Indigenous Inclusion in Critical Care Research: Winnipeg Guidance Circle

On June 10, CCCTG hosted its first Indigenous-focused Guidance Circle at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Developed and coordinated by Paula Sevestre, Indigenous Engagement and Liaison Manager, this event facilitated open discussions on intensive care, bringing together those who have experienced, or have had a loved one experience the ICU, along with CCCTG members including physicians, care team members, and research coordinators.

What is a Guidance Circle?

The Guidance Circle is closely related to the traditional Indigenous practice of the Talking Circle, which is used for communication, conflict resolution, and community building with an emphasis on equality, respect, and active listening. However, a Guidance Circle is distinct in that it involves seeking advice, wisdom, or guidance from a knowledgeable individual or individuals.

The purpose of our Guidance Circle was threefold:

• Support Growth and Understanding: To share and learn about intensive care experiences from the perspectives of patients, family members, and care-team members.
• Establish Meaningful Connections: To guide CCCTG in building new, impactful Indigenous relationships.
• Prioritize Cultural Sensitivity: To help CCCTG develop culturally sensitive and respectful approaches to Indigenous perspectives in research.

Participants included 7 Indigenous patients with personal ICU experience, 3 Indigenous family members of loved ones who experienced the ICU, 8 physicians, 3 research coordinators (two of whom are Indigenous), 3 CCCTG staff, one LifTING staff member, 2 CCCTG patient and family partners members, and Elder Charlotte Nolin, who helped lead the Guidance Circle.

This work has begun to increase engagement of Indigenous voices in the planning and implementation of future CCCTG initiatives. Indigenous participants reported feeling empowered to share their experiences and perspectives, contributing to a more inclusive and respectful discussion. We are pleased to have the continued engagement of participants with follow-up conversations already taking place. The CCCTG is grateful for the guidance and connection that came from this special event.

Following this inaugural success, CCCTG will continue to hold Guidance Circles and similar programming to build an ongoing dialogue and partnership with Indigenous communities.

The full Guidance Circle report is available on request. To learn more about the CCCTG’s work towards Indigenous engagement, please contact Paula Sevestre, Indigenous Engagement and Liaison Manager or visit www.ccctg.ca/fostering-indigenous-partnerships.