T&RG

Truth & Reconciliation group

In Indigenous cultures, harvesting indigenous plants goes far beyond mere sustenance—it's a sacred act of connection with the land, our ancestors, and the natural world. When we venture out to gather plants that have sustained Indigenous peoples for generations, we are engaging in a profound relationship with Mother Earth.


Harvesting indigenous plants allows us to immerse ourselves in the rhythms of nature, to breathe in the scents of the earth, and to feel the pulse of life all around us. It is a practice steeped in tradition, wisdom, and respect for the interconnectedness of all living beings.


Moreover, the act of gathering indigenous plants offers a multitude of physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. It reconnects us to our ancestral knowledge, reminding us of our place in the intricate web of life. It nourishes our bodies with the healing properties of these plants, providing sustenance and medicine in equal measure. And perhaps most importantly, it rejuvenates our spirits, offering solace, peace, and a sense of belonging in a world that can often feel disconnected and chaotic.


In essence, harvesting indigenous plants is not just about gathering food or medicine—it is a profound act of reciprocity, gratitude, and reverence for the land that sustains us. It is a reminder that we are part of something greater than ourselves, and that by honoring the earth, we honor ourselves and future generations to come.


CONTEST - Ends June 21, 2024

‘Uy’ skweyul fellow educators! Feeling stuck under piles of papers and lesson plans? Time to shake things up with a mental health break, Indigenous style! Step outside, connect with the land on Vancouver Island in a scavenger hunt for Indigenous plants. Dive into Mother Nature's pharmacy, uncovering the Coastal Salish Peoples' healing secrets.


The Truth & Reconciliation Group's contest offers a chance to win Pacific Northwest Plant cards. These guides lead you to identify, harvest, and even munch on nature's remedies. It's a soulful treasure hunt!


Take time for yourself, ground your spirit, and practice mindfulness in nature. Snap a pic of a plant with you in it, do some Google sleuthing, and email us (info@nanaimoteachers.ca) your discoveries to enter the draw; give us some insights into the plant(s) yu have found. Let's reconnect with the land, have fun, and one of you will win a set of plant cards; winner will be drawn on National Indigenous Peoples Day, June 21st.


Spending time in nature is like hitting the reset button for your soul, especially for stressed-out Canucks. Studies show it's nature's therapy session! So trade lesson plans for quality time with Mother Nature. Hug a tree, take a hike, and let the great outdoors boost your mental well-being. Embrace nature for a happier, healthier you!


Hay ch qa, 

Julie Ludwinowski, T&RG Chair


*Only one prize awarded.

EXAMPLE EMAIL

Teaching Colleagues about Local Indigenous Plants: 

  • Harvested through spring & summer 
  • Great in salad, or garnish, or by itself 
  • Larger the leaf, less bitter, tastes like spinach 
  • Grows like clover, found bases of tree 
  • Prefers a cool, damp, and shaded areas 
  • Local location was found - Neck Point

Miner’s Lettuce No Specific Word in Hul’q’umi’num’ could use sts’alha’ = Leaf Latin: Claytonia perfoliata

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