Design a Poster to Honor the Indigenous Lands You Live On
Indigenous tribes have an extensive history of being respectful stewards of the land for thousands of years. Land acknowledgments provide the opportunity to connect with tribes and the rich history of their cultures. When we learn about the tribes that were originally from places across the United States we learn that they are still here. Today, Indigenous peoples are still taking care of the land for future generations to come.
The knowledge that has been passed down for generations in tribal communities is now being shared on TV and families are growing in their appreciation for the outdoors. In “Molly of Denali,” the characters model respect towards the land and what it provides for them. Molly and her friends often thank the plants that provide food and medicine. In addition to learning how to be respectful to nature, they learn about the lessons of the past from the elders in the community.
Materials
Directions
Do you know about the tribes who have taken care of the land and animals in the place where you live? Start by researching the local tribe with your family. On the Native Land Digital website, you can enter your zip code to find out the local tribe’s name. Once you find out who the Indigenous people are, search for more information to find out about how they have respected the land in their lives and past generations.
Encourage your child to create a poster to capture what they learn about the local tribe. For example, they can start their poster by writing the tribe’s name in big letters, big enough for the tribe’s name to be read from a distance.
Paint or color in the name of the tribe. Invite your child to continue adding to their poster by including designs that respectfully honor the people. The added designs could be like some of the traditional art of the people, a particular plant or animal from the location, or another image that reflects the culture.
Many people do not realize that Indigenous people are still alive today. Help spread the word that Native people are still here by sharing what you learn with your family and friends. Hang your poster in your home, classroom, or workplace.
Explore Further
As you and your child learn about the traditional people in your hometown, it may open up more questions and curiosity. Lean into those questions with your children by visiting the local tribal office. There are often unshared histories that are told within tribal communities that you will learn about. In some cases, the information you will find out may be difficult to understand, but it’s important to keep learning and remain open. When we learn about one another we gain a wealth of knowledge. The knowledge of Indigenous peoples has sustained life for thousands of years, not only for humans but for all.
Want more “Molly of Denali” activities? Make a Yup'ik Dance Fan or build an ice sculpture to continue the fun!
Author: 
Literacy