Birthright

The assimilation and removal of Indigenous children to boarding schools disrupted one of our most cherished life practices: the childbirth ceremony. This sacred time traditionally involved the entire family, with older siblings playing a vital role in welcoming new life. However, many of these older siblings were taken from their families, stripping them of their culture, identity, and the practices that defined our communities. As younger siblings entered the world, they often did so surrounded only by those who carried knowledge of our ancestors and traditions, creating a disconnect for handing down knowledge to siblings of the newborn. This has affected us deeply.

In our traditional childbirth ceremonies, all family members, especially siblings, participated actively. They shared preparation duties, active listening opportunities to learn detailed ways of honoring life and family, gentle herbs, offered prayers, and songs to create harmony and joy for the new arrival. This collective celebration reinforced our bonds and honored the journey of life of the past connected to our future.

To reconnect with these vital Indigenous practices in today’s modern times, we can implement specific, realistic solutions:

1. Community-Based Birth Ceremonies: Organizing community gatherings to celebrate childbirth can help restore the traditional practices that were lost. By inviting extended family members and community elders, we can recreate the supportive environment that embraces the new life, sharing stories, prayers, and rituals together.

2. Cultural Mentorship Programs: Establishing mentorship programs that connect elders with younger generations can facilitate the passing down of cultural knowledge. Elders can teach traditional songs, prayers, and practices related to childbirth, ensuring that younger members understand their roles and responsibilities within the community.

3. Workshops on Traditional Practices: Hosting workshops focused on traditional childbirth practices, including herbal medicine and preparation of lifeways protocols, can empower families to reclaim lost knowledge. These workshops can provide hands-on experiences where participants learn to create herbal remedies, understand the significance of protocols, and engage in storytelling.

4. Healing Circles: Creating safe spaces for healing circles allows families to share their experiences of loss and disruption. These gatherings can incorporate traditional practices such as storytelling, prayer, and meditation, fostering connection and understanding as we navigate our healing journey together.

5. Incorporating Indigenous Knowledge in Education: Advocating for the inclusion of Indigenous knowledge and practices in school curricula can help educate future generations. Collaborating with local schools to develop programs that highlight traditional childbirth practices will create a more inclusive environment for Indigenous students and their families.

I believe that this disruption is a significant tear in our healing process. In my prayers and meditations, I hold my siblings, family members, and all my Indigenous relations close to my heart, acknowledging the loss we have experienced. My hope is that these gentle prayers will reach the spirit world in a good way, nurturing new growth and healing within our communities. Together, we can reclaim our traditions and restore the connections that enrich our lives and honor our heritage.