The Pe-kīwēwin project: research practicum report

Abstract

The Pe-kīwēwin (Coming Home) project is a 5-year long project designed to uncover policies that led to the Indigenous Child Removal System (ICRS) beginning in the 1950’s. The following is a research practicum report detailing my experience as a research practicum student on the Pe-kīwēwin project. My objectives on the project were to learn about Indigenous research methodology, to learn about and conduct archival research, and to review existing literature relating to child welfare and the ICRS. The report includes a discussion of practicum objectives. Literature pertaining to child welfare, transracial adoption, and Indigenous helping is examined. The methodology used to guide both the Pe-kīwēwin project and my research practicum is discussed. The report includes a discussion of research practicum findings, including how I was guided by theory and practice, consistent with social work values. Ethical considerations and personal challenges are explored. The report reviews completed practicum objectives. I examine implications of Indigenous knowledge and research on social work theory and practice. The report concludes with personal recommendations and an overview of my practicum experience.