The Over-representation of Indigenous Youth: Perceptions of Indigenous Youth in the Community

• In Event: Poster Session II

Abstract

There are very few, if any, Canadian studies which have engaged and consulted Indigenous youth on their perceptions regarding why Indigenous youth are over represented in youth custody. The central purpose of the following study was to give voice to young Indigenous peoples’ opinions regarding this issue. Talking circles were the means by which focus groups were established for this study. Each talking circle was led by an Elder, his two Oshkawbaywuss (helpers/apprentices) and an Indigenous Cultural Advisor. Participants linked colonization and residential schools to a) loss of Indigenous ceremony, culture and tradition, b) the destruction of the Indigenous family unit and Indigenous parenting practices, c) racism and stereotypes, all of which have culminated in d) the loss of identity and sense of self. Each of these issues they saw as intricately connected and as the participants noted, inextricably connected to the over-representation of youth in the criminal justice system and youth custody.

Authors

• Christopher Grol, UOIT

• Carla Cesaroni, UOIT