Moving Beyond the Decolonization Framework: Indigenous Research, Collaboration, and Decision-Making in Mi’kma’ki

Abstract

This dissertation is divided into three parts. Part I addresses the researchquestion, literature review, and methodologies. Part II is a treatment of original research that took place at Membertou Mi’kmaq Band between 2010 and 2013. The community centered research model is described in detail, which is followed by new analysis of data that was collected during that community-centered research. Part III discusses the context of Mi’kmaq Nation action over the last several decades. This action is influenced by the experience of Donald Marshall, Jr. in two major legal cases: 1) Marshall’s wrongful conviction and incarceration for murder, and then exoneration; and 2) Marshall’s arrest for violating provincial fishing laws, leading to a landmark decision on Mi’kmaw land, hunting and fishing, and commerce rights. Both these cases, along with evolving standards for Aboriginal rights, consultation, and accommodation, and changing institutional arrangements at Mi’kmaq led to the collaborative governance regime, the Made in Nova Scotia Process.