Surfacing secrets - Episode 3 - Indigenous Knowledge Empowering Ocean Science

This special episode is released for Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. A moment to listen, learn, and recognize the strength of Indigenous knowledge—and the partnerships that bring science and tradition together. At Ocean Networks Canada (ONC), partnership with Indigenous communities is more than a project requirement — it’s a way of working. ONC supports community-led monitoring, shares technology and training, and works alongside Elders, youth, and knowledge holders to weave Indigenous knowledge and ocean science together. These collaborations help shape research, strengthen resilience, and ensure communities benefit first from the data collected in their territories. One milestone in this journey was OceanObs’19 in Hawaii, where ONC helped bring Indigenous voices to the international stage. For the first time, Indigenous knowledge was presented as a formal part of the global ocean observing framework — changing the conversation about how science and traditional knowledge can work hand in hand. In this episode, Lyne Morissette speaks with: Ken Paul – Mi’kmaq leader and advocate for Indigenous rights in ocean governance Pieter Romer – Indigenous Community Liaison at ONC, storyteller, and documentary filmmaker Maia Hoeberechts – Associate Director of Learning & Engagement at ONC Together, they explore how Indigenous knowledge and Western science meet on the water: Building trust and partnerships that last Stories passed down through generations as “data” in their own right Youth stepping onto research vessels and carrying both heritage and science forward Facing challenges like climate change and fisheries with two knowledge systems, side by side