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Indigenous Land Use & Food Protocols: Home

In this project, you will research and explore how specific Indigenous communities in British Columbia manage the land, follow harvesting protocols, and create traditional foods. If you wish to examine an Indigenous Group outside of BC- talk to Mx. Jull.

Project Components

1. Research Report (Written or Typed)

· What to include:

Introduction:

  • Name the Indigenous community you are focusing on (e.g., Lheidli T’enneh, Haida, Coast Salish- you could also focus on regional groups or language groups e.g. Dakelh speakers).
  • Explain the community's connection to the land and food systems.
  • Explain the community’s worldview or Indigenous worldviews in general. Discuss also the concept of kinship with nature.

Indigenous Land Use:

  • How do Indigenous communities in BC use the land?
  • Focus on sustainable practices and stewardship.
  • Include examples of how land is respected and managed.

Harvesting Protocols:

  • What are the traditions and rules when harvesting resources like salmon, berries, or plants?
  • Explain the cultural significance and ethics behind these protocols (e.g., respect for nature, taking only what is needed).

Indigenous Recipes and Food Traditions:

  • Choose one or two traditional recipes from the community you are researching.
  • Explain the cultural meaning behind the food and how it connects to land and harvesting practices.
  • If possible, include a basic recipe and how it’s prepared.

Conclusion:

  • Reflect on how Indigenous land and food practices can teach us about sustainability and ecological responsibility today.

2. Creative Presentation (Choose One)

· Options:

Multimedia Presentation (video, etc.):

  • Use visuals (images, maps, videos) to explain your research.
  • Add narration to guide the audience through your project.

Recipe Demonstration:

  • Make a short video or do a live demonstration of the recipe you researched.
  • Talk about the cultural significance of the dish as you prepare it.

Visual Art (e.g., poster, model, collage, painting, infographic):

  • Create a visual representation of harvesting, land use, or Indigenous food systems.
  • Include labels and a description of what your artwork shows.

Storytelling or Performance:

  • Create a short performance related to harvesting or food traditions.
  • Provide context and background about the story or performance.

3. (Optional Extensions)

· Interview or Conversation:

  • If possible, speak with an Indigenous elder or community member about land use, harvesting, or food traditions.
  • Include any insights or quotes in your project.

Colonial Impacts & Reconciliation

  • Research and explain how the Indigenous group you are learning about has been impacted by colonialism- this is very broad! You could focus on treaties/ land use agreements, any revitalization projects, residential schools in the area or any work being done around reconciliation in the area.

Assessment

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