For Indigenous Minds Only
A Decolonization Handbook
Edited by Waziyatawin and Michael Yellow Bird
For Indigenous Minds Only features Indigenous scholars, writers, and activists who have collaborated for the creation of a sequel to For Indigenous Eyes Only (SAR Press, 2005). The title reflects an understanding that decolonizing actions must begin in the mind, and that creative, consistent decolonized thinking shapes and empowers the brain, which in turn provides a major prime for positive change. Included in this book are discussions of global collapse, what to consider in returning to a land-based existence, demilitarization for imperial purposes and re-militarization for Indigenous purposes, survival strategies for tribal prisoners, moving beyond the nation-state model, a land-based educational model, personal decolonization, decolonization strategies for youth in custody, and decolonizing gender roles. As with For Indigenous Eyes Only, the authors do not intend to provide universal solutions for problems stemming from centuries of colonialism. Rather, they hope to facilitate and encourage critical thinking skills while offering recommendations for fostering community discussions and plans for purposeful community action. For Indigenous Minds Only will serve an important need within Indigenous communities for years to come.
2012. 284 pp., 9 figures, 2 tables, activities, resources, notes, index, 8 x 10
Contributors: George Blue Bird, Gregory A. Cajete, Ngaropi Diane Cameron, Chaw-win-is (Ruth Ogilvie), Jeff Corntassel, Scott DeMuth, Na’cha’uaht/Kam’ayaam (Cliff Atleo Jr.), Leonie Pihama, Waziyatawin, Molly Wickham, Michael Yellow Bird
Download an excerpt.
—Linda Tuhiwai Smith, University of Waikato, Aotearoa (New Zealand)
“This is a highly useful anthology for anyone interested in Indigenous scholarship and philosophies. It will add immensely to the growing scholarship of First Peoples globally.”
—Erica Neeganagwedgin, Centre for World Indigenous Knowledge Research, Athabasca University, Indigenous Peoples Issues and Resources
- Introduction: Decolonizing Our Minds and Actions
Waziyatawin and Michael Yellow Bird - Indigenous Survival in the Coming Collapse
Waziyatawin - Returning to the Land: What Does It Take and Are You Ready?
Na’cha’uaht/Kam’ayaam (Cliff Atleo Jr.) - Neurodecolonization: Using Mindfulness Practices to Delete the Neural Networks of Colonialism
Michael Yellow Bird - Living in a Longer Now: Moving Beyond the State-Centric System
Jeff Corntassel - Colonization Is Always War
Scott DeMuth - Zuya Wicasta Naka Icahwicayapi (Raising New Warriors)
Waziyatawin - Decolonizing Indigenous Education in a Twenty-first Century World
Gregory A. Cajete - A BROWN PAPER on the Iraq War and the Resurrection of Traditional Principles of Just War
Michael Yellow Bird - Initiating the Process of Youth Decolonization: Reclaiming Our Right to Know and Act on Our Experiences
Molly Wickham - Decolonization Lessons for Tribal Prisoners
George Blue Bird - Kua Tupu Te Pā Harakeke: Developing Healthy Whānau Relationships
Leonie Pihama and Ngaropi Diane Cameron - Remaking Balance: Decolonizing Gender Relations in Indigenous Communities
Chaw-win-is (Ruth Ogilvie)