Development in a "Developed" World: An Indigenous Approach

Speaker
Julie Pelletier
Affiliation
Associate Professor, Anthropology, University of Winnipeg & Visiting Scholar, ICGC
Date and Time:
-
Location:

537 Heller Hall

Abstract: Development models and projects focus primarily, if not entirely, on ‘other’ societies and countries and not on conditions in developed countries such as Canada and the U.S. Encounters between those identified as needing help and those who position themselves as helpers often play out the dynamics of ‘otherness,’ especially when aid workers go from their developed countries to underdeveloped countries. Sustainable Development Goals are conceived as relevant outside of the borders of the developed world. The MPD in Indigenous Development challenges the standard approach to development by identifying and addressing development challenges in the developed world for Indigenous communities, by rejecting the one-size-fits-all solutions to development often touted by NGOs and national governments, by addressing the colonial foundation of inequality and oppression, and through a strengths-based approach to collaborative Indigenous community engagement. This paper provides an analysis of the MDP in Indigenous Development approach as well as a brief discussion of projects undertaken by MDP student development practitioners, offering a different look at development and development practitioners. 

Downloadable flyer: 

Kaltura

About the Speaker

Julie Pelletier is Associate Professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Winnipeg. Her specialization is cultural anthropology and Indigenous studies. Areas of research and teaching interest include Indigenization and decolonization of academia, Indigenous representations, and American Indian and First Nations gaming and casinos. 

She is in residence with ICGC during the 2023-24 academic year.

Interdisciplinary Research Colloquium

The Interdisciplinary Research Colloquium series offers informal lectures and discussions on current research projects by ICGC Scholars, affiliated faculty, visiting scholars, and practitioners. These events are open to the public. Guests are welcome to bring their lunches and eat during the sessions.