The International Wolf Center acknowledges the lands on which we gather to educate and learn about wolves are the traditional and ancestral territories of the Anishinaabe, who have been enriching these lands since time immemorial. Through this Land Acknowledgment, we renew our commitment to understanding historical and ongoing colonialism and the resulting injustices and inequalities endured by Indigenous peoples. We are dedicated to understanding wolves’ cultural representation, responsibilities and meaning in Indigenous cultures. We recognize this Land Acknowledgment is only a small step in a long overdue journey to acknowledge properly and create justice for these communities and Nations. As our organization moves forward, we will be mindful of our participation in their marginalization and will continue to collaborate with Indigenous peoples. We wish to honor, respect and learn from the lifeways and knowledge of Indigenous peoples and Nations locally and worldwide.
FAQ’s
What is a Land Acknowledgment?
A Land Acknowledgment is a formal statement that recognizes Indigenous peoples as traditional stewards of this land and honors Indigenous peoples who have been living and enriching this land from time immemorial.
Why do we recognize the land?
A Land Acknowledgment allows us to express our gratitude and appreciation to those whose territory we reside on and calls us to take concrete actions beyond the statement.
What is the relationship between the Anishinaabe and wolves?
If you are interested in learning more about this topic, we encourage you to explore these resources and the others listed below:
- Cultural reflections of the relationship between the wolf and the Anishinaabe People Wolf Care Webinar
- Ma’iingan Relationship Plan 1837/1842 Ceded Territory – Peter David
- The Wolf’s Trail by Thomas Peacock, Ma’iingan (The Wolf) Our Brother
- White Earth Land Recovery Project
- Ma’iingan Brother Wolf – Wisconsin PBS Documentaries.
Terms to Better Understand:
Traditional
When used to describe territory, the term traditional recognizes land that was and often still is occupied and stewarded by Indigenous peoples.
Ancestral
Ancestral recognizes that land is handed down from generation to generation.
Time immemorial
This means ‘beyond living memory’ or ‘as long as can be remembered’.
Indigenous peoples
A collective name for original peoples that refers to Indigenous peoples with individual rights
Nation
The term nation shows respect for sovereignty and that Native nations have their own government systems.
Resources to Learn More:
Northern Minnesota Native Nations Websites:
