Document Type
Poster Session
Department
Social Work
Faculty Mentor
Rachel Casey
Keywords
Indigenous, Native, Homelessness, Food Insecurity, Sexual Violence, Social Services
Abstract
Native, Aboriginal, and First Nations individuals experience higher rates of homelessness, food insecurity, sexual violence, and other social inequalities than people of other races (Christensen et al., 2017; Shoemaker et al., 2020; Du Mont et al., 2017; Wahab & Olson, 2004; McCarron et al., 2018; Moullin et al., 2019; Myhra et al., 2015; Stevens et al., 2015; Cueva et al, 2020), and there is a distinct lack of resources for these individuals. However, when individuals do access available resources, they often experience anti-Native sentiment (Hoss & Blum, 2019; Pedersen et al, 2006). Thus, we hope to learn about Indigenous peoples’ perceptions of social services and how they can be improved to best meet their needs. This study involves a qualitative survey of Indigenous people about their experiences accessing social services. Preliminary findings indicate limited available resources and social services, especially those led by Natives; what is available often does not address specific cultural needs.
Open Access?
1
Included in
Indigenous Experiences of Social Services
Native, Aboriginal, and First Nations individuals experience higher rates of homelessness, food insecurity, sexual violence, and other social inequalities than people of other races (Christensen et al., 2017; Shoemaker et al., 2020; Du Mont et al., 2017; Wahab & Olson, 2004; McCarron et al., 2018; Moullin et al., 2019; Myhra et al., 2015; Stevens et al., 2015; Cueva et al, 2020), and there is a distinct lack of resources for these individuals. However, when individuals do access available resources, they often experience anti-Native sentiment (Hoss & Blum, 2019; Pedersen et al, 2006). Thus, we hope to learn about Indigenous peoples’ perceptions of social services and how they can be improved to best meet their needs. This study involves a qualitative survey of Indigenous people about their experiences accessing social services. Preliminary findings indicate limited available resources and social services, especially those led by Natives; what is available often does not address specific cultural needs.
