Reconciliation in child and youth care practice: Exploring the relocation experiences of female Indigenous youth in foster care

Conference presentation presented at the Child and Youth Care Conference in Richmond, British Columbia (May, 2018).

Indigenous youth are over represented in the Canadian Child Welfare system as a result of colonization, residential schools, and the removal of Indigenous children from families. There is limited understanding of this populations’ experience of relocation while in foster care. This study answers the question, “What stories of relocation are told by female Indigenous youth in foster care who have relocated from rural northern communities and are residing in a Lower Mainland residential program?” Using Metis Beadwork/Indigenous Storywork methodology, I used beadwork teachings combined with the seven Storywork principles to guide my research and engage with storytellers which include: respect, responsibility, reciprocity, reverence, holism, interrelatedness, and synergy. Findings from this study reveal the youths perspectives on their experiences of relocation and create space for youth voice in research. Findings may also guide service providers in providing culturally appropriate, effective, and meaningful services to Indigenous youth in the child welfare system. Findings are presented in three sections: leaving, arriving, and adjusting. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action (2015) are outlined and connected to the stories of the youth and a discussion will take place regarding moving towards reconciliation in child and youth care practice.