Erica (Samms) Hurley, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Nursing

What are you currently working on/what is your current research focus?

My research focus is Indigenous research/health. Most recently I have been involved with a research proposal with Transforming Climate Action called "Rethinking Transformation: Centering Msit No’kmaq for Just and Equitable Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation."

The proposal in which myself and other colleagues are working on proposes an examination of a Indigenous focused model that has the potential to shift the lens from rushing to solutions to re-examining community relationships. These relationships include those not only between individuals but also to lands and waters, in the context of a changing climate, so that just, equitable, and sustainable solutions can be imagined, co-developed with communities and advanced.

 

When and why did you first feel inspired to work in this area?

As a Mi'kmaq woman, I have always had a relationship and responsibility to the waters. However, most recently my PhD research exposed the connection and meaning that Mi'kmaw women have in relation to heart and water. Therefore, the continued work towards actively engaging in protecting, improving and supporting the waters is important to me and all aspects of who I am.

 

Can you share a memory with us of an interesting day in your recent work/research life?

Recently I was involved in a workshop to discuss greenhouse gas emissions and work with costal/rural communities. Myself and Christina Smeaton worked to include Indigenous community and knowledge within the workshop, offering reflective moments while envisioning future research work with the participants. During this event we had participants join me at the water to share and pay respect for the water.

 

What makes Memorial particularly suited for your work?

As a Mi'kmaq Assistant Professor who is engaged in community, I was part of the recent cluster hire. I can engage in community work which interconnects with all aspects of the Memorial position: teaching, research and service. Futhermore, MUN also supports engagement initatives.

 

What is something you’d like for people to know about the ocean or the north (or your more specific focus area)?

Water is life. The ocean is life. Without respecting and valuing it as a life source, a relational aspect of who we are as human beings then the health of it will unfortunately continue to be out of balance/unwell.

 

Read more here: https://gazette.mun.ca/research/a-hearts-journey/