Collaborating with Native Nations to conduct research

Abstract

Engaging Native Nations and Native American populations in research and evaluation requires a bidirectional collaborative approach and thoughtful partnership that recognizes the important role of Tribal sovereignty. This article summarizes the reasons why bidirectional collaborations are critical for non-Indigenous organizations conducting research and evaluating initiatives developed by or implemented with Native Nations. It shares examples of bidirectional research and evaluation collaborations with the Navajo Nation and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. These examples reinforce suggestions for collaboration from the Native Nations Institute at the University of Arizona, Indigenous organizations, and researchers who raise awareness about the important processes, approaches, and considerations individuals should take when engaging Native Nations in research, evaluation, and projects more broadly.