« All Events

  • This event has passed.

AutismBC Talks: Acâhk Pimatisiwin – Reclaiming Indigenous Understandings of Neurodivergence with Grant Bruno

May 16, 2025 @ 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Free

Join AutismBC as we continue our learning after Autism Acceptance Month with an essential conversation centered around Indigenous perspectives on neurodivergence.  

We are honoured to host Dr. Grant Bruno, a proud nêhiyaw (Plains Cree) scholar, parent, and Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Alberta. In this session, Dr. Bruno will share his lived experience and research, illuminating the often-overlooked presence of Indigenous peoples in discussions surrounding autism and neurodivergence. 

This AutismBC Talk will highlight the importance of integrating Indigenous worldviews, traditional knowledge, and relational ways of being into autism support systems. Dr. Bruno will discuss how Indigenous families navigate both Western medical frameworks and their cultural traditions, offering valuable insights on building inclusive, culturally responsive, and healing-centered approaches for Indigenous autistic children and their families. 

Why This Talk Matters: 

  • Indigenous voices are often marginalized in conversations about autism and neurodivergence. This Talk provides a platform to amplify voices and foster understanding
  • Indigenous families often face systemic barriers in accessing autism services that align with their cultural values. Dr. Bruno’s work bridges these gaps by exploring wholistic, culturally grounded supports
  • Service providers, educators, and caregivers will gain actionable strategies for creating more inclusive and responsive environments for Indigenous autistic individuals

Key Learnings & Takeaways: 

  • An introduction to nêhiyaw (Cree) perspectives on neurodivergence and autism 
  • Understanding the impact of colonialism on autism research and service accessibility for Indigenous families 
  • Exploring community-driven autism research and qualitative methodologies that prioritize Indigenous knowledge systems 
  • Practical guidance on integrating Indigenous ways of knowing into autism support programs and services 
  • Strategies for fostering culturally safe spaces for Indigenous autistic individuals and their families 

Event Details

What: 

  • A 50-minute seminar on neurodivergence, Cree understandings of autism, community-driven autism research, and qualitative research methodologies, followed by a 10-minute Q&A session 
  • For session-related inquiries or to submit your questions in advance, please email us at [email protected] 
  • Due to time constraints, only selected questions will be addressed during the Talk session. 
  • Note: Live event, will not be recorded for external sharing. 

When: 

  • Friday, May 16, 2025, from 12-1 PM PT

Where:

  • Online via Zoom 

Who: 

  • This free online event is open to all who are interested in learning more about Indigenous perspectives on autism and neurodivergence.
    • Space is limited to 300 participants, so we encourage early registration.
  •  

Registration Details: 

  • Click “Register” below to get your tickets. 
  • You will receive tickets and event reminders through Eventbrite. 
  • If you have questions you would like addressed in the Talk, please email us at [email protected] 

 

Registration Closed.

 

Speaker Bio:

A portrait photo of Grant Bruno, an Indigenous expert on neurodivergence. Grant is smiling, wearing a brown collared shirt, and looking at the camera.
A portrait photo of Grant Bruno, an Indigenous expert on neurodivergence. Grant is smiling, wearing a brown collared shirt, and looking at the camera.

Dr. Grant Bruno is nêhiyaw (Plains Cree), a registered member of Samson Cree Nation, and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Alberta. His research focuses on culturally responsive healthcare models that support Indigenous children and youth, particularly in the areas of neurodivergence and child and youth health. Dr. Bruno is the Academic Lead for Indigenous Child Health at the Women and Children’s Health Research Institute (WCHRI) and the founder of the Ispimihk Awâsisak (Sky Children Program) and the Indigenous Caregiving Collective. His work weaves nêhiyaw knowledge systems with Western frameworks to create inclusive, decolonized approaches to healthcare. 

Additional Resources:

AutismBC Talks are online presentations that provide valuable learnings related to autism and the community. Whether you want to expand your knowledge, explore new topics, or gain a deeper understanding, this is the perfect place to start.

 

Let’s Connect:

Our programs are designed to support, empower, and connect the autism community! Not yet an AutismBC Member? Sign up for a membership.
Questions? Please contact us.

Details

Venue