The First Peoples’ Principle of Learning
What is the principle that we discussed today?
Some knowledge is sacred and can only be shared with permission and in certain situations.
What does copper shield symbolize in potlatch?
Wealth and spiritual power
Give an example of cultural appropriation.
Mass-produced dreamcatchers sold without cultural respect.
Name two types of knowledge that are widely shared and two that are restricted in Indigenous cultures.
Widely shared: language, history.
Restricted: ceremonial practices, traditional medicine.
What is a Potlatch?
A gift-giving ceremony that shows generosity and status.
Why do Indigenous people want artifacts returned from museums?
Because they are sacred and meant for ceremonies.
What are three factors that decide if knowledge can be shared?
Type of knowledge, who owns it, and sharing context.
What happened in 2009 when an unsafe sweat lodge was held?
Three people died because it was not done properly.
What case recognized oral history as legal evidence?
Delgamuukw v. British Columbia (1997)
What should non-Indigenous people do when asking about sacred knowledge?
Ask respectfully and accept if the answer is “no.”
When did the potlatch ban start and end?
1884-1951
Why is Indigenous knowledge still not fully equal under the law?
Courts still favor written records over oral history.