Acknowledge water as sacred.
Water is life. As Anishinaabe and Nehiyaw, we understand that water connects us all. We should always treat water with respect and remember that water is shared with all living being. We call on all peoples to acknowledge and honour water as sacred and life giving.
What we are doing.
One of the common understandings of Anishinaabe and Nehiyaw is how water is deeply connected with all life and inherently valuable. Many Indigenous peoples around the world hold similar ideas and have sought recognition of water as sacred. The Whanganui Iwi, convinced the New Zealand government to recognize the Whanganui River as a legal person through legislation. They are not alone.
In partnership with Decolonizing Water, we will be learning from the Whanganui Iwi and other Indigenous peoples around the world about their journey advocating for water, and how we should seek recognition of the sacred relationship of water.
What you can do.
Honour the teachings you have been given. Remember to honour the water with prayers and good intentions everyday, and always lay down tobacco when you enjoy the gifts from the land, including the water.
Let us know if you have any ideas for acknowledging water as sacred or would like to get involved.