Research summary
Indigenous Peoples in Canada face gaps when it comes to accessing culturally safe sexual and reproductive health services. But community-driven solutions could help fill these. As Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Midwifery, Dr. Karen Lawford is mapping the gender-inclusive sexual and reproductive health services that currently exist as well as those needed by Indigenous communities.
She and her research team are developing an open-access digital atlas to identify where services are located and how easily Indigenous communities can access them. They are also working on a secure data storage bank that aligns with First Nations principles and strategies. This work is part of systemic efforts to undo colonial harms and help Indigenous Peoples to reclaim decision-making power over their own health and care. By supporting Indigenous self-determination and addressing urgent maternal health challenges, Lawford’s research will create equitable, community-led health care solutions.