Recognizing strength, building capacity [electronic resource] : Addressing Substance abuse related special needs in First Nations communities of British Columbia’s hinterlands / Sarah de Leeuw Margo Greenwood

This study was carried out within the Gitxsan territory in northwestern British Columbia. A qualitative inquiry involving four focus groups, key informant interviews, and completion of seven in - depth surveys occurred in four small communities: Gitsegukla, Kitwanga, Glen Vowell and the Hazeltons.
The research was guided by the observations of (primarily Gitxsan) participants who stated that Aboriginal communities, particularly remote reserves, are too often viewed through a ‘lens of deficit’ when social factors are being considered. While there is the express understanding by parents, community members, and service providers that significant challenges exist in remote Aboriginal communities, there exists a concurrent and equally strong desire to highlight the vitality, achievements and strengths that are so much a part of the fabric in First Nations communities.
Additionally, it was clear throughout the community consultation processes from which this research arose that a need to incorporate historical and contextual factors was paramount when considering the issues of special needs children and adolescents, particularly when the special needs of the children and adolescents arose from the misuse of substances.
Findings of this research draw attention to the desires of Aboriginal peoples to have meaningful input into any process that impacts, concerns, or affects their communities. Broader Aboriginal perspectives regarding program development,
local authority, and relevant funding in First Nations
communities, including perspectives outlined in works by Harold Adams and Wayne Warry, affirm the voices in this study.
Participants throughout the research process reiterated their willingness to impart solutions to the challenges they faced: it remains the responsibility of policy makers, funders, researchers and program providers to listen for these solutions and to account for them in their work and planning for future developments