Inaaknigewin is a form of governance on how we live on the land. It is a set of principles and guidelines that we follow to ensure that we live with nature. It is very important that we try to understand this in today’s world, because today, we seem to go against nature.
Our Mother Earth constantly gives. The plants, the water, everything is always giving life to everything else. The main principle of inaaknigewin is being able to give. Rather than it being about a rights based way of life, inaaknigewin is responsibility based. Instead of having a right to water, we should have a responsibility to it. Following inaaknigewin ensures balance and harmony. The principles of inaaknigewin come from the heart so that we work together in a good way. Inaaknigewin is a responsibility based approach to the environment and each other.
It is important for educators to introduce this concept to their students before reading The Sacred Fisher Story. Additionally, take some time to explore the meanings of love, balance and respect to ensure students are able to make those connections throughout the story and after.
The following videos help to further explain the concept of inaaknigewin and how teachers can incorporate it into their classrooms.