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Wesley McKay and Franz Seibel travelled to Ottawa to join other researchers at the National Aboriginal Health Organization's conference this week.

The focus of the meeting was Aboriginal Health Research and was highlighted by the the release of NAHO's Regional Health Survey (RHS).  The principals of OCAP (Ownership, Control, Access and Possession) are the cornerstone of NAHO's community-based research agenda.

The survey consists of community-based and owned research. Data Warrior was a term coined to describe those dedicated to protecting First Nations Information and upholding the First Nations Principals of OCAP. The Minister of State (Public Health), the Honourable Carolyn Bennett PC, MP spoke of a health care system that was not a repair shop for sick people but that health consits of living a healthly life, helping your neighbor and building strong communities. The presiding elder spoke of looking to your left and right to greet and love your neighbor. Willie Ermine discussed Ethical Space, a space between two individuals that needs to be considered when two people meet, whether it be for research or other purposes. That space needs to be filled with respect, friendship and a reciprocal relationship when conducting research. 

Jim Dumont discussed how a standard has been created to rate the health of First Nations in a western fashion. However he suggested that an aboriginal standard of health be created which includes physical, mental, cultural and emotional health. He also coined the phrase "indigenoscity". Other sessions included the experiences of the RHS on establishing a research model, ethics committee and best research practices. A workshop discussing research in Elsipogtog FN, NB echoed the best practices of the RHS committee and added many others. 

During the gathering, Wes and Franz manned a display booth celebrating the work of KO, especially K-Net, KOTH and KO Health. Wes and Franz are expecting a series of follow up meetings between KO and other First Nations health organizations. To see pictures from the conference click here