Abstract
Due to colonization, Indigenous people in Canada face racialized challenges to their wellbeing, including sexual wellbeing, and have been resourceful in developing culturally embodied forms of resistance. Using Indigenous cultural activities as interventions can improve outcomes by providing a protective effect against ongoing colonial harms. There is a gap, however, regarding research into the experiences of Indigenous boys and men. We identify how cultural interventions support favourable sexual health outcomes by enabling Indigenous boys and men to establish a meaningful connection to their culture, community, and selves; and to explore whether this process is impacted by participants’ perceptions of masculinity. We further aim to provide new directions in critical studies aimed at improving wellbeing among Indigenous people in Canada. Workshops and multi-day events were held by community partners (Healing Our Nations & Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre) where participants engaged in various cultural activities. Semi-structured interviews with participants explored culture, wellbeing, and masculinity. Interviews were inductively coded and thematically analysed to investigate potential capacity-building for sexual wellness. Connecting with other men and culture was linked to greater emotional and relational literacy. Engaging with material culture like drum-making generated feelings of pride and self-efficacy. Land-based activities produced expressions of gratitude, clarity, and self-acceptance. Positive masculinity was described as empathetic and generous towards others. Specific cultural interventions may support sexual wellbeing by building capacity to resist colonial violence and develop qualities conducive to sexual wellbeing such as respect for oneself, others, nature, and diversity.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Indigenous, Masculinities, Wellbeing, Cultural interventions, Land-based, Participatory
