Ways of knowing
Two-Eyed Seeing (IISH)
Apoqnmatulti’k is guided by the principle of Etuaptmumk (Two-Eyed Seeing). Conceptualized by Mi’kmaw Elder Doctor Albert Marshall, it refers to learning to see from one eye with the strength of Indigenous knowledges and ways of knowing and from the other eye with the strength of western knowledges and ways of knowing. Etuaptmumk requires space for co-learning through respectful dialogue and a willingness to learn from each other. In keeping with this principle, all aspects of Apoqnmatulti’k have been shaped with joint participation from project partners, including project governance, research questions, and communication outputs.
A knowledge system—or way of knowing—is built on individual and cultural values and beliefs. The strength of each knowledge system (Indigenous, local, and Western scientific) is rooted in how it is practiced, transmitted, and adapted. These values are central to Apoqnmatulti’k. When multiple knowledge systems are brought together, conflicts may arise due to the different worldviews and perspectives. However, when respect for each partner's knowledge system is at the forefront of the collaborative process, navigating these conflicts can become a powerful catalyst for change and learning.
Apoqnmatulti’k draws on the strengths of different perspectives and knowledge systems. This holistic approach is critical to better understand valued aquatic species and their ecosystems. Learn more about each of the knowledge systems that guide Apoqnmatulti’k activities below.
Indigenous knowledge
Indigenous communities have had a long-standing, rich relationship with the coast and its inhabitants for millennia. Indigenous knowledge is the deep connection between knowledge holders and the natural world. This knowledge is accumulated over time and passed down through generations.
Apoqnmatulti’k project partners at the Unama’ki Institute of Natural Resources (UINR) and Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq (CMM) help to ensure that Mi'kmaw values, such as Netukulimk and M’sit No’kmaq are central to all project activities. M’sit No’kmaq means ‘all my relations’ and represents our relationship with the natural world. It is the interconnectedness between all things, including humans, animals, plants and water, and recognizes the importance of respecting these connections. M’sit No’kmaq is part of Netukulimk, the guiding way of life for the Mi’kmaq. Netukulimk ensures that individual and community needs are met while preserving the sustainability of natural resources for future generations. In line with this principle, Apoqnmatulti’k partners aim to minimize the impact of project activities by only taking from the natural world what is necessary to achieve the research goals.
Within each study site, community liaisons are central to the success of Apoqnmatulti’k and are key to directing the project if it is becoming too narrowly focused on western science. They help to bridge the community and the project, ensuring that community interests and concerns are at the forefront of guiding and shaping project activities. Community liaisons also ensure knowledge exchange about the species and Mi’kmaw culture is embedded into the research process and partnership activities.
LoCAL KNOWLEDGE
Local knowledge is a place-based understanding developed over time through direct, lived experiences with an environment. This knowledge encompasses essential teachings and skills that are critical to navigating and developing a strong understanding of a unique and complex ecosystem.
Within Apoqnmatuti’k, local knowledge plays a key role in guiding field activities including ensuring the safe and optimal deployment of receivers based on local conditions.This is particularly important within a dynamic ecosystem, such as the Bay of Fundy, where timing fieldwork with the highest and most powerful tide the world is critical to the safety and success of a mission. Local knowledge holders also help to inform the research questions by bringing forward the observations and concerns from local communities and sectors, such as commercial fishing, and share the knowledge they hold from years of living and interacting with the ecosystem to help address existing knowledge gaps among focal species.
Photo by: Aaron Beswick
Western Knowledge
Western scientific knowledge relies on the scientific method, which is a systematic and highly structured approach. It is intended to be repeatable for gathering, analyzing, and validating information. The process usually involves forming a hypothesis, conducting experiments, collecting data, analyzing results, and drawing conclusions that suggest further research. Findings are mainly shared through academic journal articles, reports, or presentations at scientific conferences. While these platforms are important for sharing knowledge within the broader scientific community, they often do not reach the general public, including communities most impacted by the research or findings.
Historically, western scientific knowledge has been the dominant paradigm in shaping policies and practices for the conservation and management of aquatic resources. This approach has its limitations since it excludes key information, including Indigenous and local knowledge. It also leaves out individuals and communities who rely on these ecosystems and are most impacted by management decisions.
Apoqnmatulti’k utilizes scientific knowledge, specifically acoustic telemetry, as a tool in the research process to help understand the movements of aquatic species. The tracking equipment and infrastructure are a component of this methodology. By combining Indigenous and local knowledge with scientific knowledge throughout the research process, it is possible to create a holistic understanding of the aquatic ecosystem. This approach enhances stewardship efforts of valued aquatic species for the benefit of current and future generations.
Learn more about the connection between decision-making and different ways of knowing in our article here: Two-Eyed Seeing: A way forward for aquatic stewardship.