Building structures of environmental repossession to reclaim land, self-determination and Indigenous wellness

• Published in: Health & place Vol. 73; p. 102725
• Main Authors: Nightingale, Elana, Richmond, Chantelle A.M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Elsevier Ltd 01.01.2022; Elsevier Science Ltd
• Subjects: Anishinaabe; Canada; Community; Disadvantaged; Environmental repossession; Health disparities; Historical structures; Humans; Indigenous peoples; Indigenous self-determination; Indigenous wellness; Land; Personal Autonomy; Qualitative analysis; Qualitative research; Repossession; Self determination; Settler colonialism; Sustainable development; Canada; Anishinaabe; Canada; Environmental repossession; Indigenous self-determination; Indigenous wellness; Settler colonialism
• ISSN: 1353-8292; 1873-2054
• DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2021.102725

In Canada, Indigenous health inequalities are sustained by colonial structures that create social disadvantage and limit Indigenous self-determination to Land. Drawing on the concept of environmental repossession, this study explores how Indigenous communities are building local structures to reclaim their territories and renew the values, responsibilities and knowledges tied to these places for wellness. Specifically, this study examines the meanings of the everyday work of the Department of Sustainable Development in Biigtigong Nishnaabeg and shares lessons for other communities seeking to foster self-determination over Land, identity and wellness. Qualitative analysis of interviews with current and former department staff members support an advanced understanding of how repossession strategies are sustained by Indigenous communities to foster place-based goals and address structural barriers to wellness. •Structural barriers limit Indigenous health equity and are rooted in colonialism.•Reclaiming land is key to asserting self-determination and restoring wellness.•Environmental repossession efforts require leadership, a committed team and sustainable funding.•Indigenous communities are building local structures to sustain repossession efforts over the long term.