Moving Forward Together in Aboriginal Women's Health: - Theses ...

Moving Forward TogetherJanet Kellyand potential outcomes/benefits of research has enabled Aboriginal people tomake informed decisions about becoming involved with the research.The Aboriginal Reference Group members, co-researchers and otherparticipants guided all phases of this research. During the consultation processco-researchers and stakeholders discussed local politics and recent historicalevents that could easily be reignited leading to disharmony and conflict. As aresult, considerable thought and discussion went into choosing methodologyand methods that could maximise success and reduce potential harm. Ongoingformal and informal discussions and compilation of formal reports have beenshared with the Aboriginal Women’s Reference Group, co-researchers andstakeholders.Survival and protectionAboriginal people have identified the importance of protecting cultures, valuesand identities from further erosion by colonisation, marginalisation and poorresearch practices. Researchers need to recognise the strength and abilities ofAboriginal people, families and communities, and ensure that their researchprocesses and outcomes respect and support cultural ties and bonds, notdamage and erode them (National Health and Medical Research Council2003).Thus my aim has been to work with Aboriginal people in ways that enhancecapacity, are supportive, and avoid research activities that could undermine thewomen, their families or community groups. Recognising that Aboriginalpeople are not a homogenous group, but rather diverse with their communitiesand individual experiences being as complex and varied as any other group ofpeople, has also been important. Where ever possible Aboriginal women’sstrengths and achievements have been highlighted to counter the negativestereotypes portrayed locally, as well as within the media and wider society.For example, when working with the young Aboriginal women in schoolprograms, positive Aboriginal role models were also involved, reinforcingpositive opportunities and outcomes for Aboriginal women.115