From participants to partners: Indigenous community engagement practices in neuroscience research

This chapter brings forth the importance of partnership-based community engagement as an approach for meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities in neuroscience research. While there is growing interest in participatory engagement within neuroscience, Indigenous communities remain significantly underrepresented. Historically, efforts to involve Indigenous peoples in research have faced significant criticism due to unethical practices and a lack of meaningful collaboration. For instance, even the most well-intentioned traditional participatory approaches, such as patient and public involvement, often fall short in fostering the depth of collaboration needed. These methods can sometimes position communities as passive participants, rather than active decision-makers, limiting the extent of shared ownership and leadership in the research process. In contrast, a partnership-based approach emphasizes reciprocity and positions Indigenous communities as equal partners, creating space for mutual learning and co-leadership. In neuroscience, there is an urgent need to shift towards more inclusive, community-based approaches that engage Indigenous communities as equal partners. By fostering collaboration and reciprocity, partnership-based community engagement efforts can address past malpractices and contribute to improved brain health and wellness in these communities, ensuring that their unique perspectives and needs are respected.