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Unveiling the Profound Bond: Culturally Sustaining Indigenous Education between Mothers and their Children

Beau Carter

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Published in Protecting The Promise: Indigenous Education Between Mothers And Their Children (Culturally Sustaining Pedagogies Series)

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Indigenous education systems worldwide are gaining recognition for their unique strengths and contributions to the preservation, revitalization and dissemination of cultural heritage and values. At the heart of these systems lies a profound bond between Indigenous mothers and their children, who serve as pillars of knowledge transmission and cultural continuity. This article explores the multifaceted role of Indigenous mothers in education, emphasizing the importance of culturally sustaining practices that honor traditional knowledge and ways of being.

Indigenous Motherhood and Cultural Identity

Indigenous mothers are the embodiment of cultural resilience and continuity. They carry the responsibility of passing down ancestral knowledge, language, values, and traditions to their children, ensuring the perpetuation of their unique cultural identities. Through storytelling, ceremonies, and daily interactions, Indigenous mothers nurture a deep connection between their children and their cultural heritage.

Protecting the Promise: Indigenous Education Between Mothers and Their Children (Culturally Sustaining Pedagogies Series)

by Jean-Robert Cadet

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13819 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	240 pages

An Indigenous Mother And Child Engaged In Cultural Learning Activities. Protecting The Promise: Indigenous Education Between Mothers And Their Children (Culturally Sustaining Pedagogies Series)

Culturally Sustaining Education

Culturally sustaining education practices acknowledge and incorporate the cultural knowledge, values, and perspectives of Indigenous students into the learning environment. This approach values the unique ways of knowing and learning that are inherent to Indigenous cultures, ensuring that students feel respected, understood, and empowered in their educational journey.

Indigenous mothers play a vital role in promoting culturally sustaining education. They collaborate with educators to develop curricula that incorporate Indigenous knowledge systems, language, and cultural practices. By sharing their own experiences and insights, Indigenous mothers provide invaluable perspectives that enrich the educational experience for all students.

Language as a Bridge to Culture

Language is a fundamental aspect of Indigenous identity and culture. Indigenous mothers are often the primary transmitters of their native language to their children. By speaking their language at home and encouraging its use in educational settings, Indigenous mothers foster a deep connection between their children and their cultural heritage.

An Indigenous Mother Teaching Her Child Her Native Language. Protecting The Promise: Indigenous Education Between Mothers And Their Children (Culturally Sustaining Pedagogies Series)

The Role of Elders in Education

Indigenous elders are revered as repositories of knowledge and wisdom. They play a significant role in the education of Indigenous children, sharing their stories, teachings, and cultural practices. Indigenous mothers often work closely with elders to ensure that their children have access to these invaluable resources.

An Indigenous Mother And Her Child Visiting An Elder. Protecting The Promise: Indigenous Education Between Mothers And Their Children (Culturally Sustaining Pedagogies Series)

Preserving Traditional Knowledge

Indigenous mothers are committed to preserving and revitalizing traditional knowledge, such as medicinal practices, storytelling, and artistic expressions. They pass this knowledge down to their children through generations, ensuring its continuity and relevance.

An Indigenous Mother Teaching Her Child Traditional Medicinal Practices. Protecting The Promise: Indigenous Education Between Mothers And Their Children (Culturally Sustaining Pedagogies Series)

The bond between Indigenous mothers and their children is a cornerstone of Indigenous education systems worldwide. Through culturally sustaining practices that honor traditional knowledge and values, Indigenous mothers empower their children to navigate the complexities of modern society while maintaining their cultural identity. By embracing the wisdom and teachings of their mothers and elders, Indigenous children gain a profound understanding of who they are and their place in the world.

Protecting the Promise: Indigenous Education Between Mothers and Their Children (Culturally Sustaining Pedagogies Series)

by Jean-Robert Cadet

4.7 out of 5