Indigenous worldviews are fundamentally different from the Western/settler perspectives. Rather than seeing humans as the dominant force at the top of a pyramid, Indigenous peoples view themselves as an integral part of the entire ecosystem. Every living being, from plants to animals, and even the land itself, has a vital role and importance in maintaining the delicate balance of the natural world. This interconnectedness means that humans must rethink their relationship with nature and how they occupy space within it to promote harmony and sustainability. By acknowledging peoples’ place as part of the ecosystem, Indigenous spirituality emphasizes the responsibility to coexist in balance with all life forms, fostering a deeper connection to the land and a profound respect for the environment. Moreover, this understanding of respect and reciprocity in maintaining relations transcends beyond the land.
Understanding that we are all in different spots in our collective learning journey. This location is a place for documents we believe will be useful further down the road or in your personal and professional development. The information shared in this space is to help you grow – it is not a part of the module requirements.
Connection to the Land
Glossary for Anishinaabemowin in Gerties Creek Story
From: Complied by 4Directions
From: Isaac Day-Murdoch
From: Harry S. LaForme (Canada’s First Indigenous appellate judge)
From: Biodiversity BC
Indigenous World Views
Kijiikwewin aji:sweetgrass stories with traditional Indigenous women in Northern Ontario (via SciSpace)
From: the International Journal of Indigenous Health
That land means everything to us as Anishinaabe…. Environmental dispossession and resilience on the North Shore of Lake Superior (via researchgate.net)
From: Health and Place
The Experience Of Indigenous Academics In Social Work Programs: Engaging Indigenous Identity And Experience (downloadable from the site)
From: Metropolitan University (Major Research Project Thesis)
Davidson-Hunt, I. J. (2003). Indigenous lands management, cultural landscapes and Anishinaabe people of Shoal Lake, Northwestern Ontario, Canada. Environments, 31(1), 21-42.