Etuaptmumk: Two-Eyed Seeing | Rebecca Thomas | TEDxNSCCWaterfront

Summary

Rebecca introduces the concept of 'two-eyed seeing,' emphasizing how indigenous languages shape worldviews and cultural identity. She discusses the importance of language in indigenous cultures, using a study on English and German speakers to illustrate how language influences perception. Rebecca explores the idea of 'peoplehood,' which encompasses territory, sacred history, ceremonial cycle, and language. She advocates for the integration of indigenous perspectives in education and society, highlighting the benefits of a holistic approach to learning and understanding.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Language fundamentally shapes our worldview, and this is especially true for Indigenous languages.
• 🔗 Indigenous languages are intertwined with culture, community, and identity, influencing how people relate to the physical world and each other.
• 🌱 The concept of 'peoplehood' goes beyond individual identity, connecting Indigenous people through shared language, territory, sacred history, and ceremonial cycles.
• 🕸️ Peoplehood is like a web, where each aspect is interconnected—losing one element can impact the whole system, but it is also adaptable and flexible.
• 💬 The nuances of Indigenous languages often get lost in translation, as seen with words like 'jealousy,' which means much more than a simple 'welcome.'
• 🧠 Research shows that language can influence thought patterns, such as the difference between how English and German speakers describe events.
• 🌿 The concept of 'Two-Eyed Seeing' encourages viewing the world through both Indigenous and Western perspectives to find success and balance.
• 📚 Institutions implementing Indigenous teaching methods benefit all students, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, by fostering inclusivity and acknowledging different worldviews.
• 👁️ Two-Eyed Seeing asks for reciprocity, mutual accountability, and co-learning between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, enhancing understanding and cooperation.
• 📖 Indigenous people's survival and resilience are rooted in their ability to adapt while holding on to their cultural identity, despite colonization and historical oppression.

Q & A

How does the language we speak influence our worldview according to Rebecca?

Rebecca explains that the language we speak fundamentally shapes our worldview, including how we interact with the physical world, build communities, and carry our culture forward.

What is the concept of 'two-eyed seeing' and why is it important?

The concept of 'two-eyed seeing' is introduced by Elder Albert Marshall and it encourages seeing through both the colonized and indigenous perspectives simultaneously to find success. It is important because it promotes a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of the world.

How does the study published in Psychological Science demonstrate the impact of language on perception?

The study showed that English and German speakers described photographs differently, with English speakers focusing on the action and German speakers adding a destination, indicating that language influences how we perceive and describe events.

What does the term 'peoplehood' mean in the context of indigenous cultures?

In the context of indigenous cultures, 'peoplehood' refers to a broader identity that encompasses not only individual identity but also how an individual connects to a larger collective of people, including shared territory, sacred history, ceremonial cycle, and language.

Why is the Mega MA language significant to the Mega MA people?

The Mega MA language is significant because it gives meaning to their sacred history, dictates the use of the land, and is crucial to the execution of their ceremonial cycle, all of which are integral to their identity and culture.

How does the concept of 'peoplehood' allow for flexibility within indigenous cultures?

The concept of 'peoplehood' allows for flexibility because it acknowledges that some aspects, such as language or ceremonial practices, can be altered or adapted without compromising the status of being indigenous.

What challenges do indigenous students face in non-indigenous educational environments?

Indigenous students may face challenges such as feeling misunderstood due to different cultural protocols, concepts of time, and ethics. They might struggle to communicate effectively or feel that the educational environment does not fully appreciate their worldview.

How does the concept of 'two-eyed seeing' apply to education and student services?

In education and student services, 'two-eyed seeing' can be applied by advocating for students, coaching faculty on cultural supports, and encouraging institutions to implement indigenous pedagogy and learning styles to create a more inclusive and effective learning environment for all students.

What is the significance of the poem 'I Do Optimal' in the context of the script?

The poem 'I Do Optimal' serves as a creative expression of the concept of 'two-eyed seeing', illustrating the importance of understanding and valuing both indigenous and non-indigenous perspectives to foster a more inclusive and holistic worldview.

Why is it important for institutions to indigenize their practices and what are the benefits?

Indigenizing institutional practices is important because it recognizes and respects the diversity and richness of indigenous cultures. The benefits include a more inclusive educational environment and improved outcomes for all students, as indigenous pedagogy often emphasizes multiple perspectives and holistic learning.