Abstract
Due to colonization, Indigenous people in Canada face racialized challenges to their wellbeing and have been resourceful in developing culturally embodied forms of resistance. Using Indigenous cultural leisure and ceremonial activities as interventions can improve outcomes by providing a protective effect against ongoing colonial harms. There is a gap, however, regarding research into the experiences of Indigenous boys and men residing in Canada. We aim to identify how cultural interventions support favourable outcomes related to well-being by enabling Indigenous boys and men to establish a meaningful connection to their culture, community, and selves; and to explore whether this process is impacted by participants’ perceptions of masculinity. We further aim to provide new directions in critical leisure studies aimed at improving wellbeing among Indigenous people in Canada. Workshops and multi-day events were held by community partners where participants engaged in various cultural activities. Semi-structured interviews with participants explored culture, wellbeing, and masculinity. Interviews were inductively coded and thematically analysed to investigate potential capacity-building for wellness. Results: Connecting with other men and culture was linked to greater emotional and relational literacy. Engaging with material culture like drum-making generated feelings of pride and self-efficacy. Land-based activities produced expressions of gratitude, clarity, and self-acceptance. Positive masculinity was described as empathetic and generous towards others. Specific cultural interventions may support sexual wellbeing by building capacity to resist colonial violence and develop qualities conducive to wellbeing such as respect for oneself, others, nature, and diversity.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Critical Issues in Tourism and Leisure Studies
KEYWORDS
Masculinity, Indigenous boys and men, Land-based methods, Well-being, De-colonization
