The Best Water Ways learning suite was inspired, designed, and developed within the Unceded Traditional Territory of several Hul’qumi’num speaking communities that are part of the far-reaching Coast Salish Nation. ‘Huy tseep q’u Siem / Thank you all with deep respect’  to the local Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers who have generously shared knowledge relating to the Quw’utsun land and People during the making of these resources.

The integration of local Indigenous Ecological and Cultural Knowledge in today’s classrooms is invaluable and supports a holistic learning experience for students. In the context of local ecological sustainability, we have a great deal to learn about how to coexist better within the Living Earth , a theme which is central to many Indigenous teachings.

For settlers in this place currently known as Canada, it’s important to acknowledge the impact, harm, and suffering that colonization has caused and continues to cause Indigenous People and the land they’ve inhabited for at least ten thousand years. It is with humbleness and deep appreciation that we invite Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers to share their wisdom and help us on the path to better ways.

Our approach in Best Water Ways is that, through learner inquiry and actively connecting with Indigenous Ecological and Cultural Knowledge Keepers in their region, participants explore elements of local Indigenous Knowledge in their location throughout each session of the learning.  Additional supports for this important aspect of the learning are located within the additional resources section below the session links.