Allan Downey named Canada Research Chair

Allan Downey, associate professor jointly appointed between Indigneous Studies and the Department of History (Faculty of Humanities), has been named the Canada Research Chair in Indigenous History, Self-Determination and Nationhood (Tier 2).

Downey, who is the author of 2018’s The Creator’s Game: Lacrosse, Identity, and Indigenous Nationhood, has focused his most recent research on the history of Haudenosaunee ironworkers and their roles in building New York City, directing an award-winning short film on the subject in 2020. He is also deeply involved in a wide range of activities working with youth in Indigenous communities.

“I am humbled to receive this honour, and it means a great deal to me to see community-based Indigenous research recognized this way,” says Downey, who is Dakelh from Nak’azdli Whut’en, Lusilyoo Clan.

“I am so fortunate to work with several brilliant Indigenous Elders, scholars and knowledge holders and this Canada Research Chair will help bring them together with Indigenous youth to create new and exciting projects of resurgent Indigenous histories.”