A First Nation model of Mishkauziwin [strength; resilience] : the revitalization of family/clan identity in an Anishnaabe family of Northwestern Ontario.

Abstract

This thesis uses a family-directed approach to study the topic of resilience through an extended Anishnaabe family’s perceptions of their mishkauziwin [strength; resilience] as they strive to revitalize their family/clan identity. The interdisciplinary/qualitative/indigenist study braids together complementary ways of research from indigenous knowledges and the Western academy in a participatory framework. The perceptions of participants in studies on resilience are often sidelined, as are aspects of Aboriginal realities often missing from mainstream views of resilience in Aboriginal contexts. The perceptions of research participants in this study are the core-organizing feature of the research as they look at their relationships, traditional practices, and indigenous knowledge. The study contributes significantly to Anishnaabe communities and individuals as well as expands the body of knowledge on the topic of resilience in general. The study examines systemic issues impacting the lived experiences of participants, reviews the topic of historical trauma as it relates to the family participants, inquires into cultural identity issues, and works to comprehend the ecological view in Aboriginal contexts. The themes, patterns and metaphors of resilience from an Anishnaabe family’s perceptions serve to clarify significant findings about mishkauziwin, illustrating the process of restoration of family/clan identity as that of a strength based process which carries with it significant protective factors. The work together reaffirmed the value of a knowledge study emerging from the ground up as contrasted with top down approaches. Some aspects of the revitalization pro cess can be viewed as a grieving process, indicating that mishkauziwin means strength for healing and is the impetus for forward movement despite colonization and historical trauma. Mishkauziwin is evident in the connections within and between families, in aspects of spirituality, clan roles, cultural traditions, survival, and love. Themes of restoring lost identity through connections to each other and their land, language, and traditional culture are evident. Clan identity and the family revitalization are embedded in these processes, as are other protective factors, such as education, and spiritual and cultural factors, which modulate the effects of loss. This confirms findings of other research on resilience in Aboriginal contexts, and gives direction for future research.