“Reframing the Way You Think and Work”: Indigenous Youth Workers Converse about Ethical Responsibility

Authors

  • Natasha Blanchet-Cohen Concordia University
  • Carole Bérubé-Therrien Concordia University
  • Véronique Picard Concordia University
  • Christine Qillasiq Lussier Concordia University
  • Kawennaroroks Montour Kahnawà:ke Shakotiia'takehnhas Community Services
  • Juliet Rabbitskin Concordia University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/jcycw.2025.475

Abstract

This commentary brings together young Indigenous professionals working with youth in communities across Quebec to reflect on the significance of providing culturally sensitive and decolonizing services as outlined in the revised Standards for practice of North American Child and Youth Care Professionals. We discuss ethical responsibility as involving relationality, active listening, and engaging with youth in a myriad of ways that are culturally relevant, while advocating for systemic change. This process involves Indigenous youth workers navigating unique ethical challenges, such as balancing cultural sensitivity with intervention practices, building trust within communities affected by historical trauma, and managing the distinctive demands of confidentiality. The drawing of a heart surrounded by ripples illustrates the many layers of intervention, relationships, and cultural care that are central to an Indigenous youth worker’s role. Advice for future youth workers who want to work ethically and in a “good way” with Indigenous youth involves being open, to demonstrating genuine commitment, and both being challenged by and challenging a system that has historically failed to support Indigenous young people and their ways of being.

References

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Published

2025-10-22

How to Cite

Blanchet-Cohen, N., Bérubé-Therrien, C., Picard, V., Lussier, C. Q., Montour, K., & Rabbitskin, J. (2025). “Reframing the Way You Think and Work”: Indigenous Youth Workers Converse about Ethical Responsibility. Journal of Child and Youth Care Work, 31. https://doi.org/10.5195/jcycw.2025.475

Issue

Vol. 31 (2025): Special Ethics Edition

Section

Special Features

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Copyright (c) 2025 Natasha Blanchet-Cohen, Carole Bérubé-Therrien, Véronique Picard, Christine Qillasiq Lussier, Kawennaroroks Montour, Juliet Rabbitskin

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