Assistant Professor The University of British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Revisioning the scope and purpose of the Biological Survey of Canada (BSC) presents a unique opportunity to critically revisit its relationships with Indigenous peoples. Firstly, we can consider how the BSC contributes to the ongoing displacement of Indigenous scientific knowledges, whether intentional or not. Second, we have an opportunity to weave together the multiplicity of Indigenous world views in Canada with dominant western scientific paradigm, producing more sound, accurate, and balanced understandings of biodiversity in North America. Central to this approach is building meaningful long term relationships with Indigenous communities, co-producing research questions, honouring respectful sampling practices, and ensuring Indigenous data sovereignty protocols are co-developed and supported. This is a demanding process and one that cannot be rushed, but would be a step towards creating new respectful relationships with the BSC and Indigenous peoples in Canada.