Understanding Indigenous Culture and Heritage for Newcomers

Fostering Respect and Reconciliation: The Importance of Learning Indigenous Culture

Understanding and learning about Indigenous culture and heritage is essential for promoting respect, reconciliation, and inclusivity within our communities. This knowledge helps both newcomers and long-time residents connect with the land’s original stewards, appreciate their enduring contributions, and honor their rich traditions. Recognizing the importance of this topic, Poran Poregbal, a volunteer host at Skyrise Media Society, recently invited Jacyntha to explore this vital subject during an enlightening discussion titled, “Learning about Indigenous Culture and Heritage is Essential for Newcomers.”

The conversation opened with a land acknowledgment, as Poran and Jacyntha paid tribute to the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the Squamish Nation. This acknowledgment set a respectful tone, emphasizing the importance of honoring the land’s first peoples and fostering a collective sense of responsibility. “Acknowledging the land we stand on is a vital step in fostering understanding and respect for Indigenous heritage,” Poran remarked. Jacyntha echoed this sentiment, adding, “This simple act reminds us of the deep connection between Indigenous peoples and this land—a bond that must be honored in our daily lives.”

Highlighting the Importance of Indigenous Education

Throughout the discussion, the urgency of bringing Indigenous culture and history to broader public awareness emerged as a central theme. Poran stressed the critical role education plays in fostering inclusivity:
“To truly embrace inclusivity, we must first learn the history of the land we live on. Understanding Indigenous heritage isn’t just an act of respect—it’s a shared responsibility.”

Jacyntha expanded on this point, highlighting education’s transformative potential:
“When newcomers understand the truth about colonization and its impacts, they can become allies in reconciliation. Learning about Indigenous traditions fosters a shared respect for diverse ways of knowing and being.”

The discussion also delved into the cultural richness of Indigenous peoples, particularly the Squamish Nation. From traditions and spirituality to Indigenous worldviews, these elements were framed as essential for appreciating the historical and ongoing contributions of Indigenous communities. Both speakers emphasized the importance of recognizing past injustices and working toward reconciliation as a path forward.

The Role of Practices, Elders, and Education

Poran and Jacyntha explored meaningful traditions, including smudging ceremonies—spiritual cleansing rituals that symbolize renewal—and the revered role of elders as cultural storytellers. “Cultural traditions are not just about the past; they are tools for healing, connection, and community growth,” Jacyntha explained.

To deepen understanding, viewers were encouraged to visit cultural centers, museums, and heritage sites. The speakers also referenced the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action, which underscore the importance of cultural education as a cornerstone of healing and unity.

A Vision for a More Inclusive Future

Poran concluded the discussion with a heartfelt call to action:
“Learning about Indigenous culture is not just about paying respect—it’s about building a stronger, more inclusive community where everyone feels connected and valued. This journey is essential for all of us—not just newcomers.”

This compelling conversation served as a powerful reminder of the role education, dialogue, and cultural appreciation play in fostering a society where Indigenous heritage is both honored and celebrated.

By embracing the responsibility of learning and sharing Indigenous culture, we pave the way for deeper reconciliation, enduring respect, and a more inclusive future. Through this collective effort, we not only honor the past but also build a stronger, more connected community for generations to come.

link: https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1450124405592/1529106060525

Guest speaker:

Jacyntha England, M.A.

Educator / Writer / Editor

ESL Facilitator and Youth Outreach Specialist

Volunteer Host: Poran Poregbal, MA, RSW, RCC.

Journalist and producer: Sherry Soltani

Skyrise Media Society