Indigenous Insights
A syndicated study of Indigenous opinion in Canada.
A study grounded in respect.
We approach this work with humility, respect, and a lasting commitment to the highest standards of research excellence. We recognize that research involving Indigenous peoples in Canada carries a distinct responsibility — one shaped by a legacy in which research was too often used as a tool of imperialism, with consequences that persist to this day.
The relationship between researcher and respondent is important in any study, but it holds particular weight in this context. Past harms — including unethical conduct by researchers — have contributed to a strained relationship between research institutions and Indigenous communities.
At Earnscliffe, we are deeply mindful of this history. We view our work as part of an ongoing process of learning, improvement, and accountability. As part of this, we regularly seek cultural guidance from a range of Indigenous stakeholders and work with Indigenous suppliers in the execution of this study.
We also benefit from in-house expertise. Our team includes Allan Gregg, who worked closely with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, as well as with several organizations advocating for Indigenous rights and justice.
Includes First Nations (both on- and off-reserve), Métis, and Inuit respondents
Conducted quarterly, surveying 500 Indigenous respondents every 90 days
Nationally representative sample based on the 2021 Census
Quotas set by gender, age, and geographic region
INDIGENOUS INSIGHTS
Study design
Study composition
Each wave has a sample of 500 respondents, statistically representative of the Indigenous population of Canada based off the 2021 StatsCan numbers. The sample includes First Nations both on- and off-reserve, Métis, and Inuit respondents.
Remote community participation
All communities and people are reflected in our sample. While the exact number will vary by wave, the percentage of remote respondents from rural or remote communities averages around 11-12%. This includes respondents both living on- and off-reserve.
Indigenous involvement in the study
We engage with a range of Indigenous partners and stakeholders to guide our work and ensure it reflects diverse perspectives. We also work with Indigenous Link, an Indigenous-owned supplier, to support participant recruitment for the study.
Historical data
New clients will receive access to the core tracking data surrounding perceptions of governments and advocacy groups; top issues facing Canada and Indigenous peoples; and future outlooks. Access to non-tracking data is negotiated on a case-by-case basis.
First Nations principles of OCAP
From the beginning, we’ve been deeply committed to ensuring our work is grounded in respect for the unique cultures, histories, and experiences of Indigenous peoples. In our case, data at the individual community level is not only too limited to be useful, but also raises concerns around privacy and confidentiality. For this reason, we do not report or share community-level data.
Data use
Clients use the data to inform their Indigenous engagement strategies, to understand their brand health and equity among Indigenous peoples, as well as for regulatory and government relations purposes.
Research across critical topics
In-depth studies across a range of topics
- Reconciliation
- Major infrastructure projects
- Self-governance and nation building
- The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and Reconcliation
- Housing
- Cost of living
- Indigenous economic prosperity
- Perceptions of corporate Canada
Ready for the right insights?
If you’d like to explore our full archive or propose a topic for future research, we’d be happy to connect.
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