Effective, multiple-level FASD prevention approaches for AI/ANs may include prioritizing Indigenous culture, supporting intergenerational cohesion, focusing on non-stigmatic healing of traumas, and authentically engaging community knowledge. This work draws on community and cultural strengths in an effort to reduce the occurrence of substance-exposed pregnancies, and encourages transformational changes in systems that serve AI/AN peoples to promote a healthy and thriving community and future generations.
In 2011, representatives from the Multnomah County Health Departments and several Native-serving organizations came together to address substance-exposed pregnancies among urban Native Americans in Portland, Oregon. From these partnerships, the Future Generations Collaborative was formed representing a significant shift toward community-led maternal child health research and planning. Additionally, the Future Generations Collaborative adopted a historical trauma-informed community based participatory research and planning process. This is particularly significant considering government agencies' role in colonization within Native communities. The purpose of this case study is to explore partnerships between government agencies and the Portland Native community within the Future Generations Collaborative. Given the profound influence of historical trauma in Native communities, this paper addresses how the partnerships between government agencies and the Portland Native community pose distinct opportunities, challenges, and implications.
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