Grant: Travel Awards - Institute Community Support

Background: Knowledge translation (KT) is about sharing knowledge in contexts where the knowledge is both relevant and valued. Effective KT is critical to implementing program and policy changes that require shared understandings of knowledge systems, assumptions, and practices. Mainstream KT initiatives and concepts however do not necessarily resonate with Indigenous ways of knowing and doing. Objectives: This systematic review examined literature on KT initiatives in Indigenous health research to identify wise and promising Indigenous KT practices in Canada and abroad. Methods: The review was guided by Indigenous health researchers, engaged Indigenous Elders, and used an Indigenous research critical appraisal tool. The search included published literature from indexed and non-indexed databases globally and grey literature from Indigenous health research funders (government and Indigenous organizations) within Canada only. To be included in the review, documents had to meet the following criteria: 1) focused on primarily Indigenous people; 2) linked to Indigenous health and well-being; 3) document KT goals, activities, and rationale; 4) evaluated the KT activities or outcomes; and 5) scored six or more in their critical appraisal. Results: Findings from this review reveal wise KT approaches and practices for researchers and Indigenous communities. The presentation will discuss ways in which effective Indigenous KT is conceptually and operationally different from mainstream KT concepts and practices. Conclusions: While this systematic review adhered to standard protocols, it was also designed and conducted using Indigenous health research principles throughout (such as being guided by Indigenous scholars and appraising literature based on Indigenous community relevance).