CULTURE IS PASSED ON THROUGH THE GENERATIONS

Traditional Aboriginal education is different from European-style education. Children learn with their families and immediate community. Learning is ongoing and does not take place at specific times. Children learn how to live, survive, and participate in and contribute to their household and community. They are encouraged to take part in everyday activities alongside adults to watch and listen, and then eventually practice what they have learned. Education is a lifelong process as people grow into different roles: child, youth, adult, and Elder. Aboriginal cultures are traditionally inclusive. Lynda Gray, an author from the Tsimshian First Nation writes, "Everyone had a place in the community despite their gender, physical or mental ability, sexual orientation, or age. Women, Elders, Two-spirit, children, and youth were an integral part of a healthy and vibrant community." In Aboriginal cultures, Elders are cherished and respected. However, an Elder is not simply an older or elderly person. Although each community has its own definition of who an Elder is, an Elder is usually someone who is very knowledgeable about the history, values and teachings of his or her culture. He or she lives their life according to these values and teachings. For their knowledge, wisdom and behaviour, Elders are valuable role models and teachers to all members of the community. Elders play an important role in maintaining the tradition of passing along oral histories.

1. What did you know about the indigenous people of Canada before? What have you learned?
2. Why is it important to learn about these cultures? How could this information be helpful for your academic and professional goals?