Artless Collective Presents - Chloe Dragon-Smith: Walking in Two Worlds

Summary

In the film *Walking in Two Worlds*, Chloe Dragon Smith shares her experience of navigating her Indigenous identity in Canada. The documentary explores her journey growing up in Yellowknife, connecting with her cultural roots, and reconciling the challenges of living in two worlds. The film addresses the complexities of identity, racism, and the impact of colonialism, while highlighting the importance of land-based education and cultural preservation. Through Chloe's story, the film reflects on the significance of understanding and balancing Indigenous and Western worldviews, with a focus on cultural resilience, connection to the land, and decolonization.

Takeaways

• 😀 Indigenous peoples had thriving, complex societies before European colonization, with their own systems of leadership, governance, land management, education, health care, and justice.
• 😀 Chloe Dragon Smith, an Indigenous woman, discusses her deep connection to her heritage and identity, which is central to who she is.
• 😀 Chloe faced challenges in recognizing her Indigenous identity due to societal perceptions and racism, especially when she was away at school.
• 😀 The concept of 'walking in two worlds' is a common experience for Indigenous people, balancing their cultural identity with mainstream society.
• 😀 Indigenous education systems, such as the Bush Kids program, focus on integrating land-based learning with formal education to respect Indigenous traditions and worldview.
• 😀 Indigenous peoples' relationship with the land is one of deep respect and responsibility, emphasizing sustainability, survival, and thriving through direct connection to nature.
• 😀 The caribou holds special significance in Indigenous culture, not only as a source of food but also as a symbol of the symbiotic relationship between people and the land.
• 😀 The colonial history of residential schools in Canada has left a lasting legacy on Indigenous peoples, with education often used as a tool of assimilation rather than empowerment.
• 😀 Chloe reflects on the challenges of reconciling Indigenous and Western worldviews, especially within the education system, and the need to respect both cultures.
• 😀 Walking in two worlds means navigating two distinct sets of values and expectations, and finding balance between these often conflicting systems.
• 😀 Canada's multicultural identity is shaped by Indigenous values of inclusivity and connection to the land, which remain important for all Canadians, regardless of their background.

Q & A

What is the significance of the film 'Walking in Two Worlds'?

The film 'Walking in Two Worlds' explores the life and experiences of Chloe Dragon Smith, an Indigenous woman, and addresses the complexities of balancing Indigenous heritage with the broader Canadian society. It highlights her journey and the impact of being raised in two distinct cultures.

What does Chloe Dragon Smith mean by 'walking in two worlds'?

'Walking in two worlds' refers to the experience of living between Indigenous cultural identity and the dominant societal structures of Canada. Chloe reflects on how she has to navigate these two worlds, sometimes feeling like she is thriving, and at other times, struggling to reconcile the two.

How does Chloe describe the challenge of identifying as Indigenous?

Chloe shares that there was no clear moment when she realized she was Indigenous; it has always been part of her identity. However, she discusses the challenge of not always being recognized as Indigenous due to her outward appearance, and how she has faced racism and disbelief about her heritage.

What role does land play in Indigenous identity according to Chloe?

For Chloe, the land is fundamental to Indigenous identity. She explains that her connection to the land is deeply intertwined with her people's traditions, governance, health, and survival. The land represents the roots of who she is and is central to her cultural understanding and practices.

What does 'strong like two people' mean to Chloe?

The phrase 'strong like two people' resonates with Chloe as it captures the experience of balancing two cultural identities. It expresses the strength needed to live within two worlds—one Indigenous and one non-Indigenous—and how that duality can both empower and challenge an individual.

How does Chloe view the education system in relation to Indigenous culture?

Chloe criticizes the Western education system, highlighting how it does not cater to Indigenous ways of knowing and learning. She reflects on how she often felt out of place in this system, which does not leave room for Indigenous identities or perspectives.

What is Bush Kids, and how does it relate to Indigenous learning?

Bush Kids is an on-the-land learning initiative that combines Indigenous learning principles with Western education. It focuses on creating a learning environment rooted in the land, where children learn about the world around them, not through conventional classroom structures, but through experiential, place-based education.

What role does food, particularly caribou, play in the Bush Kids program?

In the Bush Kids program, caribou plays a crucial role in teaching children about Indigenous food systems and their connection to the land. Caribou, as an important food source in the North, teaches children about the responsibility and respect involved in hunting and consuming animals for sustenance.

How does Chloe's family view her identity?

Chloe's family views her identity with love and acceptance, even as she navigates her place within two worlds. Her mother and other family members reflect on how Chloe's mixed heritage, including her lighter skin, has at times caused confusion, but ultimately, her family's support and recognition of her Indigenous identity remain strong.

How does Chloe address the issue of racism in her personal experience?

Chloe acknowledges that she has faced racist comments and challenges related to her Indigenous identity, especially from people who did not expect her to identify as Indigenous. However, she has learned to reconcile these experiences by focusing on her own sense of self and seeing racism as something for others to resolve, not herself.