Description
In the Words of Elders: Aboriginal Cultures in Transition is a collection of interviews with 16 Elders and traditional teachers. The Native Studies Department at Trent University responded to the need for a text that provided an overview of First Nations teachings from the perspective of the Elders. Traditional teachers representing a variety of traditions and culture areas of Canada were selected and interviewed. The result is a compelling collection of first person narratives that address a range of topics. The text contains a wealth of knowledge from a generation of respected Elders and traditional teachers. While each life story and experience is different, the collection allows the reader to glimpse and compare the world-view and traditions of the Passmoquady, Micmac, Seneca, Mohawk, Odawa, Ojibwe, Innu, Mushkegowuk Cree, Inuit, Dakota Sioux, Saulteau, Slavey, Dogrib, Shayshas, and Musqueam. The interviewer spent several days during 1995-1995 interviewing each Elder at home. Topics covered include: life history, creation stories, important aspects of Native culture, using traditions today, traditional dwellings, Elders, humour, work, grieving, ceremonies, time, relation between language and culture, traditional medicines and foods, education, life on the land, traditional justice, attaining balance, relations with non-natives, dreams and prophecies. This exceptional collection proves that collaboration between academics and Elders is possible and the result can benefit all people. This text is recommended for high school, college and university. A hardcover edition is also available.