We've Been Here Before―Returning to the Land for Healing is Climate Change Direct Action with Dr. Kevin Lewis
As Long As The River FlowsShow Notes
Welcome to As Long As The River Flows, a Keepers of the Water podcast! With this podcast, we hope to uplift our communities' collective voices and their work to protect clean fresh water. We are First Nations, Métis, Inuit, environmental groups, and concerned citizens working together for the protection of water, air, and land. We acknowledge that all water is connected and that water is sacred. Clean, fresh water is vital for the future and survival of all the life we share on this incredible planet. Today's guest, Dr. Kevin Lewis, is from the Miniikwan Lake Cree Nation in Treaty 6. Dr. Lewis is a writer, a researcher, an instructor and the founder of the kâniyâsihk (kon-ya-sik) Culture Camp, where students participate in land-based learning such as connecting with elders and knowledge-keepers, harvesting medicines, tanning hides, and participating in ceremonies. Dr. Lewis reminds us that we have faced climate change in the past. From floods to ice ages to wildfires, we have been on this land for so long that we have collective oral stories to remind us that we have all we need within our culture and languages to face what's coming. There is no denying that we are in a time of climate change, meaning we are in sacred times, and it is our songs, prayers, and teachings that will help guide us all through the uncertainty we are collectively experiencing right now. The first step on that path is our own personal healing because we know that the land heals, the land is forgiving, the land is generous, and the land is calling us back home to receive our instructions. This episode was edited and produced by Beverly Andrews.
More from As Long As The River Flows
Episode 39 - Disarming Bill C-5/5: Indigenous Defence of Land & Democracy Part 4 of a 4 part series
Episode 38 - Disarming Bill C-5/5: Indigenous Defence of Land & Democracy Part 3 of a 4 part series
Episode 37 - Disarming Bill C-5/5: Indigenous Defence of Land & Democracy Part 2 of a 4 part series
Episode 36 - Disarming Bill C-5/5: Indigenous Defence of Land & Democracy Part 1 of a 4 part series WHAT Part one of a four part series on Federal Bill C-5 and Ontario Bill 5 are moving fast — and their implications are profound. These bills contain what legal experts call "Henry the VIII clauses": sweeping powers that allow Cabinet to designate projects of "national interest" (PONIs) that are exempt from democratic process: free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC), environmental assessments and protections, labour protections, and more — all behind closed doors. Put plainly: these laws legalize fascist behaviour. Community and solidarity is needed now more than ever.
Episode 35 - The Criminalization of Indigenous Land Defenders in Canada - Our Truth Part Four, Frances Mahon and Erin Riley-Oetll WHAT This is part four of a four part series on the criminalization of land defenders across Canada, highlighting firsthand experiences and legal injustices. WHO Frances Mahon is a fierce litigator. The core of her practice is defending people against serious allegations in a variety of settings, including complex criminal trials and appeals, police investigations, and constitutional government overreach. Frances provides legal services to individuals, families, non-profits, companies, and other organizations. She has appeared in courts and tribunals across the country, including frequent appearances at the Supreme Court of Canada. Erin Riley-Oettl currently serves as the Manager of Human Rights Law, Campaigns, and Advocacy at Amnesty International Canada since August 2023. Amnesty International is a global movement of more than 10 million people who are committed to creating a future where human rights are enjoyed by everyone. No government is beyond scrutiny. Amnesty International uncovers the truth and holds human rights violators to account. MUSIC Song: A Better Future Composer: Miguel Johnson Website: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCenTwNA8ioN37RD7bfNSUpA License: Free To Use YouTube license youtube-free Music powered by BreakingCopyright: https://breakingcopyright.com