Assignment -2_Group 11

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Vasu Sutariya Christine Nguyen Assignment #2 – Indigenous Culture Reflection 1. Summary of your (team) perspective on indigenous culture and issues they have confronted since colonization. Indigenous and Aboriginal peoples of Canada, also known as First Nation, are a varied group with their own history, languages, customs, and religious beliefs (Zach, 2007) Their culture is a traditional knowledge system and has a special relationship to the land. Indigenous people maintain that they are entitled to the places they were living in and have the right to use the land for customary purposes such as fishing, hunting and other activities (Susan,n.d). However, Indigenous people have experienced several injustices since European colonists arrived. They were forced to give up on their lands and resources when the settlers claimed control over the area. Canada's Indigenous peoples not only suffered severe and permanent from colonization but also had their culture stolen. An array of laws and customs were applied to indigenous peoples in an effort to control their territory and resources and integrate them into European-Canadian society. The residential school system was one of them; it caused Indigenous children to be cut apart from their families and communities and lose their identity, language, and culture. (Miller, 2012). Together with being compelled to give up their lands through treaties and other legal mechanisms, Indigenous peoples also faced laws and policies that curtailed their freedom of religion, movement, and culture. Moreover, Indigenous peoples were frequently the targets of abuse and exploitation by settlers and government agents, and illnesses brought by the colonization of Canada also killed out large portions of the Indigenous population. 2. Discuss the impact of colonization on their culture and way of living. Provide examples. (include citations to support your answer).

Loss of Land and Disconnection from the Environment: Colonization led to Indigenous peoples being forcibly removed from their ancestral lands, disrupting their deep spiritual, cultural, and physical connections to the land (Cardinal, 2019) . This disconnection not only affected their traditional ways of living but also their identities and social structures, as the land is central to Indigenous worldviews and ways of life. Erosion of Language and Culture : The imposition of colonial languages and education systems sought to assimilate Indigenous peoples and erode their languages and cultures (Cardinal, 2019) . This led to a significant loss of linguistic diversity and cultural practices, impacting the transmission of traditional knowledge, stories, and values from one generation to the next. Introduction of Diseases and Population Declines : The arrival of colonizers introduced new diseases to Indigenous populations, who had no immunity to these illnesses (Cardinal, 2019) . This led to catastrophic population declines, further exacerbated by violence and policies aimed at assimilating or eliminating Indigenous cultures (Joseph, 2017) . Undermining of Social Structures and Governance : Colonial policies often undermined traditional Indigenous governance systems, replacing them with structures that did not align with Indigenous ways of managing their communities and resources (Cardinal, 2019) . This shift disrupted social cohesion and traditional means of conflict resolution, decision-making, and community organization. The collective impact of colonization on Indigenous cultures and ways of living cannot be overstated. It has led to systemic inequalities, health disparities, and ongoing struggles for rights and recognition. However, Indigenous communities continue to resist these impacts, working towards the revitalization of their cultures, languages, and rights. They are reclaiming their

traditions, governance structures, and relationships with the land, highlighting the resilience and strength of Indigenous peoples in the face of colonization(Cook 2024). 3. What is the Worldview from the Indigenous perspective? How does it compare with your culture’s Worldview? (include citations to support your answer) The worldviews of Indigenous peoples and Western societies are shaped by distinct cultural, historical, and philosophical perspectives: Relationship with Nature : Indigenous worldviews frequently emphasize how closely people are connected to and dependent upon nature. It is believed that nature is a living thing with sacred and spiritual importance. Indigenous cultures place a high value on environmental care and respect because they understand that humans and the natural world are mutually dependent (Kaminski, 2013). On the other hand, Western viewpoints have historically seen nature as a resource to be used for humanistic and economic reasons, which frequently results in environmental degradation. Spirituality and Science : Spiritual beliefs are often incorporated into everyday life in Indigenous worldviews. There is a holistic viewpoint that connects the spiritual, material, and environmental domains. In Indigenous cosmologies, relationships with the earth, spirits, and ancestors play a major role. On the other hand, despite their diversity, Western worldviews have witnessed a collapse in organized religion and a move towards scientific rationality, which requires proof as a basis of belief (Derek, 2011). Concept of Time: Indigenous worldviews may perceive time cyclically, where events and processes are seen as interconnected and recurring. This knowledge of cycles highlights the significance of life's continuity and cycles in nature. On the other hand, events are typically seen as following a linear timeline in the Western worldview, which is shaped by linear conceptions of time ((Linda, 2022)

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Oral Tradition and Storytelling: Oral storytelling is a rich heritage in Indigenous cultures, and it is a method for generations to transmit information, history, and cultural values. These stories maintain a connection to traditional knowledge and have a complex relationship with cultural identity (Chad, 2024). Western cultures, on the other hand, tend to place more value on written documents, formal education systems and books, frequently giving factual accuracy priority over narrative richness. 4. Provide tips with examples of how you would do business with people from an indigenous culture. (include citations to support your answer). 1. Research and Cultural Competence: Before starting any engagement, invest time in researching the Indigenous community's history, culture, governance, and challenges. This preparation aids in becoming more culturally competent, which is crucial for establishing respectful and informed interactions (Indigenous corporate training , 2021) . Example: Before proposing a project to an Indigenous community, learn about their traditional governance structures, significant cultural practices, and historical treaties or agreements relevant to their land and people. This knowledge will enable you to approach discussions with sensitivity to their perspective and priorities. 2. Build Relationships Early: Develop relationships with the community before you need something from them. This involves attending community events, participating in cultural ceremonies, and engaging in dialogues without immediate business agendas (Indigenous corporate training , 2021) . Example: Attend a cultural event or community gathering not related to any business dealings to show respect and genuine interest in the community beyond transactional needs. This helps build trust and opens channels for future communication.

3. Honor Oral Agreements: In many Indigenous cultures, oral agreements are as binding as written contracts, reflecting the community's value on integrity and trust (Indigenous corporate training , 2021) . Ensure that you honor commitments made verbally, as failing to do so can significantly damage your reputation and relationships. Example: If you verbally commit to providing certain resources or support to a community project, ensure you follow through. If unforeseen circumstances prevent you from keeping your word, communicate openly and promptly with the community to find a mutually acceptable solution. 4. Participate in Cultural Events and Ceremonies: When invited, participate in cultural events and ceremonies. Showing respect and openness to learning about the community's culture can significantly strengthen relationship (Indigenous corporate training , 2021) s. Example: If invited to a smudging ceremony, participate respectfully, follow the lead of community members, and show interest in learning about the significance of the ceremony. This gesture of respect can deepen your connection with the community. 5. Joint Problem Solving and Consensus Building: Approach challenges and projects with a mindset of joint problem-solving, recognizing that collaboration and consensus are valued in Indigenous cultures (Indigenous corporate training , 2021) . Engage the community in discussions to find mutually beneficial solutions. Example: If a project faces opposition due to environmental concerns, work with the community to identify alternative approaches that respect the land and cultural practices while still achieving project goals. Involve community members in the planning and decision-making processes to ensure their voices are heard and valued.

6. Acknowledge and Respect Cultural Survival: Understand that decisions made by Indigenous communities often reflect a deep commitment to protecting their land, culture, and future generations (Indigenous corporate training , 2021) . Approach business dealings with an awareness of these priorities and seek ways to align your objectives with the community's goals of cultural survival. Example : In negotiations, be prepared to discuss how your business activities will not only respect but also support the preservation of the community's cultural heritage and traditional practices. Offer to contribute to cultural or educational programs that benefit the community.

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References: 27 tips on what to say and do when working with indigenous peoples. Indigenous Corporate Training Inc. (n.d.). https://www.ictinc.ca/27-tips-on-what-to-say-and-do Cook, I. (2024, March 15). IBUS 255-41 - Online Classes - Wednesdays and Fridays 11:30 - 12:50 [MS Teams]. https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3aE48h2uOqK1b6eDXIbn1wXCVdhSuEeZwfj5jKWwUsHz k1%40thread.tacv2/1704154917611?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22edf0ebd9-3b23-4091-ba89- f28b9deb9998%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22e9dd402c-6002-4a10-b12b-f2c64c61e0f3%22%7d Derek, G. (2011, December 4). Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/religion-of-aboriginal-people Joseph, B. (2023, June 7). The impact of smallpox on First Nations on the West Coast. Indigenous Corporate Training Inc. https://www.ictinc.ca/blog/the-impact-of-smallpox-on-first-nations-on-the-west- coast Kaminski, J. (2013). Learning with the Natural World. First Nations Pedagogy. https://firstnationspedagogy.com/earth.html#:~:text=For%20countless%20generations%2C%20the %20First,and%20all%20of%20its%20creatures . Linda, T. (2022, February). Western and Indigenous Worldviews. Green Technology Education Centre. https://gteccanada.ca/reader/western-and-indigenous-worldviews/

Miller, J. (2012, October 10). Residential Schools in Canada. The Canadian Encyclopedia. https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/residential-schools Peer Support Adaptation Project Advisory Group, Zheng, K., Spence, D. R., & Cusick, J. (2022a, June 1). Impact of colonization on Indigenous Peoples’ culture. PostSecondary Peer Support Training Curriculum. Impact of Colonization on Indigenous Peoples’ Culture – Post-Secondary Peer Support Training Curriculum (opentextbc.ca) Susan, M. (n.d). Historical and Contemporary Realities: Movement Towards Reconciliation. Open Library. https://ecampusontario.pressbooks.pub/movementtowardsreconciliation/chapter/chapter-1-indigenous- stories-and-their-historical-significance/#:~:text=As%20the%20original%20inhabitants%2C %20Aboriginal,the%20arrival%20of%20the%20Europeans . YouTube. (2019a, September 16). Foundations of Indigenous worldviews. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPpvXRsGi-w Zach, P. ( 2007, March 13). Indigenous Peoples in Canada . The Canadian Encyclopedia. https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/aboriginal-people

Assignment -2_Group 11

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