Indigenous Knowledge and Culture Specialist
Indigenous Knowledge and Culture Specialist
The Indigenous Knowledge and Culture Specialist is dedicated to presenting a balanced account of Dufferin history by showcasing Indigenous history, art, and cultures from authentic Indigenous perspectives. This role involves researching and interpreting the museum’s collection of Indigenous artefacts, assisting in the curation of a new permanent exhibition for the Main Gallery and exterior grounds, and collaborating with the Programming Department to integrate Indigenous knowledge into educational and outreach programming. The Specialist will engage with Indigenous communities and museum staff to address the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action related to education and lead efforts to promote a culture of inclusion.
The County of Dufferin is committed to equity, reconciliation, and the meaningful inclusion of Indigenous peoples in our workforce. We encourage applications from qualified Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, or Inuit) candidates. Preference will be given to Indigenous candidates as part of a special program established under Section 14 of the Ontario Human Rights Code. Applicants who wish to be considered for Indigenous preference are asked to complete a voluntary self-identification survey and, if selected for the role, to provide documentation confirming their Indigenous identity. Verification of Indigenous identity and consent to retain a confidential record of verification is required to receive preference in the hiring process. This position is funded through the Museum Assistance Program – Indigenous Heritage Stream, this role requires lived experience, cultural knowledge, and community connection to support the preservation, revitalization, and sharing of Indigenous heritage. The candidate should thrive in collaborative environments, actively engaging with donors, scholars, and external communities, and welcoming interactions with diverse audiences. This role will ensure that the interpretation of the Indigenous collection and the history of Indigenous peoples in Dufferin County reflects multiple voices and inclusive narratives.
What you’ll do
- Works collaboratively with the Curatorial team to review and update catalogue records for objects with Indigenous heritage and recommend appropriate storage methods, handling practices, and uses
- Makes Indigenous heritage available through publishing finished catalogue records on the digital collections database
- Assume a key role in the program of repatriation of objects of cultural patrimony and sacred items
- In collaboration with other employees, provides an Indigenous lens to the development of exhibitions, where applicable
- Research and writing of text panels and labels related to Indigenous history and culture
- Engaging with Elders and other stakeholders to present the history of Indigenous peoples in Dufferin County from an Indigenous perspective
- Using the permanent exhibition, work with the program department to create a tour script that addresses Indigenous history in Dufferin
- Facilitates active engagement with Indigenous communities and organizations to assess needs and opportunities for partnership and collaboration.
- Develops and maintains meaningful, trust-based and ongoing relationships with Indigenous organizations and communities.
- Maintains visibility and availability among Indigenous communities
- Assists in the development and implementation of internal capacity building in support of Truth and Reconciliation
- Assists the Museum Services Manager to identify any possible funding and grant opportunities for further projects involving Indigenous heritage and culture
- Certificate or diploma in Reconciliation Studies, Indigenous Studies, Archaeology, Anthropology, History, Aboriginal Canada Relations, Indigenous Perspectives Designation, or related field
- At least 3 years of experience engaging and building relationships with Indigenous communities, Indigenous organizations, and First Nations.
- Project coordination experience, including planning, development, implementation and evaluation.
- Ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of people, including people with lived and living experience.
- Experience in document preparation, research and project reporting
- Ability to engage in active processes that aim to identify and eliminate anti-Indigenous racism and colonial practices and structures and work in partnership to help change systems, organizational structures, policies, practices and attitudes
- Demonstrated understanding of the complexities involved in cultural heritage collections and exhibitions
- Experience writing for a public audience
- Ability to conduct research using primary and secondary sources
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
- Knowledge of the history of Indigenous Peoples in Ontario
- Valid Class G driver’s license and access to reliable transportation required
- Valid criminal record check including the vulnerable sector screening is required