Grounding Principles
At CPN-PREV, our shared learning and engagement are guided by six grounding principles.
Rooted in Indigenous methodologies, these principles center ethical responsibility, relationality, and mutual respect. They are not hierarchical or linear, but hold equal importance and are deeply interconnected, shaping how we show up, listen, and contribute together. Each principle offers a lens for holding space with care, intention, and integrity.Discover them below !
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Positioning
We understand that knowledge is never neutral as it is shaped by identity, lived experiences, and relationships to land, community, and history.
Indigenous research encourages ongoing reflection on positionality, including how ancestry, privilege, and power shape how we understand and engage with knowledge. This practice supports accountability, relationality, and humility, ensuring research is grounded in respect for Indigenous perspectives and contributes to community well-being rather than extractive or colonial approaches.
Relationship
At the heart of Indigenous methodologies is the understanding that knowledge is relational.
We prioritize building and sustaining meaningful relationships in all aspects of our work, grounded in trust, mutual respect, and an awareness of the interconnectedness between individuals, communities, and the land.
Dignity
We are committed to upholding the dignity of all individuals by recognizing and valuing diverse experiences, perspectives, and knowledge systems.
We foster an environment where people feel safe, respected, and empowered to share their truths without judgment.
Do no harm
We are committed to ensuring that our actions and discussions do not cause harm to individuals or their communities.
This means being mindful of power dynamics and engaging with care and sensitivity. We hold space for individual expression within a shared, inclusive environment where all voices - especially those less often heard- are valued. Participation is guided not by the loudest voices, but by respectful dialogue, active listening, and mutual learning.
We actively foster openness and equity, ensuring diverse perspectives are included and no single voice dominates.
Reciprocity
Engagement is a two-way process of giving and receiving.
We value each person’s contributions and ensure that shared knowledge is acknowledged and benefits all involved. Reciprocity means learning from one another, honoring collectivity, and working together toward shared goals.
Listening
We value knowledge and experience sharing, which begins with attentive listening.
We approach listening with humility and openness, recognizing it as essential to meaningful dialogue. We prioritize voices with lived experience and honor the wisdom shared, engaging with respect and care, without distortion or manipulation.