Research

At The Blacksmith Institute, our research is rooted in cultural preservation — not of systems or institutions, but of lived experience, generational truth, and traditional knowledge as told by the people. We engage in scholarly work that contributes to a growing body of research centering Indigenous and historically marginalized communities, while ensuring that what is gathered remains accessible to those it represents.

Previous Research Projects

Blacksmith, V. (2025). Integrating traditional and Western healing practices for American Indian patients. In Dissertation Abstracts International: Section B: The Sciences and Engineering (Vol. 86, Issue 6–B).

View Abstract or Download

Current Research Projects

“Generational Echoes: Oral Histories of Cultural Preservation Among Urban Native Families Post-Relocation”

Generational Echoes Flyer

We are conducting a research study focused on the long-term impacts of the Indian Relocation Act. The study seeks to document and honor the experiences of Native families who relocated from tribal lands to urban areas during the 1950s–1970s, and to understand how those experiences have shaped the lives of both the individuals who relocated and the generations that followed.

We are currently recruiting Native families with three or more generations, including:
- One family member who relocated from tribal land during the Indian Relocation Act era,
- Along with their descendants or relatives (such as children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, etc.).

Participation involves a single recorded interview (about 60–90 minutes) and may also include an optional shared reflection session with other family members. Interviews may take place in person or virtually, based on preference and availability.

This research is being led by Dr. Victoria Blacksmith and reviewed by an independent review board.

If you are interested in learning more about this project, or participating, please fill out the form below to get into contact with us. Thank you!

Participate in Generational Echoes

If your family was impacted by the Indian Relocation Act, we invite you to get in touch. Use the box below to share a brief introduction and your contact information, and our team will follow up with you about participating in the project.

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🔒 Your information will be kept private and only used for the purpose of this research project. By submitting, you are expressing interest in being contacted by The Blacksmith Institute LLC regarding participation in Generational Echoes.