Lecture on Language, Worldview, and Two-Eyed Seeing

Introduction

• Rebecca introduces herself
• Emphasizes how language shapes worldview
• Focus on indigenous languages and their unique perspective

Language and Worldview

• Study in Psychological Sciences: "Two languages, two minds"
  • English speakers focus on action
  • German speakers add context/destination
  • Examples: Woman walking and man riding a bicycle
• Impact of language: Affects perception and interaction with the world

Indigenous Language and Peoplehood

• Indigenous languages shape identity and culture
• Example: Mi'kmaq word "Jelasi" meaning "I'll do my best" rather than "welcome"
• Concept of Peoplehood (Robert Thomas)
  • Encompasses individual identity and collective connection
  • Made of four threads: Territory, sacred history, ceremonial cycle, and language
  • Importance of each thread in maintaining cultural integrity

Flexibility and Complexity of Indigenous Identity

• Indigenous identity is complex, not diminished by language loss
• Example of Mi'kmaq identity despite not speaking the language
• Indigenous people incorporate multiple ceremonies and practices
• Challenges of authenticity and colonial history

Demographics and Education

• Indigenous peoples: Fastest growing demographic in Canada
• Median age: 28 years (compared to 43 for non-natives)
• Importance of meaningful interaction and understanding

Two-Eyed Seeing (Eduwaptamank)

• Introduced by elder Albert Marshall
• Combines strengths of indigenous and colonized worldviews
• Originally for STEM programs, now for collaborative efforts
• Emphasizes reciprocity, mutual accountability, and co-learning

Benefits of Indigenous Pedagogy

• Indigenous pedagogy benefits all students
• Recognizes multiple learning contexts and paradigms
• More universal and inclusive teaching methods

Conclusion: Exchange of Stories

• Importance of storytelling in building relationships
• Albert Marshall: Exchanges of stories as relationship foundation

Poem

• "Eru Optima" by Rebecca
  • Reflects on dual perspectives, identity, and the impact of colonial history
  • Encourages embracing two-eyed seeing and shared understanding

Final Thoughts

• Invitation to experience a world through two perspectives
• Call for openness and mutual understanding
• Closing thanks (Walali'e)