Episode 3 - Living in Balance Through Traditional Moose Teachings
Moose calf in the newly growing boreal forest, image by Tori Cress in Robinson Huron Treaty Territory
Beyond their ecological significance, moose hold a unique place in the hearts of many Indigenous communities as revered water beings. In this episode, our executive director, Jesse Cardinal, hosts a conversation with Jeff Wastesicoot and Dr. Kevin Lewis, who share their profound Cree moose teachings and experiences of living in harmony with these majestic creatures.
The loss of the moose's habitat is not just an ecological concern; it's a pressing water protection issue. Rampant clear-cutting and muskeg clearing are decimating their homes. This episode aims to bridge the knowledge gap by exploring the moose's identity and our intricate relationship with this animal, highlighting the urgent need for action. Join us as we delve deeper into this crucial topic.
We want to acknowledge the collaborative effort that went into producing this episode. Some of the audio was pulled from a webinar co-hosted by ourselves, kâniyâsihk Culture Camps, Indigenous Knowledge & Wisdom Centre, and Indigenous Climate Action. The Moose Teachings webinar, originally recorded on October 21, 2020, featured the Indigenous Moose Teachings with Jeff Wastesicoot and Kevin Lewis, moderated by Jesse Cardinal and Board of Director member Cleo Reece. This collective effort is a testament to our shared commitment to environmental education and advocacy.
As Indigenous People, we embody remarkable resilience and unwavering determination, and we profoundly understand our connection to the land, water, animals, and plants. Despite the disruptive forces of colonization and residential schools, we are reclaiming our identities. The desire to learn our language and songs, participate in ceremonies, and reconnect with the land is a testament to our strength. As an environmental organization, Keepers of the Water witnesses the far-reaching impacts of the industry across our vast territorial homelands, naturally fueling our determination to protect them.
Through this podcast, we amplify the voices of those who carry the Indigenous Knowledge, a beacon of hope guiding us towards a clean and just transition to a fossil-free world. Our traditional knowledge, deeply rooted in countless generations of storytellers, is not just a key but the key to the leading solutions to climate change. It is a testament to our collective history of resilience in the face of climate challenges.