XOSECRET

Land Acknowledgement

We would like to take a moment to acknowledge the land on which we gather for performance. SummerWorks takes place on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishinaabe, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat Nations. We honor and respect the many diverse Indigenous peoples connected to this land on which we gather.

About Us:
We come from Nova Scotia, a place known as Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people. Our project, AWAKE AND STILL DROWNING, is deeply rooted in the land and explores the impact of climate change on coastal communities, a theme profoundly relevant to the Indigenous peoples who have been the caretakers of these lands for millennia.

Why This Acknowledgment is Important:
Acknowledging the land is important to us because it honors the original caretakers of the places where we live and work. It reminds us of the rich history and enduring presence of Indigenous communities. It also aligns with our commitment to environmental stewardship, a principle that has been a cornerstone of Indigenous cultures for generations.

Actions and Commitments:
In our work, we strive to raise awareness about the environmental challenges faced by all coastal communities, including Indigenous ones. We encourage our audience to educate themselves on the history and ongoing contributions of Indigenous peoples in their communities. Taking action can include supporting Indigenous-led environmental initiatives, engaging with local Indigenous communities respectfully, and advocating for policies that protect Indigenous lands and waters.

We thank the Indigenous communities for their resilience and stewardship, and we are committed to learning from their knowledge and traditions as we address the urgent issue of climate change.

Information about the Indigenous Peoples of the Land

The Mississaugas of the Credit: The Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation are part of the Anishinaabe people. Their traditional territory extends along the northern shores of Lake Ontario. They have a rich cultural history and continue to play a vital role in the stewardship of their lands.

The Anishinaabe: The Anishinaabe peoples include the Odawa, Ojibwe, and Algonquin nations. They are known for their deep spiritual connection to the land and water, practicing sustainable living and environmental stewardship.

The Haudenosaunee: Also known as the Iroquois Confederacy, the Haudenosaunee is a political union of six nations: Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca, and Tuscarora. They have a long history of governance and diplomacy and have traditionally inhabited lands across Ontario, Quebec, and New York.

The Wendat (Huron) Nations: The Wendat, or Huron, are originally from the Georgian Bay area of Ontario. Known for their strong agricultural practices and vibrant culture, they played a significant role in trade and alliances in the region.

Educational Resources and Links

General Information:

• Indigenous Peoples Atlas of Canada

• Native Land Digital

• National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation

Courses and Workshops:

• University of Alberta: Indigenous Canada

• KAIROS Blanket Exercise

Organizations:

• Assembly of First Nations

• Métis Nation of Ontario

• Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami

Actions and Ways to Support Indigenous Communities

Support Indigenous Businesses:

• Purchase from Indigenous-owned businesses and artisans.

• Explore platforms like Shop First Nations.

Advocate for Indigenous Rights:

• Educate yourself about Indigenous rights and sovereignty.

• Support policies and initiatives that protect Indigenous lands and cultures.

Donate to Indigenous Causes:

• Indspire - Supporting Indigenous education.

• First Nations Child & Family Caring Society

Participate in Events and Movements:

• Attend Indigenous cultural events and ceremonies if open to the public.

• Participate in National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21st.

Learn and Share Knowledge:

• Read books by Indigenous authors.

• Follow Indigenous voices on social media and share their content.

Further Reading on Environmental Stewardship

Books:

• Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer

• The Right to Be Cold by Sheila Watt-Cloutier

• The Reconciliation Manifesto by Arthur Manuel and Grand Chief Ronald Derrickson

Articles:

• “Indigenous Environmental Network”

• “Decolonizing Environmentalism”

Organizations:

• Indigenous Climate Action

• Mother Earth Water Walk

By engaging with these resources and taking actionable steps, we can all contribute to supporting Indigenous communities and environmental stewardship.