The Institute of Indigenous Issues & Perspectives

A group of Trinity Western University (TWU) scholars and external collaborators have established a university research institute called The Institute of Indigenous Issues and Perspectives (Canada/Australia/New Zealand) (IIIP). IIIP aims to provide a forum for greater understanding of a broad range of diversity issues pertaining to Indigenous peoples in Canada, Australia and New Zealand, three countries with similar colonial backgrounds, issues and Aboriginal policies applied in different ways. 

The term ‘Indigenous’ is used to describe the Aboriginal, First Nations, Inuit, Metis, Māori, and Torres Strait Islander populations of these three focus countries. The Indigenous experiences of other countries, particularly those of Native Americans, will be explored as they relate to the issues and perspectives of the focus countries.

In relation to the Indigenous people of British Columbia and Canada, TWU as a Christian university upholds truth, justice and reconciliation. An institute of Indigenous issues and perspectives located at TWU offers the university and surrounding community a distinctive association to assist with community development, bridge-building and the advancement of knowledge for Indigenous people and provides cross-cultural education between Indigenous and non- Indigenous society. 

IIIP promotes the holistic nature of research and education. It is cross-disciplinary, practical and project-based. It examines the role of Indigenous identity, perspectives, innovations, treaties and policy and in relation to Canadian/Australian/New Zealand history, culture, religion, class, education, politics, law and health. It facilitates the development of collaborative, interdisciplinary approaches to Indigenous research, bringing together diverse interests in a creative manner.  IIIP facilitates opportunities to allow for the creation and exchange of research and information on Indigenous policing models, spirituality, identity, post-colonialism research and policy issues. 

It aims to foster information sharing and research and enhance cross-national opportunities for communication and discussion. It provides an interdisciplinary forum for ideas, debates and discussion, bringing together local and international emerging and leading stakeholders and scholars from the Creative Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences with a shared focus on understanding the Indigenous issues in this region and across the globe. 

Finally, IIIP encourages active participation of undergraduate and graduate students in institute-related research projects, particularly the involvement and input of Indigenous students as well as Indigenous staff and faculty from the TWU campus and other surrounding educational institutions.

Director
Matthew Etherington, PhD

Co-Director
Bruce Shelvey, PhD

University Siya:m
Patti Victor, MA