Letitia Pokiak
My doctoral research examines Inuvialuit land-based pedagogies as a critical site for transmitting Traditional Knowledges, values, governance, and sovereignty to future leaders. The research focuses on developing curriculum and land-based programs that enable Inuvialuit youth and high school students to earn university credits while learning the intent and purpose of the Inuvialuit land claim.
Research description
The focus of my research is to consult with Inuvialuit knowledge holders and youth, as well as to conduct a literature review regarding Indigenous pedagogies and self-determination, with the purpose of developing a ‘land-based curriculum and program’ built on the Inuvialuit Final Agreement (IFA, 2005). Following the completion of my MA Anthropology degree in Sept. 2020, I had the idea of establishing an education program that teaches Inuvialuit high school and post-secondary students the importance of the IFA, which has become the basis and entrenchment of Inuvialuit sovereignty in contemporary Canadian politics and society. During fieldwork for my thesis, it was mentioned by my Elders that Inuvialuit youth don’t know the spirit, intent and meaning of the IFA. As the youth will be our future leaders, it is important for them to understand how our way of life is instrumental in maintaining Inuvialuit self-determination and sovereignty.
What does being a Public Scholar mean?
As an Inuvialuk, it means that I not only represent my Inuvialuit community, but Indigenous communities in their efforts to do Indigenous research that is relevant to our communities. As a Public Indigenous Scholar, the awareness of Indigenous research may reach the broader public. I feel a sense of responsibility and humility to have my research showcased, but I do so to mobilize Indigenous knowledges and ways that are being revitalized.
In what ways do you think the PhD experience can be re-imagined with this Initiative?
It is nice to have options for supports that are available to PhD and EdD students. I can see how initiatives such as the PSI create opportunities and success for graduate students and researchers. Without Initiatives such as the PSI, it would me more challenging to complete a PhD or EdD program. Being able to connect with other students and researchers is also important for networking and sharing knowledge.
How do you envision connecting your PhD work with broader career possibilities?
The pursuit of the degree was a means to an end really, as I envisioned my dissertation to be an extension of my thesis. It was a way to carry our traditional Inuvialuit knowledges forward, by educating Inuvialuit youth regarding the spirit, purpose and intent of the Inuvialuit Final Agreement. I can’t predict where this EdD will lead me to once I am done my research, writing and defence, but I do hope that this is an example of the ways in which we as Indigenous Peoples can leverage initiatives such as the PSI to mobilize our Traditional Knowledges in meaningful ways for our Indigenous youth.
How does your research engage with the larger community and social partners?
My objective is to engage with each of the six Inuvialuit Community Corporations and the Hunters and Trappers Committees, as all research in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region is vetted through these organizations. This requires engaging, presenting and consulting with them to determine connections and ways in which community research can be done in good ways.
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
The Ts’’kel Indigenous Educational Leadership and Resurgence Ed.D Pathway was brought to my attention by a colleague. Because it is an all Indigenous cohort for an Indigenous Education program that is being delivered remotely, I thought it would be a great opportunity to carry out the suggestion and vision of my Elders of teaching our Inuvialuit youth the Inuvialuit Final Agreement while being on the land.
Why did you choose to come to British Columbia and study at UBC?
UBC is where the Ts’’kel Indigenous Educational Leadership and Resurgence EdD Pathway is being delivered. It was the only doctorate program I applied to.
