Lecture Notes: Indigenous Languages and Two-Eyed Seeing

Introduction

• Language shapes worldview.
• Especially true for indigenous languages.
• Language weaves through identity, culture, and interaction with the world.

Study on Language and Perception

• Psychological Sciences study: "Two Languages, Two Minds."
  • English vs. German speakers describing actions differently.
  • English focuses on actions, German includes destinations.
  • Highlights different worldviews from language structure.

Language and Indigenous Identity

• Indigenous languages have unique translations and deeper meanings.
  • Example: "jelassi" means "I'll do my best," implying personal commitment.
• Language is tied to peoplehood, not just a tool for communication.

Peoplehood Concept

• Defined as a collective identity.
  • Includes territory, sacred history, ceremonial cycle, and language.
  • Each aspect interconnected like a spiderweb; altering one affects all.
• Flexible concept; indigenous identity remains despite changes.
  • E.g., English replacing indigenous language due to historical factors.

The Challenges of Colonization

• Indigenous languages and identities affected by colonization.
• Treaties and agreements historically lost nuances in translation.
• Peoplehood allows adaptation without losing indigenous identity.

Two-Eyed Seeing

• Concept introduced by Elder Albert Marshall.
  • Combines strengths of indigenous and colonized worldviews.
  • Encourages seeing through both lenses simultaneously.
• Originally for STEM education, now broader application.
  • Reciprocal learning, mutual accountability.
• Importance for institutions to adopt indigenous pedagogies.
  • Benefits all students through inclusive learning styles.

Final Thoughts

• Two-Eyed Seeing fosters understanding and collaboration.
• Encourages seeing multiple perspectives for better relationships.
• Poem reflects on loss and rediscovery of indigenous knowledge.

Conclusion

• Indigenous peoples are a growing demographic in Canada.
• Engagement with indigenous worldviews necessary for meaningful progress.
• Invitation to embrace Two-Eyed Seeing for mutual understanding and growth.