People of the Dawn: Ways of the Abenaki

People of the Dawn: Ways of the Abenaki

This workshop creates a picture of Abenaki culture (past and present) using stories; artifacts; an imaginary visit to an Abenaki village; discussion of Abenaki culture, beliefs and seasonal life cycle; and a review of available teaching resources. The practical and common questions about Abenaki culture are emphasized: How and where did they live? What did they eat? What was it like growing up in an Abenaki community one thousand years ago? What did they believe in? Where do the Abenakis live now? What is the present state of Abenaki culture in their homeland, Ndakinna? Participants share in the imaginative process of storytelling and are introduced to how stories, songs, chants and dances can be used to explore other cultures. Ideas for activities and resources help students draw from Native wisdom when developing a sense of place and living sustainably with the natural world. Participants are immersed in a rich context that they can draw from when teaching about Native cultures and environments, past and present.

Based in part on the book by Michael J. Caduto, A Time Before New Hampshire: The Story of a Land and Native Peoples (Brandeis University Press/Chicago University Press).

“Your sensitivity and diversity of presentation styles was appreciated. Your commitment was moving.” — Students, College of the Atlantic, Bar Harbor, Maine