Accepting a position as a research intern with More Than Words a few months ago, I could have never imagined just how much I would learn and grow creatively, intellectually, and emotionally over my time at the project. Not only was everyone I had the privilege to work with delightful, warm, and accommodating, but the work being done by More Than Words, Networks for Change, and the other projects at McGill’s Institute for Human Development and Well-being was truly inspiring. Now entering my fourth and final year, I began my journey towards participatory arts-based and Indigenous-led research when I entered the Indigenous Studies program as a minor, already majoring in Psychology and History. I was particularly interested in Indigenous legal systems, concepts of sovereignty, and the promotion of social justice and human rights. What first attracted me to the More Than Words project was a quote on their website from the brilliant academic Eve Tuck’s article on avoiding ‘damage-centred’ Indigenous research, reminding researchers how important it is to shed light on the positive narratives that unfold in Indigenous spaces and to not simply focus on the negatives. I believe this philosophy has been authentically captured by the More Than Words project, as its mission is to empower young Indigenous women throughout Canada and combat sexual and gender-based violence through girl-led Indigenous methodologies and strategies.
After being graciously accepted to the position, I soon learned that my responsibilities would bleed into the numerous other projects under the directorship of Professor Claudia Mitchell, which meant even more fantastic opportunities. Not only was I able to do work for Indigenous sites as far reaching as Nunavut, Nova Scotia, and Saskatchewan/Treaty 6 Territory, but I also began work with various sites in South Africa as well. One of the biggest highlights from the internship was helping to organize an online Imbizo event that connected young girls internationally from both Canada and South Africa. It was heart-warming and encouraging to see so many young girls from marginalized communities use their voices in strong and powerful ways, share their experiences, and bond, even if it was an online setting thanks to COVID-19. Other initiatives I undertook included the launch of a podcast series that seeks to amplify the voices of Indigenous women and girls; Circle Back: Stories of Reflection, Connection and Transformation. Despite being there for only a few months, we accomplished so much in a short period of time, thanks to the hard work from those here in Montreal as well as globally. I hope to continue this work in various capacities as we look to the future.
With so much going on, multitasking was an important skill throughout the internship. Along with balancing my work with other extra-curriculars, I forwent an academic credit. I came away with far more practical and professional experience than I could have ever imagined. My work coincided with crucial developments here in Canada, too, including the on-going discovery of mass grave sites at multiple residential schools across the many provinces. Many of the Indigenous leaders and youth that we worked with were greatly impacted by these discoveries. Moments like this remind us how vital it is to support Indigenous communities as they continue to deal with the realities of living within a colonial system. Now more than ever, we must not only listen and lend understanding, but take action. That is what the More Than Words project has strived to do.
I would like to thank all of those at More Than Words, including my supervisor Leann Brown, as well as Professor Mitchell and everyone else at the Institute for Human Development and Well-being for this distinguished opportunity.
