Wednesday March 2 2016
Doors open 6:00. 6:30 (sharp) to 9:00
OCADU Auditorium, 100 McCaul St., Just South of the AGO
The Series: Indigenize or Die
It is widely recognized that the dominant economic model of exploitation and domination of people and the planet is unsustainable and destructive to all life. The ship of global imperialism and colonization has hit an iceberg. While the majority of the world's inhabitants suffer the consequences of runaway capitalism and globalized war-making, the very few on the upper decks continue their party with business as usual, blissfully ignoring the realities.
In this somewhat aggressively titled series, "Indigenize or Die," we will deconstruct the myths of the dominant culture, explore a more truthful historical perspective and how that manifests today. Then, through the lens of decolonization and re-indigenization, we will explore together possibilities for an ecologically sustainable and socially-just way forward. We ask, how can we ensure the survival of complex life on this land in accordance with its legitimate laws and the laws of Nature?
The intent of the series is to weave an understanding of history and current reality into developing a practical "go forward" plan for this land. We will be joined by other Indigenous people from both here and elsewhere around Mother Earth throughout the year.
In this somewhat aggressively titled series, "Indigenize or Die," we will deconstruct the myths of the dominant culture, explore a more truthful historical perspective and how that manifests today. Then, through the lens of decolonization and re-indigenization, we will explore together possibilities for an ecologically sustainable and socially-just way forward. We ask, how can we ensure the survival of complex life on this land in accordance with its legitimate laws and the laws of Nature?
The intent of the series is to weave an understanding of history and current reality into developing a practical "go forward" plan for this land. We will be joined by other Indigenous people from both here and elsewhere around Mother Earth throughout the year.
March 2: An evening with Wendy Phillips
As our survival on this planet requires us to relearn that which we have forgotten, or has been forced out of us, we are fortunate indeed to have traditional Anishnaabekwe Seer, Pipe Carrier, Sweat Lodge Conductor and Traditional Healer, Wendy Phillips, to lead us.
Wendy comes not only with traditional knowledge gained from the elders and traditional ceremonies, but also with the other foot planted firmly in academic qualifications and business practices.
On February 3, 2016, Ka'nenkariyo Lefort presented the Onkwehonwe (Iroquoian) perspective of the Beaver Bowl Treaty (Dish with One Spoon) that governs this land on which we reside (1). Wendy presents the Anishnaabe (Ojibwe) perspective - the other pillar of the treaty for this region that includes 21 Indigenous nations. Each comes from an oral tradition of historical and ceremonial knowledge passed down through the generations, and each is equally qualified to speak on behalf of their people.
Having observed first-hand the effect of Wendy's compassion, spiritual knowledge and deep understanding has on her community, as well as her concise articulation of issues, Kevin Best and David Burman are thrilled that we have the opportunity to experience the wisdom of this unique and powerful woman who will lead us through the next fundamental step in our process of decolonizing and re-indigenizing.
(1) http://www.ammsa.com/publications/windspeaker/wampum-holds-power-earliest-agreements
Wendy comes not only with traditional knowledge gained from the elders and traditional ceremonies, but also with the other foot planted firmly in academic qualifications and business practices.
On February 3, 2016, Ka'nenkariyo Lefort presented the Onkwehonwe (Iroquoian) perspective of the Beaver Bowl Treaty (Dish with One Spoon) that governs this land on which we reside (1). Wendy presents the Anishnaabe (Ojibwe) perspective - the other pillar of the treaty for this region that includes 21 Indigenous nations. Each comes from an oral tradition of historical and ceremonial knowledge passed down through the generations, and each is equally qualified to speak on behalf of their people.
Having observed first-hand the effect of Wendy's compassion, spiritual knowledge and deep understanding has on her community, as well as her concise articulation of issues, Kevin Best and David Burman are thrilled that we have the opportunity to experience the wisdom of this unique and powerful woman who will lead us through the next fundamental step in our process of decolonizing and re-indigenizing.
(1) http://www.ammsa.com/publications/windspeaker/wampum-holds-power-earliest-agreements
Guest speaker Wendy Phillips:
Wendy Phillips is Ojibwa of the Bald Eagle clan of Wasauksing first Nation. Having been taught by the elders in the oral tradition has enabled her to take on the spiritual role of Ahnikgokon - one who works for the spirits. She is a Seer, Pipe Carrier, Sweat Lodge Conductor and a Traditional Healer, with the responsibility for knowledge of creation stories, calendars, prophecies, leadership, clan, traditional governance, women, men, relationship, marriage, rights of passage and medicine wheel teachings.
Wendy also holds a Masters degree in Environmental Studies and is academically qualified in Indigenous studies, business administration, career counselling and life skills coaching amongst others. She has held management positions in a wide range of organizations, most recently as executive director of Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre.
This unique set of education, skills and experience has enabled her to help many people maintain their spiritual, physical and mental well-being. Her journey has allowed her to share the traditional knowledge, conduct ceremonies, educational, cultural awareness workshops for secondary, post-secondary institutions, the private and pubic sector within Canada and USA. Her stated hope is to help future generations to preserve our traditional knowledge
Wendy also holds a Masters degree in Environmental Studies and is academically qualified in Indigenous studies, business administration, career counselling and life skills coaching amongst others. She has held management positions in a wide range of organizations, most recently as executive director of Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre.
This unique set of education, skills and experience has enabled her to help many people maintain their spiritual, physical and mental well-being. Her journey has allowed her to share the traditional knowledge, conduct ceremonies, educational, cultural awareness workshops for secondary, post-secondary institutions, the private and pubic sector within Canada and USA. Her stated hope is to help future generations to preserve our traditional knowledge
Guest host for the series Kevin Best:
Kevin Best has focused on how to create a just and sustainable society through activism, innovative business and restoring Indigenous society for over four decades. Of mixed heritage, through adoption he self-identifies as Anishinabeg of the Martin Clan. He has worked with Indigenous people throughout Turtle Island, consulted with Greenpeace and pioneered green energy in Ontario. He is currently working on a start-up called Odenaansan (Village or “the little places where my heart is”), an integrated, culturally-based approach to restoring Minobimadzin (the good life) through sustainable food, energy, housing and water in Anishinabe communities. Passionate about decolonization and re-indigenization, he is committed to spreading understanding of these life-giving possibilities. He has recently joined Mayor Wilson as a Consulting Partner.
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