| Using a socially accountable participatory research methodology, this thesis examines the needs of Aboriginal people living with AIDS and HIV (PLWA/HIV) in Canada, and the vulnerability of communities to infection as articulated by PLWA/HIV and Aboriginal AIDS organisations involved in education, awareness and prevention programs and the provision of services and support. The problem is placed in the socio-geographical context of Aboriginal communities, which it is argued, affects the demand for, and the pattern of demand for services and support. At the same time it highlights differences in the needs of people and communities living on and off reserve.;The results identify common themes of concern which include: the need for education--for acceptance as well as prevention: income; housing; nutrition and medical treatments; appropriate service delivery; and funding. Overall participants enunciated a need for a holistic approach to education and health which can address the factors influencing risk to communities and the lives of PLWA/HIV and which emphasises the importance of traditional values and the healing process that is taking place in communities today, as well as a need for communities and PLWA/HIV to be in control of the development of programs for effective culturally relevant and community sensitive education and service provision. |
