Urban Indigenous Housing in British Columbia
This project builds on findings from a recent four-month study conducted by Breton and Low (applicants) in partnership with the Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA).
Municipal responses through housing policy and plans
This project builds on findings from a recent four-month study conducted by Breton and Low (applicants) in partnership with the Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA). The study examined municipal responses to urban Indigenous housing needs within Official Community Plans (OCP) and Housing Strategies, finding that although there is a desire to engage in reconciliation efforts, most municipalities do not address urban Indigenous housing needs with their OCP or Housing Strategy. The study also identified three significant challenges for municipalities in addressing urban Indigenous housing needs: 1) lack of financial and human resources, 2) ambiguity over whether Indigenous housing needs are distinct, and 3) uncertainty around the role and jurisdiction of municipal governments. The study sample included 30 municipalities within BC and data was collected from a content analysis of municipal documents, surveys and interviews with municipal planning staff who had experience or in-depth knowledge of the processes undertaken to create their municipality’s OCP or Housing Strategy.
Project Lead(s):
Home Organization:
University of British Columbia
Other Participants:
Penny Gurstein, Cleo Breton
Community Partner:
Aboriginal Housing Management Association
Funding Stream:
Community-Focused Project
Project Status:
Ongoing
Background
While there is extensive literature regarding Indigenous housing on-reserve and an increasing body of research examining urban Indigenous housing experiences1, an analysis of municipalities’ response to urban Indigenous housing needs in BC through policies and plans remains elusive. Building on the recent findings with additional survey and interview data, an academic paper will expand the depth of the research and address the gap within current literature. Our intent is to submit a manuscript to one of the following journals: Canadian Journal of Urban Research, Environment and Planning D: Society and Space, or Housing Studies.
Research Outputs
Nothing here yet! Get latest updates on our newest research outputs and events by signing up to our newsletter or following us on social media.
Alert the presses!
This project hasn’t hit the news yet.