Pekîwe ᐯᑮᐁᐧ Coming Home: Healing Through Land and Cultural Reclamation

Abstract

This thesis research will explore the ways in which land-based healing and reclamation are interconnected. The Indigenous community members of the Pekîwe Cultural Lodge were both collaborators and co-thinkers in this work. Looking at the social aspects of reclamation through an Indigenous lens provides a rich dialogue that will be valuable to the academic literature in both reclamation and Indigenous studies. A unique Indigenous research method is utilized in these processes. Primary qualitative research data is analyzed, outlining the opportunities and challeneges of reclamation and restoration work with an Indigneous community in centeral Alberta. Additionaly, numerous land-based healing methodologies from some Traditional Knowledge Keepers of Maskwacis are presented here. This research aims to assist in advancing collaboration and co-management regarding reclamation and restoration work. Additionally, this work aims to inspire and encourage Indigenous academics and community members, especially youth, to pursue their own healing journeys. Hopefully this will result in more brilliant and resilient Indigenous minds achieving their goals and bringing their gifts to life. Some key concepts in this area include self-determination, resurgence, treaties, governance, healing, participatory responsibility, traditional ecological knowledge, ecological integrity, restoration ecology, biocultural restoration, eco-cultural restoration, and reciprocal restoration.