5x15 Presents: Robin Wall Kimmerer, Live at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Jun 10, 2024
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Robin Wall Kimmerer, a renowned mother, scientist, and decorated professor from the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, shares her insights on our relationship with nature. She emphasizes the importance of gratitude and reciprocity within Indigenous traditions. The captivating Creation Story of Sky Woman illustrates community and Earth care. Kimmerer advocates for viewing plants as teachers and highlights the need for a decolonial approach to ecology, merging land, culture, and identity, fostering a profound respect for the living world.
Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer emphasizes the importance of incorporating traditional ecological knowledge from Indigenous communities to enhance modern ecological understanding.
Kimmerer promotes a mindset of gratitude and reciprocity towards nature, urging humanity to act as caretakers rather than mere consumers of Earth's resources.
The concept of 'two-eyed seeing' encourages the integration of Indigenous wisdom with Western science, fostering collaborative and holistic approaches to sustainability challenges.
Deep dives
The Importance of Traditional Ecological Knowledge
Traditional ecological knowledge, especially that of Indigenous communities, is emphasized as crucial for understanding our relationship with nature. Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer articulates how these communities possess invaluable insights that modern science is beginning to recognize and incorporate. By blending this traditional wisdom with contemporary scientific practices, a more holistic approach to ecology can emerge. This knowledge enriches our understanding of botany and informs ways to foster a sustainable relationship with the environment.
Gratitude and Reciprocity with Nature
The concept of gratitude towards nature and reciprocity highlights the responsibilities humans have as caretakers of the earth. Kimmerer stresses that rather than simply taking from nature, we should focus on what we can give back in return. This idea is rooted in traditional belief systems, advocating for an understanding of nature as a partner rather than a resource. By fostering this mindset, individuals can transform their relationship with the natural world and promote sustainable living.
Decolonizing Relationships with Land
Kimmerer discusses the need to decolonize our relationship with land, moving away from viewing it merely as property or a resource. This perspective shift is vital in recognizing land as sacred and integral to identity and community. She reflects on how the colonial mindset has historically disrespected and objectified nature, advocating for a new framework that acknowledges our moral responsibilities towards the earth. By creating a deeper connection to land, a more just and sustainable future can be envisioned.
Language as a Tool for Change
The role of language in shaping our perceptions of the natural world is a significant focus, as Dr. Kimmerer critiques the objectifying grammar of English. She highlights how referring to living beings as 'it' diminishes their personhood, advocating for the development of new grammatical structures that acknowledge their agency. By creating language that respects nature, individuals can change their own relationships with the natural world. This linguistic shift serves as a pathway toward fostering respect for all beings and promoting environmental stewardship.
Two-Eyed Seeing: Integrating Perspectives
Kimmerer introduces the concept of 'two-eyed seeing,' which combines Indigenous knowledge with Western scientific frameworks. This approach advocates for an inclusive understanding that values diverse perspectives in addressing environmental issues. By employing both ways of knowing, more comprehensive solutions to sustainability challenges can be developed. This integration not only respects Indigenous methodologies but also enhances the effectiveness of conservation efforts, fostering a collaborative relationship with the earth.
5x15 is delighted to announce an exclusive event with leading author Robin Wall Kimmerer, in the beautiful setting of Kew Gardens.
Robin Wall Kimmerer's internationally bestselling books, Braiding Sweetgrass and Gathering Moss, not only teach us about the biology of different organisms, but show us other ways of living in the world. It is through celebrating our reciprocal relationship with nature that we can awaken our ecological consciousness, and better protect our planet's gifts.
Don't miss the chance to hear this extraordinary writer share her unique perspectives on plants, ecology and the natural world.
Robin Wall Kimmerer is a mother, scientist, decorated professor and enrolled member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. She lives in Syracuse, New York, where she is a Professor of Environmental Biology and the founder and director of the Centre for Native Peoples and the Environment. Her current work spans traditional ecological knowledge, moss ecology, outreach to tribal communities and creative writing.
Tickets for this event also include early access to Kew Gardens from 2pm on the day.
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