Dr. Susanne Thiessen: Indigenous Economics Research Cluster
July 24, 2026
School of Public Administration Assistant Professor Susanne Thiessen, Donn Feir (UVic Economics), and Rebecca Johnson (UVic Law) formed the Indigenous Economics Research Cluster as a multidisciplinary and community-engaged space for studying, supporting, and renewing Indigenous economies.
The cluster connects academic research with community knowledge and priorities, while developing relationships, research tools, workshops, reports, and funding proposals that can support Indigenous-led economic development.
In Susanne's words:
“Indigenous economies are not simply alternatives to mainstream economic models; they embody distinct legal orders, governance structures, reciprocal relationships with land, and responsibilities to future generations."