Indigenous Offenders and Risk: Exploring ODARA's Usefulness in the Justice System with Jennifer Hegel

In today's episode of Resolving Violence, we explore the groundbreaking work of the Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan (SASS). As a provincial non-profit organization, SASS collaborates with frontline agencies, community partners, and governments to provide vital support and advocacy for those impacted by sexual violence in Saskatchewan.

With over 25 years of experience, SASS has facilitated knowledge-sharing, collected crucial data, and bolstered the capabilities of frontline agencies while fostering intersectoral collaborations. Recently, SASS has assumed a leadership role in developing an inclusive and collaborative approach to addressing sexual violence in the province.

Our conversation is led by three esteemed individuals deeply entrenched in this field: Somiya Tabassum, Fakhra Shahid, and Dr. Marie Lovrod. They are actively involved in crafting innovative sexual violence education programs aimed at raising awareness and preventing such incidents. Today, they will shed light on the Saskatchewan Sexual Violence Education (SSVE) Initiative, a partnership between SASS and the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations. This initiative addresses the pressing need for educational programming that acknowledges the intersecting forms of sexual violence experienced by marginalized groups in Saskatchewan.

Join the rich conversation, and glean valuable insights into building a safer, more inclusive society for everyone.

Learn More About Our Guests:
Somiya Tabassum is a community nurturer and educational change maker, with a background in psychology and legal policy. During her tenure at Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan, she delved into how education could serve as a potent tool in combating sexualized violence in the province.

A central aspect of Somiya's work has been her dedication to "centering the margins," a term she fervently advocates for. This approach involves amplifying the voices and experiences of those most affected by sexualized violence, who are often marginalized in decision-making processes. 

Fakhra Shahid is a passionate advocate for mental health and a dedicated educator specializing in psychology and issues related to violence. Her journey in the world of psychology began with a deep love for understanding the intricacies of the human mind, and she has since become a driving force for positive change. Fakhra’s strength lies in her ability to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Her academic journey instilled in her a profound appreciation for the power of research and education to improve the lives of individuals struggling with challenges. As the SSVE Program Lead at SASS, she has made it her mission to provide crucial support to the community, emphasizing the importance of the healing process.

To connect with Fakhra, contact her at: fakhra@sassk.ca

Marie Lovrod, PhD, is an associate professor in Women's and Gender Studies, as well as English, at the University of Saskatchewan. As a feminist researcher, Marie explores the connections between lived gendered experiences and structural forces, encompassing both material and conceptual realms.

Dedicated to leveraging institutional resources to empower marginalized groups and enhance their access to political power, Marie has made numerous substantial contributions towards addressing violence across various contexts. Her work spans a wide array of topics, including the impact of colonial educational environments, responses to childhood trauma, gender label practices in China, and the subject we will be discussing today, among others.

To connect with Dr. Lovord, contact her at: marie.lovrod@usask.ca

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

In this episode of the Resolving Violence Podcast, listeners are treated to a profound conversation with Morgana Machea, a dedicated program manager at the Aboriginal Friendship Centres of Saskatchewan. 

With a rich background in gender studies and activism, Morgana shares insights from their MA thesis, illuminating the resilience of indigenous women in Brazil. Despite facing colonialist pressures, these women have displayed remarkable strength in reclaiming digital spaces, showcasing their unwavering determination to preserve their cultural identities. 

Morgana also delves into the pivotal work being done at the Friendship Centres to support indigenous women and Two-Spirit individuals, highlighting projects such as Honouring Her Spark and the Safe Space Strategy. Their passion for indigenous knowledge and the communities they serve shines through, as they encourage listeners to engage with their local Friendship Centres. 

Join us in exploring practical ways to support and uplift indigenous voices, as we work towards the creation of safer, more inclusive communities.

Learn More About Our Guest:
Morgana Mechea is a program manager at the Aboriginal Friendship Centres of Saskatchewan, who works within the Centre for Indigenous Women, Two-Spirit, and Gender Diversity. They are of settler descent from Pantanal, Brazil, the land of the Guató, Boró, Pericú, Yipaxá, and Umatina peoples. Morgana is passionate about social justice and reconciliation, and has a background in gender studies and activism. Since migrating to Canada, Morgana has dedicated their time to learning with Indigenous peoples of Treaty 6 territory about better ways to connect and take care of one another, joining in the efforts to build safer futures for all.

To connect with Morgana, contact them at: sssmanager@afca.ca

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

In today's episode of Resolving Violence we're joined by Keira Stockdale, an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology and Health Studies at the University of Saskatchewan. 

Keira's vast expertise in clinical, correctional, forensic, and police psychology sets the stage for an enlightening discussion on her groundbreaking research collaboration with computer scientists. The conversation explores the innovative application of machine learning to a general risk need assessment instrument, aiming to predict criminal recidivism.

Alongside our host, Keira unravels the intricacies of risk assessment within the criminal justice realm, emphasizing the crucial role of structured tools in evaluating risk dynamics. 

From dissecting the nuances of static and dynamic risk factors to unraveling the significance of the Level of Service Case Management Inventory, their dialogue offers profound insights into assessing the likelihood of reoffending and the evolution of risk evaluation methodologies over time.

Join us in exploring the potential of interdisciplinary collaborations and cutting-edge technologies to prevent future harm and promote safer communities!

Learn More About Our Guest:
Keira Stockdale is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology and Health Studies at the University of Saskatchewan. She is also a registered doctoral psychologist who has provided professional psychology services in the province of Saskatchewan for the past 15 years. Keira has expertise in clinical, correctional, forensic, and police psychology, having worked within local criminal justice and mental health systems. She was the first full-time operational psychologist working within a criminal investigations division of a municipal police agency in Canada.

Keira's clinical research and scholarly activities have primarily focused on assessment, treatment, consultation, and advocacy for justice-involved youth and adults with histories of violence. She is passionate about applied forensic behavioral sciences, clinically informed community safety technologies, and innovative interdisciplinary collaborations that can prevent violence and promote safer communities for all.

To connect with Keira, contact her at: keira.stockdale@usask.ca

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

In today's episode of Resolving Violence, we had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Jaris Swidrowich, an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto's Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy and a trailblazer in Indigenous health and LGBTQ+ healthcare.

Dr. Swidrowich's  delves into the complexities of vaccine hesitancy among Indigenous populations in Canada, rooted in historical traumas and systemic discrimination. The conversation also highlights the importance of understanding Indigenous perspectives, and building trust within communities to address this hesitancy effectively.

Drawing from his wealth of experience, Dr. Swidrowich shares insightful strategies for reducing hesitancy, including culturally relevant communication and community-led vaccination clinics. He also emphasizes the need for genuine collaboration with Indigenous partners and calls for a fundamental shift in how service providers engage with Indigenous populations: to believe and validate Indigenous voices, knowledge, and experiences.

Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical approaches to supporting Indigenous populations in navigating healthcare decisions and combating vaccine hesitancy.

Learn More About Our Guest:
Dr. Jaris Swidrovich is an Assistant Professor, Teaching Stream  at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy at the University of Toronto. He is a queer, Two Spirit, disabled Saulteaux and Ukrainian man and pharmacist from Yellow Quill First Nation. Dr. Swidrovich is the first and only self-identified Indigenous faculty member in pharmacy in Canada.

He received a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy (BSP) from the University of Saskatchewan and a post-baccalaureate Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) from the University of Toronto. His primary areas of research and practice include pain, HIV/AIDS, substance use disorders, 2SLGBTQ+ health, and Indigenous health. Dr. Swidrovich is also a PhD Candidate in Education at the University of Saskatchewan, where he is studying Indigenous Peoples’ experiences with pharmacy education in Canada.

To connect with Jaris, contact him at: jaris.swidrovich@utoronto.ca

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

In this episode of the Resolving Violence Podcast, our guests Dr. Holly Graham and Doreen Waskewitch delve into the transformative work of the  nehiyaw wicihitwin (Cree helping Cree) program, centered on addressing violence and abuse within Indigenous communities. Dr. Graham, an associate professor with extensive experience in Indigenous health and trauma, along with Doreen Waskewitch, a dedicated wellness worker, share insights into the program's development, implementation, and future vision.

The nehiyaw wicihitwin (Cree helping Cree) program, born from the visionary elders of Little Pine and Palmacre communities, emphasizes cultural adaptation as a means to reclaim Indigenous identity and foster safer communities. Through a blend of traditional practices, educational sessions, and community engagement, the program aims to empower youth aged nine to nineteen with positive influences, conflict resolution skills, and a strong sense of identity.

Despite facing challenges such as low parental participation and societal grief, the program continues to make strides in promoting Indigenous cultural practices, restorative justice, and community collaboration. Driven by a commitment to truth, reconciliation, and holistic healing, Nahili Chitwin serves as a beacon of hope for Indigenous communities seeking to overcome historical trauma and build resilient futures. Tune in to learn more about the inspiring journey towards healing and empowerment within Indigenous communities.

Learn More About Our Guest:

Dr. Holly Graham is a member of the Thunderchild First Nation, SK. She has worked as a Registered Nurse (RN) in northern communities and various other health care environments since 1985. Currently, Holly is an Associate Professor in the College of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry at the University of Saskatchewan. She also maintains an active practice as a Registered Doctoral Psychologist, working primarily with individuals who have experienced trauma and symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Doreen Waskewitch is a passionate wellness worker dedicated to supporting the holistic well-being of Indigenous communities. With a profound commitment to cultural revitalization and community empowerment, Doreen brings extensive experience to her role in the nehiyaw wicihitwin (Cree helping Cree) program.

To connect with Holly, contact her at: holly.graham@usask.ca

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

Welcome back to another insightful episode of the Resolving Violence Podcast! Today, we had the immense privilege of sitting down with the brilliant Dr. Lise Milne, Associate Professor at the University of Regina and the powerhouse behind groundbreaking research in child welfare and intimate partner violence.

In this episode, Dr. Milne takes us on a captivating journey through her 15 years of hands-on experience in child welfare practice, coupled with a decade at the prestigious McGill Center for Research on Children and Families. Brace yourselves as we unravel the layers of her current research, touching upon vital topics such as policy responses to intimate partner violence, trauma-informed practices in child-serving organizations, and perinatal prevention programming for trauma-impacted caregivers. 

The heart of our conversation revolves around Dr. Milne's involvement in a pan-Canadian research project, where we explore together the fascinating findings that have significant implications for child protection services and our understanding of intimate partner violence. We also shine a spotlight on the Safe and Together model, an evidence-based framework championing collaboration to enhance outcomes for children and families. 

As our conversation unfolds, you'll gain valuable takeaways on the importance of relationship building, empathy, and curiosity in the realm of child protection and intimate partner violence intervention. This episode is not just a discussion; it's a call to action, an invitation to bridge gaps, and a beacon of hope for transformative change.

Learn More About Our Guest:
Lise Milne is an Associate Professor in the University of Regina Faculty of Social Work (Saskatoon campus) and the Child Trauma Research Centre Research Chair in Intervention and Prevention Approaches Supporting Child and Youth Health and Well-Being (2022-2025). Informed by 15 years of child welfare practice and a decade at the McGill Center for Research on Children and Families, her current research relates to practice and policy responses to intimate partner violence, resilience, and trauma-informed practices in child-serving organizations, perinatal prevention programming for trauma-impacted caregivers, the neurobiological impacts of trauma, and knowledge mobilization.

Dr. Milne is a faculty associate at the Social Policy Research Center and the McGill CRCF, a steering committee and provincial academic representative for research and education for solutions to violence and abuse, and co-chair of the Saskatoon Sexual Assault and Information Center.

To connect with Lise Milne, contact her at: Lise.Milne@uregina.ca

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

In the latest episode of the Resolving Violence podcast, we are joined by historian and PhD candidate, Candice Klein. Join the conversation as we delve into her groundbreaking research, "If My Wife Had Been Home, This Would Never Have Happened: Incest in Saskatchewan, 1901 to 1931."

Through her extensive study, Candice explores the intricate factors contributing to incestuous families and highlights the disturbing pattern of bias in the sentencing of perpetrators based on ethnicity and race.

However, our discussion extends beyond historical research as Candice emphasizes the significance of understanding the intergenerational impact of violence. She also sheds light on how past traumas continue to reverberate in present-day challenges, particularly in Saskatchewan.

Candice Klein's work serves as a stark reminder of the importance of acknowledging the historical context of abuse and the lasting repercussions on individuals and communities. Her dedication to examining these challenging narratives represents the first step toward fostering conversations that can lead to meaningful change and healing. It also contributes to cultivating a more informed and empathetic approach to addressing similar issues in today's context.

Learn More About Our Guest:
Candice Klein (she/her):  Historian and PhD candidate in the Department of History at the University of Saskatchewan. Her research fields include queer, gender, legal, and Indigenous histories in Western Canada. She is committed to social justice issues and engages in various community events, public history lectures, and grassroots volunteer opportunities. She is the 2023 recipient of the Everett Baker Award for Saskatchewan Heritage for her thesis research and her work with the Neil Richards Collection of Gender and Sexual Diversity at the University Archives and Special Collections. Her PhD dissertation, titled "If my wife had been home this would never have happened’: Incest in Saskatchewan 1901 to 1931,” examines the ways that race, ethno-religious identities, gender, and class Influence judicial outcomes in cases of incest.

To connect with Candice Klein, contact her at: cmk572@mail.usask.ca

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

On this episode of the Resolving Violence podcast, our special guest is Carrie Buchanan, Associate Professor and Psychology Department Head at St. Thomas More College.

Carrie leads a research team focused on developing educational programs for preventing gender-based violence on campus. In today's discussion, she shares the challenges encountered when implementing violence prevention training during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing its impact on participant engagement and the necessity for adaptability in program delivery.

We also delve into the effectiveness of violence prevention education programs, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and adaptability to diverse communities. And touch on concerns regarding the mandatory nature of this programming, and the potential for backlash from certain groups.

Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that explores the nuances of violence prevention and the ongoing efforts to empower individuals and communities to intervene and bring about change!

Learn More About Our Guest:
 Dr. Carrie Buchanan is an Associate Professor and head of the department of psychology at St. Thomas More College. Her research focuses on fostering healthy peer relationships and developing educational programs for gender-based violence prevention.

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

In today's episode of the Resolving Violence podcast, we have a special guest with us, Shaylyn White. Shaylyn recently defended their master's thesis, which focuses on the media representation of queer women. In this thought-provoking discussion, Shaylyn delves into the concept of symbolic annihilation and its impact on queer individuals. We explore how the lack of representation and prioritization of different identities in the media can create a sense of invisibility and erasure. 

Symbolic annihilation refers to the absence or marginalization of certain groups in media, creating a sense that they do not exist or lack a unique culture. Queer women, in particular, have long been subject to limited representation, stereotyping, and hypersexualization. This lack of authentic portrayal not only perpetuates harmful stereotypes but also undermines the self-perception and mental well-being of individuals within these communities.

To address the risks associated with stereotyping and negativity, this week's episode emphasizes the urgent need for improved representation of queer women in media. By amplifying diverse voices and experiences, media can play a vital role in reshaping social norms and fostering a more inclusive society. Additionally, service providers are encouraged to prioritize inclusivity in their practices by explicitly naming and prioritizing different identities.

Learn More About Our Guest:
Shaylyn White (she/they) is a graduate of the University of Saskatchewan’s Women’s and Gender Studies Master’s program. Shaylyn's research is informed by queer and critical theory and explores the different ways that gender and sexuality shape everyday experiences. Shaylyn is currently employed as a network catalyst for STOPS to Violence and as a research clerical assistant for RESOLVE SK.

To connect with our guest, contact Shaylyn at srw873@usask.ca.

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

This week's episode of the Resolving Violence podcast, we dive into the discussion surrounding the Ontario Domestic Assault Risk Assessment (ODARA). We welcome guest expert , Jennifer Hegel who sheds light on the importance of understanding and addressing the factors influencing violence.

The ODARA consists of thirteen items that help assess the risk of domestic assault, including the history of violence, breach of release orders, presence of threats or unlawful confinement, and barriers towards support.

The results from the research project conducted in Northern Saskatchewan indicated higher recidivism rates among the participants, revealing the urgent need for effective risk assessment tools tailored to the circumstances of Indigenous offenders.

Ultimately, the episode underscores the significance of understanding the historical, cultural, and social context in order to effectively address violence and contribute to a safer society. By disseminating knowledge and promoting evidence-based practices, Resolving Violence seeks to empower service providers and the general public to work together towards resolving violence.

Learn More About Our Guest:
Jennifer Hegel (she/her) received her BA Honours in Psychology with a minor in Crime, Law and Justice Studies from the University of Saskatchewan in 2020. She has 10+ years’ work experience supporting both municipal and federal law enforcement, which has inspired her research interests in interpersonal violence and adolescent dating violence, particularly among Indigenous populations.

To connect with Jennifer Hegel, contact her at jenhegel@gmail.com.

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/