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[Land-Based Networks]

[Conceptualization of Land]

Jacqueline Hookimaw-Witt penned a thesis that shed light on Indigenous people’s, specifically the Cree people’s, understanding of land ownership, presenting a perspective deeply divergent from the colonial view that treats land as private property. The land is not an item to be bought or sold; rather, it’s at the center of a complex web of relationships that includes not just humans but animals, plants, and even inanimate elements like rocks.1 This approach to land signifies an intricate system of stewardship, where every element is interconnected, reflecting an advanced form of environmental computation that governs their way of living.

This Cree perspective on land goes beyond mere physical space, embedding within it a network of political, legal, and cultural ties that necessitate a balance between use and protection.2 It’s a form of computation that involves continuous processing of information about the land and its ecosystems, ensuring decisions are made that uphold the welfare of the entire community.

At the heart of the Cree relationship with the land are principles such as sihtoskâtowin (coming together in support) and miyo-wîcêhtowin (fostering good relations), which underpin a community-oriented approach to existence.3 These principles are essentially algorithms for living harmoniously with the land, guiding the Cree in making complex decisions that benefit the entire ecosystem.

The Indigenous people hold a conceptualization of land not as merely a resource to be owned but as a vital component of life that is to be shared among all beings. This perspective nurtures a deep respect for the environment, prioritizing the well-being of the collective over individual gain.

The image shows a low-angle view of young corn plants growing in neat rows, with the warm glow of a sunset in the background. The corn stalks are vibrant green, standing tall with leaves reaching towards the light. Intriguingly, there are luminous green dots and lines along the soil, giving the impression of a network of glowing connections between the plants. This suggests a connection between technology and agriculture. The setting sun casts a golden light on the scene, creating a tranquil and almost otherworldly atmosphere. Image made with generative AI.

[Lessons in Reciprocity]

In the intricate web of land-based networks, the principles of reciprocity and interdependence shine brightly, offering a blueprint for sustainable human and environmental relationships. This network, deeply rooted in the knowledge and practices of indigenous cultures, emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life forms. Within the Three Sisters garden, corn, beans, and squash coexist in a symbiotic relationship, each contributing to the welfare of the whole.4 This agricultural metaphor extends into the wider concept of land-based networks, where the land itself is seen as a living, breathing entity that sustains, teaches, and connects communities. The land offers more than just resources; it is a foundation for identity, culture, and survival, necessitating a reciprocal respect and care.

Beyond agriculture, land-based networks manifest in the stewardship of natural resources, guided by an understanding that everything is connected. Ancient pathways, waterways, and the practice of controlled burns reveal a sophisticated management of the land that sustains ecological balance and community well-being. These practices, born from generations of observation and respect for natural cycles, illustrate a complex system of knowledge and relationships. As humans, our survival and prosperity are intricately linked to these networks. Recognizing and honoring these connections encourages a holistic approach to living, where actions are taken with consideration of their impact on the entire web of life.

Expanding the ethos of the Three Sisters to societal structures, we see potential for communities that thrive on the principles of mutual support and shared prosperity. Land-based networks teach us that every member of a community, like every element of an ecosystem, holds intrinsic value and purpose. By fostering an environment where reciprocal relationships are at the core, we can create societies that prioritize collective well-being, sustainability, and a deep reverence for the land. This calls for a reimagining of our connection to the land, seeing it not as a resource to be exploited, but as a sacred network of life that sustains and enriches us all. In embracing these principles, we pave the way for a future that harmonizes human needs with the natural world, ensuring abundance and resilience for generations to come.

The image features a close-up view of young corn plants bathed in soft, sunlit glow. The leaves are a fresh, vibrant green, with sunlight filtering through, enhancing their translucence. There are luminous green nodes connected by delicate white lines that overlay the image, resembling a network or web of light encompassing the plants. This digital overlay represents the interconnectedness of the plants with each other and their environment, and also alludes to concepts of data networks in nature and the unseen energy of growth. The overall effect is both grounding and ethereal, highlighting the natural beauty of the plants while inviting thoughts on the intersection of nature and technology. Image made with generative AI.
Let us draw upon the wisdom of land-based networks, where every element of the ecosystem is valued and interconnected.

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