Indigenous communities within the Treaty 6 region in the area presently known as Saskatchewan, Canada are experiencing impacts from climate change. This presentation explores how Indigenous drinking water sources are being impacted and barriers to making those sources more resilient. Additionally, the presentation examines these Indigenous communities’ philosophies of water and the connectivity between energy, land, and water management and sustainability.
Dr. Ranjan Datta is a Canada Research Chair –II in Community Disaster Research at Indigenous Studies in the Department of Humanities at Mount Royal University, Alberta, Canada. Ranjan's current research interests include advocating for Indigenous water rights, community disaster research, Indigenous energy management, decolonization, and community-based research His recent book, Reconciliation in Practice: A Cross-cultural Perspectives published with Fernwood Publishing. His other current edited book is Indigenous Reconciliation and Decolonization: Responsibility, Social Justice and Community Engagement, published with Routledge.
Joseph Naytowhow is an award-winning interdisciplinary artist and traditional knowledge keeper who specializes in storytelling, music, voice/movement and public speaking. Joseph serves local and international communities through the lens of his traditional Plains/Woodland nehiyaw/Cree culture. His busy schedule includes advice and consultation to several universities as well as translation services to many organizations and individuals.
Dwayne Lasas, Former vice-chief, Meadow Lake Tribal Council, Meadow Lake, Sask. Lasas a popular musician who plays throughout western Canada in addition to his role with the Meadow Lake Tribal Council, He frequently appeared in small roles on CBC’s drama series North of 60, and is currently a board member for the Saskatchewan Indian Cultural Centre.
Colleen Charles is a Woodland Cree from the Lac La Ronge Indian Band, La Ronge, Saskatchewan, Canada. She lives by the water at the trapline which has been used for generations. She is a land-based educator in her community. She is a single mother, grandmother, aunt, niece, and scholar.
Tribal Water Quality Governance