Dehcho Dechinta River Semester Experience 🛶

Introduction

• Emphasis on the connection to the land and Dene culture
• The importance of seizing opportunities to engage with cultural and land-based learning

Canoeing Fundamentals

• Basic canoeing techniques demonstrated
• The process of preparing oneself and safely entering canoes

Semester Overview

• Semester spans from Providence to Fort Good Hope
• Stops in multiple communities along the Dehcho Rivers

Personal Reflection

• Opportunity to explore ancestral regions and identity
• Internal conflict with identity and discovering the Dene heritage
• Currently enrolled in a social work program; sees value in combining it with on-the-land learning
• Nervous but excited about the journey

Dene Language and Culture

• Dehcho means “big river”
  • “Deh” = River
  • “cho” = Big
• An individual reminisces about losing and relearning the language
• Spiritual connection with the land and learning firsthand about its significance

Connection with Elders and Ancestral Stories

• Importance of learning from elders and the local people
• Dene language classes; acknowledgment of the challenge and persistence required
• Reflections on the historical use of language in prayer and communication by ancestors

Canoeing Challenges

• Physically demanding; requires community support
• The importance of contributing to the group's wellbeing

Cultural Reconnection

• Personal recounts of residential schools and loss of language and culture
• The journey as a means to reclaim and strengthen cultural ties

Significance of Bear Rock

• Connection to Dene creation stories
• Experience of the power and significance of Bear Rock
• Reflection on the historical importance of climbing Bear Rock

Modern Impacts on Traditional Lands

• Observations of industrial impacts, such as oil rigs, on the land and people
• Reflections on the social effects of these changes, including substance abuse

Conclusion

• Emphasis on the need for cultural and historical education from elders and through experiences
• Rediscovery and strengthening of cultural identity through the semester
• Importance of maintaining cultural practices and history for future generations
• Encouragement for individuals to learn about their heritage to understand themselves better