Hugh Shewell

Hugh Shewell is a Professor at Carleton University's School of Social Work within the Faculty of Public Affairs. He holds advanced degrees: B.A. (Carleton), M.S.W. (UBC), and PhD (Toronto). His roles include Associate Dean (Academic), former Director of the School of Social Work (2009–2014), and leader of initiatives like the Carleton University Institute on Ethics for Research with Indigenous Peoples.

His research focuses on Indigenous-State relations, colonial social policy, and historical analyses of Canadian social welfare systems. Key themes include First Nations autonomy, poverty ideology, and the intersection of social rights with democratic governance. Shewell’s work critically examines how colonial structures persist in modern policies and welfare frameworks.

Recent publications emphasize Indigenous self-determination, neoliberalism’s impact on social work, and historical case studies of Canadian Indian policy. His 2004 book ‘Enough to Keep Them Alive’ is a seminal work on colonial welfare systems. Presentations span academic conferences in Canada, the US, and Europe, addressing topics like Edwardian social reform and decolonization.

Shewell’s teaching includes courses on structural analysis of social welfare, policy administration, and community work. He actively engages in interdisciplinary dialogue through collaborative book projects and international lectures.