Vuntut Gwitchen Flashcards
(18 cards)
What are the old crow flats?
6.170 km2 wetland complex in Northern Yukon, Canada. North of the Artic circle
What is the relationship between the Vuntut Gwitchen people and the land of Yukon?
They are intertwined, sustained for thousands of years
Why is the old crow flats important to the Gwitchen people?
It is apart of their daily lives and rountines
What are traditional activities do people engage in when they visit the old crow flats?
Fishing, hunting and praying
How do the Vuntut Gwitchen communicate with nature, specifically the ravens?
Grandmother speaks to it in the morning asking for caribou whereabouts
What skills are taught at camp from a young age?
How to skin animals, dry meat and respect ancestors
What significance do caribou hold in the Gwitchen culture?
They are a source of food that has been hunted through generations
What is the relationship between the land and Gwitchen people?
Very closely connected
What observations were made about the caribou season on May 21st?
Significantly less and delayed migration
What are some of the signs of climate chnage that have been observed in Northern Yukon region?
Temperatures rise higher than anywhere else, permafrost melting and salmon + all dish numbers declining
Why does Georgie mention having to dig into his freezer for extra food and not being able to depend on fishing as much anymore?
The lake dried up which significantly dropped the number of species available for food
Describe the event of the lake disappearing and what impacts did it have on the ecosystem?
Thermokarst processes lead to the thawing of permafrost (which is what the banks where held by) caused it to collapse in on itself and allowedleaving behind mud. Fish, beavers and other animals have no habitats.
Why did the community go to the steps of the Yukon territorial legislature and what message were they trying to convey?
Raises awareness of the issues they are facing with climate change e.g. imported food prices
What is the importance of politicians taking action to address food security in the Yukon?
Need to plan forwards and develop adaption strategies to protect the remote communities
What was the purpose of the symposium held in January 2009?
To bring everyone together to discuss lots of reoccurring issues
How does the reliance on outside food sources impact the community’s ability to feed themselves?
Not reliable as it expensive due to remote locations, making it necessary to find local resources
How are the youth involved in discussions about land, food and sustainability within the community?
Learning about traditional practises and sustainable approaches
In what ways are traditional skills and knowledge being integrated into modern solutions for food security?
New farming and gardening to enhance food production
