First Nations and Water Security : An Ecofeminist Analysis of the Role of Indigenous Women Water Protectors
| Authors | |
|---|---|
| Year of publication | 2019 |
| Type | Appeared in Conference without Proceedings |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| Description | In Canada, First Nations people have always honoured water and recognized the essential role it plays in sustaining life on Earth. Indigenous women in particular feel responsible for protecting water as their role of mothers ties them directly to water. This cherished bond is embedded in Indigenous traditions and water knowledge was traditionally passed down from generation to generation of women who were raised as the “Keepers of the Water”. Nevertheless, this traditional role of Indigenous women was disrupted during colonization by patriarchal assimilationist policies that disempowered them and prevented them from assuming leadership positions. As a consequence, First Nations people have been reliant on the Western water management system that is causing problems with water security in Indigenous communities and beyond. Today, more than 100 First Nations live on reserves where water is contaminated and unsafe for consumption. Some sources speak of as many as 150 water advisories in Indigenous communities many of which have been in affect for decades. In this paper I will demonstrate that water security problems in First Nations communities are due to the forced imposition of a Western dualistic mentality and water management onto Indigenous peoples that treats water as a commodity that can be exploited for human profit. Moreover, such a mindset causes and perpetuates environmental sexism, classism, and racism that is most evident on First Nations reserves. Employing ecofeminist analysis, I will highlight the connections between the abuse of Indigenous women and water and will argue that Indigenous women need to be again entrusted with water governance if any real change is to be achieved. On the examples of the Idle No More movement and other successful women-led initiatives for water security across Canada, I will show how Indigenous women are raising their voices and demanding water justice. |
| Related projects: |