Mokaksin Centre for Blackfoot Research andResilience

At Red Crow Community College, research is grounded in the Blackfoot way of knowing and living, guided by the spiritual values of the Blood Tribe. Designated by the Blood Tribe Chief and Council as the official post-secondary institution of the Blood Tribe, we are committed to honouring the principles of respect for persons, concern for welfare, and justice, while embracing the core values of the Blackfoot Confederacy.

Research conducted under Red Crow’s auspices aligns with the ethical standards set forth by the Tri-Council Policy Statement on Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans, particularly Chapter 9, which governs research involving First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples of Canada. RCCC is committed to upholding the following Blackfoot values in all its research activities:

Aatsimmoiyihkanni (spirituality)

The foundation of research practices rooted in the spiritual beliefs and traditions of the Blood Tribe.

Kimmapiiypitsinni (kindness to others)

Ensuring the welfare and dignity of all participants and community members involved in research.

Niitisitapiiysinni (to be Blackfoot)

Conducting research that reflects and honours the identity and heritage of the Blackfoot Confederacy.

Ihpipototsp (purpose for being there)

Ensuring that all research is undertaken with clear purpose and responsibility to the Blood Tribe.

Aksistoiypaittapiisinni (being able to take on tasks independently)

Encouraging researchers to carry out their work responsibly and with self-reliance.

Isspomaanitapiiysinni (being helpful to others)

Promoting research that benefits the community and addresses the needs of its people.

Aoahkannaistokawa (everything comes in pairs, balance)

Balancing the interests of the Blood Tribe, researchers, and participants in ethical decision-making.

Pommotsiiysinni (to transfer something to others)

Ensuring that knowledge gained through research is shared appropriately with the Blood Tribe.

Ihkanaitapstiwa (everything that is given to a person to do)

Valuing the contributions and responsibilities of each individual involved in the research process.

Innakotsiiysinni (respect for others)

Upholding respect for the autonomy, privacy, and cultural practices of all participants.

Kakyosin (be aware of your environment,be observant)

Encouraging researchers to be mindful of the cultural and natural environments they engage with.

The Red Crow Research Ethics Board, in collaboration with community Elders,ensures that all research proposals adhere to these values and protect the sovereignty and well-being of the Blood Tribe. All research must be approved by the Board, ensuring it benefits the community and reflects Blackfoot practices.

Researchers are entrusted with the responsibility to collaborate with the Blood Tribe to ensure that knowledge generated is shared ethically and with respect.

For further information, please contact the RCCC Research Centre. research@mikaisto.com