Richard Hill | Ep 4 | Oral History | Voices From Here

Summary

In this video, Rick Hill, a Tuscarora from Six Nations, reflects on the teachings of the 'Great Dish' and 'Dish with One Spoon' philosophies, emphasizing resource sharing, respect for nature, and peaceful coexistence. He delves into the history of wampum belts, which hold ancestral memories, and discusses his work in repatriating cultural artifacts from museums. Rick highlights the importance of renewing relationships between Indigenous peoples and settlers through peace and understanding, encouraging future generations to continue building these connections based on mutual respect and cultural preservation.

Takeaways

• 🌍 The concept of 'The Great Dish' is about sharing Earth's resources, taking only what is needed, and leaving some for others.
• 🌱 Indigenous teachings emphasize that nature provides healthier sustenance than modern supermarket foods.
• 🛶 The 'Two Row Wampum' symbolizes co-existence between Indigenous peoples and Europeans, each following their own paths without interference.
• 🛠 Wampum beads are sacred items used to pass down ancestral memories and cultural knowledge.
• 🏛 Rick Hill's work in museums helped him rediscover Indigenous history, wampum belts, and cultural identity.
• ⛓ The 'Covenant Chain' treaty with the British symbolized an agreement of peace, respect, and mutual assistance between the Haudenosaunee and the British Crown.
• 🔍 Rick Hill faced challenges accessing Indigenous knowledge in archives due to colonial systems but worked to repatriate cultural artifacts.
• 🦅 The Haudenosaunee Confederacy of Peace was represented by the white pine tree, symbolizing shelter and unity.
• 🤝 The importance of renewing peaceful relationships between Indigenous peoples and settlers, based on mutual respect and understanding, is emphasized.
• 📜 Hill highlights that true reconciliation requires understanding Indigenous history and renewing people-to-people relationships, not just government treaties.

Q & A

What is the 'Dish with One Spoon' concept mentioned in the transcript?

The 'Dish with One Spoon' is a metaphor representing the shared responsibility to care for the land and its resources. The idea is that everyone shares from the same 'dish' using one 'spoon,' meaning resources are shared equally. The rules are simple: only take what you need, leave something for others, and keep the dish clean.

How does the 'Dish with One Spoon' relate to modern efforts among the Anishinabek and Haudenosaunee people?

The Anishinabek and Haudenosaunee people are working to revive the concept of the 'Dish with One Spoon,' emphasizing the importance of sharing resources and living in harmony with the land. This idea is seen as a path to healing, helping Indigenous people recover from the trauma of colonization and residential schools.

Who is Rick Hill, and what is his background?

Rick Hill is a Tuscarora from the Six Nations. His mother is Tuscarora, and his father is Mohawk. He has worked in museums and archives, where he has explored and recovered much of his people's history, particularly focusing on wampum belts and their significance.

What role do wampum belts play in Haudenosaunee culture?

Wampum belts are used to record agreements, relationships, and the history of the Haudenosaunee people. They are not just decorative items but carry the memory and wisdom of ancestors. The belts are also sacred, representing peace, unity, and the foundational principles of the Haudenosaunee way of life.

What is the significance of the Two Row Wampum belt?

The Two Row Wampum belt represents an agreement between the Haudenosaunee and Europeans, symbolizing co-existence. The belt shows two parallel rows, one representing the Haudenosaunee canoe and the other the European ship, traveling down the river of life together without interfering with each other’s paths.

What is the Covenant Chain of Peace, and what does it symbolize?

The Covenant Chain of Peace is a treaty between the Haudenosaunee and the British, represented by a wampum belt. It symbolizes a chain linking the British Crown and Haudenosaunee leaders, reflecting their commitment to honesty, peace, and cooperation. Over time, the chain would be 'polished' to renew the relationship.

What challenge did Rick Hill face in accessing archives and museums?

Rick Hill faced challenges in accessing archives and museums because he did not have formal credentials like a PhD. Many institutions restricted access, and he often needed the support of non-Native scholars. However, through protests and advocacy, Indigenous people have gained more access to their cultural artifacts and knowledge.

What does Rick Hill mean by 'polishing the chain' in relation to the Covenant Chain?

'Polishing the chain' refers to renewing the relationship between the Haudenosaunee and the British. It involves resolving conflicts, reaffirming peace, and maintaining respect. It is a metaphor for keeping the treaty relationship strong and enduring.

How did wampum belts help Rick Hill understand his heritage?

Wampum belts helped Rick Hill reconnect with his heritage by providing a tangible link to his ancestors. As a cultural detective, he explored the meanings behind the belts, learning about the traditions, treaties, and principles that shaped the Haudenosaunee way of life.

What message does Rick Hill want to convey about the future of relations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples?

Rick Hill believes that by drawing upon the traditions of the past, such as the Two Row Wampum and the Covenant Chain, Indigenous and non-Indigenous people can build a future of peace and mutual respect. He emphasizes focusing on people-to-people relationships rather than solely on government interactions, promoting understanding and reconciliation without guilt or shame.