A Word From Our Co-Editors

Co-Editor’s Message

The Journal of Indigenous Social Development is a collective commitment to honor and advance Indigenous knowledges and wellbeing. We recognize the important contributions Indigenous people have made towards the well-being of people and communities across the globe. These contributions continue in many areas from physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well-being and development; to social, political, economic, and cultural advancements; to practical matters such as food, medicine, ties to land and waters, and community well-being. 

Other people and nations are recognizing the significance of these contributions to offset the global and local challenges we are facing. Yet, challenges remain, including the continued efforts to colonize Indigenous nations and marginalize Indigenous peoples’ contributions.

Indigenous peoples understand how the colonial conceptualization of social work, social welfare, and social development threatens not only Indigenous peoples, but the social well-being of all people and their wholistic relationships with their environments. These critical understandings and challenges of the colonizing efforts, along with the important contributions made by Indigenous peoples, are the central drive for the Journal of Social Development. 

We believe that the ideas and practices shared in this journal will be important supports for the well-being of all people broadly, and Indigenous people specifically. 

On behalf of all people involved in this important work, we thank you for your interest in and willingness to contribute. 

With respect and gratitude to the many languages, lands, and peoples who guide our voices

ʻO au iho nō me ka haʻahaʻa,
(I remain with humility, in Ōlelo Hawaiʻi )

ᑭᐦᑖᐤ ᐃᒥᐦᑕᐤ, ᒥᔪᑌᐦ ᐊᐄᐧᔭᐠ.
(I go onward with gratitude, thanks to you all, in Plains Cree)

Nāku noa, nā —
(Yours sincerely, in Te Reo Māori )

Hoogagtend,
(Respectfully, in Afrikaans.)

Ngokuhlonipha,
(Respectfully, in isiZulu.)

शुभकामना सहित,
(With good wishes, in Nepali.)

Huy tseep q’u,
(Thank you to you all, in a Coast Salish language.)

Pidamayayapi.
(I am grateful to you all, in Dakota.)

Your Co-Editors,       

Dr. Michael Anthony Hart & Dr. Paula Morelli