group of adult Aboriginal Australians in the Northern Territory of Australia. Methods Patients who underwent at least two chest CT scans between 2012 and 2020 among those referred to undergo lung function testing (spirometry) were included. Chest CT scans were assessed for the number, location, size and morphological characteristics of lung nodules. Results Of the 402 chest CTs assessed, 75 patients (18.7%) had lung nodules, and 57 patients were included in the final analysis with at least two CT scans available for assessment over a median follow‐up of 87 weeks. Most patients (68%) were women, with a median age of 58 years and smoking history in 83%. The majority recorded only a single nodule 43 (74%). Six patients (10%) were diagnosed with malignancy, five with primary lung cancer and one with metastatic thyroid cancer. Of the 51 (90%) patients assessed to be benign, 64 nodules were identified, of which 25 (39%) resolved, 38 (59%) remained stable and one (1.8%) enlarged on follow‐up. Nodules among patients with malignancy were typically initially larger and enlarged over time, had spiculated margins and were solid, showing no specific lobar predilection. Conclusions Most lung nodules in Aboriginal Australians are likely to be benign. However, a proportion could be malignant. Further prospective studies are required for prognostication and monitoring of lung nodules in this population.

Abstract Background The Elders Mentoring Program (EMP) is part of a strengths-based community-based participatory research partnership with the Cree communities of Maskwacîs, Alberta, Canada. The EMP objective is to promote maternal and child health through traditional Cree teachings and support from community Elders to pregnant women and their partners. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Elders decided to shift the program to an online format in early 2021. The Elders continued to offer mentorship to program participants virtually by Zoom and telephone, and online workshops. The objective of this study was to qualitatively explore the experiences of women that took part in the virtual EMP. Methods We utilized qualitative description as our method, informed by our overarching community-led research partnership. Semi-structured phone interviews were conducted by Maskwacîs research assistants (RAs) with 11 women who participated in the virtual program. Interviews were conducted between December 2021 and June 2022. The participants were asked about their perceptions of the program and its benefits. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded by four RAs using thematic analysis. Results Although cultural teachings are traditionally offered in person, the shift to the virtual platform was greatly appreciated by all the women. Technology can be a useful tool for cultural teachings and language to be shared among community members when they cannot be physically together. Four main themes emerged from the data, representing the participants’ experiences, and learning through their interactions with the Elders from the EMP. The themes are: Ohpikihâwasowin (grounding and guiding on the path to be a healthy parent); Indigenous ways of healing; On the path of cultural learning; and Identity for self and baby. Conclusion The virtual adaptation of the EMP allowed a space for Elders to offer support to women living in and out of the community to provide guidance with their pregnancies and into motherhood. The workshops and one-on-one calls allowed for cultural revitalization which is critical for Indigenous well-being. All the participants found that the teachings and interactions positively impacted their pregnancy and parenthood. Overall, the virtual program demonstrated a venue for intergenerational healing and resilience.

Introduction: Social support within Indigenous worldviews is recognized as a component of health and has been associated with physical activity and sedentary behaviour. Physical Activity (PA) is a modifiable behaviour that can help reduce risks of disease and benefit many dimensions of health. The purpose of this study was to compare the physical activity of Indigenous adults in Saskatchewan with and without family/friend support of PA. Methods: The Family Influence on Physical Activity questionnaire was used to record the extent and forms of family/friend support of PA. The Godin Shepard Leisure Exercise Questionnaire (GSLEQ) was used to measure weekly PA, including moderate PA (MPA), vigorous PA (VPA), exercise frequency (WEF) and GSLEQ scores. Results: Indigenous participants overall, First Nations and Cree participants specifically with family/friend involvement in PA reported greater weekly WEF and GSLEQ scores. Indigenous participants overall and First Nations participants specifically with family and friends who watch them engage in PA reported greater weekly VPA and GSLEQ scores. Among First Nations and Cree participants specifically, those with family/friends encouragement of PA reported greater weekly VPA, WEF and GSLEQ scores. Furthermore, First Nations participants with active family/friends reported significantly greater weekly VPA (36.8 ± 51.5 min·week−1 vs. 80.2 ± 108.5 min·week−1; p = 0.01). Greater weekly VPA was found in Métis participants with family/friend involvement in PA and with family/friends who watch them engage in PA (67.6 ± 59.6 min·week−1 vs. 29.5 ± 40.8 min·week−1; p = 0.01). Discussion: Social support, specifically family/friends involvement, has a significant impact on Indigenous participation in PA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This longitudinal case study describes the efforts and impacts of community-controlled service organisations on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in Central Australia to tackle food security since the 1980s, with a focus on the last decade, particularly during a year of concerted action from mid-2018. Methods: The co-designed study comprised an interrupted time series with controls. Availability, affordability, accessibility and sales of foods in the community retail stores on the APY Lands were monitored regularly from 2014 to mid-2022, including by local research teams. Store nutrition policy was updated early 2018. For a year from mid-2018, of the eight communities with stores: (i) two were the focus for concerted intervention, including support from a locally based project officer to help implement the policy and action 105 community requests for nutrition activities (ii) three received usual support to implement the policy; and (iii) three were subject to 'business as usual'. From mid-2019, all communities/stores received usual service, from 2020 with some restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Results were compared over time, across different community/store groups and with controls. Results: In the 12 months from mid-2018, all food security metrics improved most in the two focus communities. Impacts were less marked in the communities without additional support to implement the revised nutrition policy, and even less apparent, although more varied, in the other three communities/stores. Dietary intake improved only in the two focus communities. In all communities from early 2020 most gains eroded due to impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and other external stressors. Food security metrics, including price of healthy food, appeared more resilient in the focus communities, although diet quality worsened. At all times assessed, healthy diets were unaffordable for welfare-dependant households. Conclusions: This co-designed study demonstrates the effectiveness of community-led approaches, confirming that it is possible to improve food security and diet in remote Aboriginal communities. However, sustained action and monitoring, dedicated resources and employment of local people are critical for success. Results also highlight that low incomes are a major barrier to food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From 2017–2019 I was counsel representing the families in a coronial inquest which looked at Aboriginal youth deaths in the Kimberley region of Australia with a particular regard to self-harm. A coronial inquest is a judicial proceeding that investigates unexplained deaths, unusual deaths, or deaths in state custody. In this paper I consider the epistemic violence my clients experienced, and I particularly examine the potential for affect and relationality to create connectors between epistemes in the hope of a more emancipatory conception of justice. I draw on Audre Lorde's corpus as one that is worthy of serious regard in critical legal studies and useful in my work. In particular, I turn my gaze inwards and draw on Audre Lorde's creation of biomythography as a method for legal writing and legal practice, to offer an account of my role in the Inquest. Biomythography is a form of writing which grounds subjective individual and collective experience, and its interrelationship with history and myth to centre experiences of justice and injustice. In using this methodology, I consider ways the civil law, through its interpretive function and authority in the coronial jurisdiction, oppresses First Nations Australians. Through writing my biomythography I show that the Coroner's fact finding role arrives at truth in a way inherently embedded in Western knowledge systems and I regard the Coroner's truth determining function as violent. Finally, I consider the potential of affect as a connector between epistemes to create emancipatory possibilities for justice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

First Nations students from remote communities frequently make the choice to move to boarding school to complete their secondary education because of the limited educational opportunities in their local communities. To do this, students leave their family and peer support structures during adolescence. Although governments have provided funding for First Nations students to attend boarding school long before the Closing the Gap targets were set, outcomes of boarding for many of these students continue to disappoint, with low retention rates and below-average academic outcomes. Building on the principles of Culturally Responsive Pedagogy, a Culturally Responsive Boarding framework is proposed that reflects the unique needs of remote First Nation students. A rapid review included 21 peer reviewed articles about First Nations student experiences at boarding schools. The results were thematically coded to reveal that five Culturally Responsive Pedagogy strands were evident in the experiences of First Nations boarding students: having sociocultural consciousness; affirming views of students; acting as agents of change; learning about students and their communities; and culturally responsive teaching practices. Three additional strands emerged from the literature to generate an eight-strand framework of Culturally Responsive Boarding: building cultural safety in boarding; providing health and wellbeing services; and supporting aspirations. Most of the experiences analysed from the literature were negatively positioned relative to the strands in Culturally Responsive Boarding. The framework is limited because of the dearth of independent evaluations of boarding school outcomes for First Nations students. The proposed framework provides a pragmatic placeholder to support First Nations boarding students and their families until broader reforms happen across the boarding school sector in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Despite being widely distributed along eastern Australia, the golden-tipped bat (Phoniscus papuensis) is listed as Vulnerable in New South Wales (NSW). The 2019–2020 wildfires affected an estimated 40% of foraging and roosting habitat, causing further conservation concern. The species roosts in suspended birds' nests located along watercourses in rainforest or wet sclerophyll forests. Habitat augmentation is a key recovery action for the species; however, effective techniques are unknown. Aims: We integrated western scientific and Indigenous cultural knowledge and practice to deliver an artificial roosting structure for golden-tipped bats, and designed and implemented a collaborative model for habitat restoration, with genuine opportunity for cultural practice and two-way knowledge sharing. Methods: In partnership, members of Indigenous groups, western scientific organisations and volunteers shared learnings about bats, culture and caring for Country. Weaving materials were collected from local forests, roosts were woven and hung in rainforest gullies and monitored using remote cameras and direct visual inspection. Key results: Golden-tipped bats used woven roosts, suggesting that roosting-habitat augmentation could support recovery of the species. Strong partnerships were established between government conservation programs and local Indigenous communities, engaging younger generations in cultural practice and learning. Delivery models were demonstrated for further collaborative, two-way threatened species projects. Conclusions: Golden-tipped bats will use woven structures for roosting. Integrating Indigenous knowledge into threatened species programs can deliver effective conservation outcomes for specialist and cryptic species. Implications: Should further broadscale fire, or other impact causing loss of roosting structures occur, community, Indigenous groups or government agencies can utilise this model to implement effective conservation actions together. The 2019–20 megafires across south-eastern Australia affected 40% of the habitat for the threatened golden-tipped bat (Phoniscus papuensis). We blended Indigenous cultural practices and western science to create woven roosts for the golden-tipped bat, which were successfully utilised in the second year of the project. Our experience provides a framework for collaborative conservation responses for golden-tipped bats and has broader implications for the recovery of other threatened species. A short video about the project is available and footage of golden-tipped bats leaving woven roosts is available . Photograph: Anna Lloyd/DCCEEW. This article belongs to the Collection Indigenous and cross-cultural wildlife research in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]