The Indigenous Buffalo Research Network project is the development of a collaborative research network conducted by Indigenous Researchers for Indigenous communities and Buffalo Treaty signatories. The goal is the creation of Indigenous research partnerships with the Buffalo Treaty nations, NGOs, tribal colleges, and grassroots community in order to support the rematriation of the buffalo, as well as creating buffalo consciousness amongst Indigenous communities through high profile and impactful projects.

Underpinning the research projects will be the Buffalo Treaty. The Treaty reminds us as Indigenous peoples that the “Buffalo is part of us and we are part of the buffalo, culturally, materially and spiritually. Our ongoing relationship is so close and so embodied in us that buffalo is the essence of our holistic eco-cultural life-ways” (buffalotreaty.com).

A central tenet for the project will be an emphasis on Indigenous research that is led by, written by and done in support of Indigenous communities.