Members of the Perinatal Opioid Exposures, Trajectories, Insights and Concentrations (POETIC) Network met for the first POETIC Elders Circle at the end of July 2025.
The goal of the Elders Circle was to bring group members and Elders together for the first time, and to discuss the integration of Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession (OCAP) principles into clinical research. Presently, there are no known protocols for how to ensure OCAP principles are upheld, or data sovereignty and biological sample ownership are done in a good way, on a national level.
The POETIC Elders Circle, led by Matriarch Dr. Elder Roberta Price, will ensure that all research protocols, including genomics research and the storage/ownership of data and biological samples, will be based on Indigenous Ethical Frameworks and guided by Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
Learnings from the day emphasize the importance of listening to Elders and following their guidance, making space for ceremony, and building authentic relationships rooted in respect.
Key ideas discussed included ways of supporting Indigenous women in reclaiming their gifts and identities, as well as recognizing the vital role of fathers in the lives of children and communities. Holistic, culturally grounded care must be offered throughout the prenatal, birth, and postpartum periods, with compassion and informed support—especially in the context of substance use and breastfeeding.
Healing and resilience are fostered through opportunities like this one: for open conversations, grief sharing, and community connection. Having strong community ties makes it easier to stand up against racism, and to meet challenges with both courage and accountability. True partnership means walking beside women, not in front or behind, and shifting away from colonial patriarchy toward Indigenous ways of knowing, honouring the land, the medicines, the plants and animals, and all those who give life.
Members of the group met the day before the Elders Circle for a tour of the Museum of Anthropology, followed by a dinner at Dr. Patricelli’s home which included a formal welcome and blessing by Elder Roberta.
The Elders Circle was held all day the next day, and the group was joined remotely by Dr. Nadine Caron, and Elder Lorraine McLeod.
Gramma Shingoose and Elder Roberta led cultural teachings during the function.
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