Simpson, Heather

This research project provides a voice and leadership opportunity for Indigenous students with autism through participatory action research. It informs and asks how B.C. post-secondary teaching and learning practices and policy can better integrate Indigenous knowledge in education and arts programming, and disrupt patterns of social injustice, exclusion, and cultural genocide while promoting positive identity formation, pride, and resilience for Indigenous persons with autism.

This is the oral recording of the report entitled Thrivival: the fire within. This research project provides a voice and leadership opportunity for Indigenous students with autism through participatory action research. It informs and asks how B.C. post-secondary teaching and learning practices and policy can better integrate Indigenous knowledge in education and arts programming, and disrupt patterns of social injustice, exclusion, and cultural genocide while promoting positive identity formation, pride, and resilience for Indigenous persons with autism.

The goal of this study was to explore current practices that help support and enhance Indigenous students’ experiences in post-secondary education. Through the use of Indigenous ways of knowing and storytelling, those supporting students at IAHLA and public post-secondary institutions gathered to weave together their stories of success, struggle, and perseverance in their journey to advance Indigenous education and improve the experiences of Indigenous students in post-secondary education.