Remote Food Security Research Project: Applying an Indigenist Research Lens

Area of Science:

• Indigenous Studies
• Public Health
• Community-Based Participatory Research

Background:

• Food security is a critical issue in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
• Existing research models often fail to adequately incorporate Indigenous perspectives and control.
• Rigney's Indigenist research model offers a framework for Indigenous-led inquiry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To reflect on the application of Rigney's Indigenist research model in a food security project.
• To examine how this model facilitated community-led solutions and empowered Indigenous stakeholders.
• To evaluate the model's effectiveness in addressing social determinants of health.

Main Methods:

• The study employed a reflective approach to analyze a community-led food security project.
• Partnerships were established with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) and Indigenous communities.
• Rigney's principles of Indigenist research guided the research design, governance, and implementation.

Main Results:

• Indigenist research principles were successfully integrated, enabling Indigenous control over the research process.
• The research actively embedded Indigenous worldviews, experiences, and knowledge into all project phases.
• ACCHOs and communities gained a significant political voice, leading to advocacy and action.
• A Community Framework for food security was developed, guided by Indigenous principles.

Conclusions:

• Rigney's Indigenist research model is effective in promoting Indigenous self-determination in research.
• This model fosters resistance against oppression and enhances political integrity.
• Prioritizing Indigenous voices is crucial for addressing social determinants like food security and achieving equitable outcomes.