Decolonizing Disability: Teachings from Tx̱eemsim and Voices From the Lands of the Nisg̱a’a Nation

Abstract

Indigenous perspectives regarding disability are underrepresented in scholarly literature. This article profiles traditional perspectives and contemporary experiences regarding disability through voices from the lands of the Nisg̱a’a Nation. Influenced by Indigenous theory, this case study is based on semi-structured interviews with six diverse Indigenous community leaders including Simgigat (Hereditary Chiefs) and Sigidim Haanaḵ’ (Matriarchs). Four themes emerged: (1) Indigenous laws and cultural protocols enact principles of equity and inclusion; (2) language, kinship, and culture inform Indigenous perspectives regarding disability; (3) the gift of disability is celebrated through storytelling; and (4) colonization has negatively impacted disability for Indigenous Peoples. In addition, this study demonstrates that further research is needed on contemporary and historical disability policy in the Indian Act and disabilities in the context of Indian Residential Schools. This research considers the imposition of Western and colonially constructed disability identities while demonstrating that Indigenous knowledges, traditions, and practices are crucial to decolonizing understandings of disability in Canada and around the world.