“Science and advocacy are crucially, while delicately, interconnected. While the creation of scientific knowledge should be as ‘objective’ and as free as possible from pre-conceived assumptions, scientific knowledge is mostly esoteric and of little utilitarian value if not put to effective use and action. Especially in politically or ethically contested areas, or concerning the interests of marginalized populations/interests and essential values like social justice, the consideration and application of scientific knowledge ought to be advanced and promoted by appropriate means — as otherwise it is likely to be neglected or dismissed. This is an essential part of the role of those involved in the generation of ‘science.’”

“For Indigenous Peoples, research must be based in advocacy, or rather empowerment and benefit, as research has historically, and often currently, been used to harm Indigenous Peoples both individually, as groups or systemically. To be helpful in the way western notions of advocacy intend, research must be based in Indigenous values and principles; otherwise it is harmful because using western (non-Indigenous) approaches to research with Indigenous peoples is a form of continued colonization and perpetuates original and intergenerational traumas.”

“It’s important for us to distinguish the actuality of the application of research from the ideals. Research is an important part of a broader exploration and discussion about the search for truth, meaning, purpose and knowledge. It has historically been flawed, limited and/or a mechanism for advocacy. This is not inherently problematic and only becomes so when we look for it to be the sole provider of information and evidence. In many ways, research can be a powerful tool for advocacy as it pushes us to further our curiosity and dive more deeply into unexplored topics and areas of need. The ethical obligation can be found in the transparency, authenticity and clarity about the funding, sources, biases and intentions of the research. Ultimately, I don’t believe research advocacy and research ethics to be dichotomous or unilateral — the importance lies in our approach.”

“Advocacy is the tool we use to invite systems and structures to see things differently. When grounded in action, it becomes more than a voice; it becomes a mechanism for change. In today’s health care research landscape, advocacy is not optional; it is necessary. It challenges outdated models, centres community experience, and calls for evidence that reflects real-world perspectives, not just system priorities. Community members rarely shape the questions being asked, while many researchers themselves have lived and living experience, yet still work in systems that don’t fully value that knowledge. Advocacy brings relevance and dignity back into focus, reshaping what is studied, who is valued and how health is understood.”