A sign of protest on the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation in North Dakota. Photo from This is Mandaree / Facebook
Why are indigenous views often in conflict with those of western societies? Mike Myers (Seneca Nation) of the Network for Native Futures takes a look at the issue from a creation standpoint:
In our Creation Stories there are the Teachings of what each of these Beings agreed to do and to provide so that we may have a life here. There is this overriding principle of reciprocity between us and them. These Teachings and understandings preclude the idea that somehow we can be owners of another living being. Some of them have made great sacrifices so that we may have a life here as seen in the story of the Muskrat who dives to the bottom of the great ocean and died bringing back a bit of mud to begin the transformation of the world. Then there is the recounting of the agreements made between our first ancestors and each of the living beings who agreed to support us. As one listens to the recounting of these agreements you can’t help be struck by the fact that they are saying to us that they are prepared to give up their lives so that ours may continue. What they ask in return is quite simple: be thankful, don’t over harvest, and do what you can to insure sustainability seven generations into the future.Get the Story:
Mike Myers: Sky Woman and Eve (Indian Country Today 3/12)
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