This paper describes the background and evolution of a Code of Research Ethics that was developed for a primary diabetes prevention project in the Native Mohawk community of Kahnawake in Canada. Embodying the principles of participatory research, this code was written by the researchers in conjunction with the community in the first year of the three-year project. The code ensures that the community is a full partner for the entire research process. For this project a Community Advisory Board is representative of the community.