National Indigenous

Month Celebration @
Ontario Science Centre
Juna Corazon Poblacio -202204796
Loida Decasa Pelecia - 202300210
Rochelle Abara Layugan- 202203836
Elma Marie Sambola- 202300402
Marichelle Samson Caimol – 202203668
June 08, 2024
1. What were the most impactful presentations or
activities your group participated in? Why?
On June 8, 2024, we visited the Ontario Science Centre to celebrate
Indigenous Month, spending most of our time in the planetarium for "The
Celestial Bear: The Six Nations' Night Sky." This show reimagines the Ursa
Major constellation, known as the Big Dipper, through an Indigenous legend
where the stars form a bear chased by several brothers and their dog. The
show was created by Mohawk scholar Tom Deer with visuals by David Moses
and a script by Professor Rick Monture, the show explores how Indigenous
cultures also saw a bear in the same stars seen by European astronomers. It
highlights the bear's symbolism of strength, family, vitality, courage, and
independence, offering a profound cultural perspective on the night sky.
2. How did the event enhance your group’s
understanding of the Indigenous ways of knowing
and living?
The "Celestial Bear" show resonates strongly with present-day living by highlighting
the enduring relevance of Indigenous knowledge and perspectives. In today's world,
where there is a growing recognition of the importance of diverse ways of
understanding the environment and cosmos, events like these serve as a reminder of
the richness and depth of Indigenous cultures. They prompt us to consider how
ancient wisdom can inform contemporary challenges such as sustainability, biodiversity
conservation, and cultural revitalization. By appreciating Indigenous ways of knowing,
we not only enrich our understanding of the natural world but also foster a more
inclusive and respectful society that values diverse knowledge systems. The event
encourages ongoing dialogue and collaboration between different communities,
promoting mutual understanding and collective efforts towards a more harmonious
coexistence with our environment.
3. What did your group learn about the contributions of
the Indigenous Community to Science, Arts, and Culture?
Our group learned extensively about the significant contributions of the Indigenous
community to science, art, and culture. We discovered sophisticated Indigenous
understandings of astronomy and the natural world, intertwined with cultural
narratives. The interpretation of constellations like Ursa Major (the Big Dipper) as a
bear reflects deep astronomical observations passed down through generations. We
also gained an appreciation for Indigenous artistic expression, particularly through
dance and visual arts, which serve as both aesthetic expressions and mediums to
convey complex cultural narratives and cosmological beliefs. Moreover, we explored the
impact of different personalities, such as Indigenous scholars Tom Deer and Rick
Monture, who have made profound contributions to preserving and promoting
Indigenous knowledge and heritage. Their efforts highlighted the resilience and
ongoing vitality of Indigenous cultures in today's world.
4. How did the event change or reinforce your
group’s perceptions of Indigenous Cultures and
Histories?
The event profoundly changed and reinforced our group's perceptions of
Indigenous cultures and histories. It challenged stereotypes by showcasing
the depth of Indigenous knowledge in astronomy and storytelling. Learning
about the interpretation of constellations from Indigenous perspectives
enriched our understanding of the intersection of culture and science. The
event also highlighted the resilience and vitality of Indigenous cultural
practices, emphasizing their ongoing relevance in contemporary society. It
inspired a deeper appreciation for Indigenous contributions and a
commitment to supporting their cultural preservation efforts.
 Echoed of Ancestral Resilience
The Great Bear guards cosmic
expanse, Tales of bravery in life's
dance, "Echoes of the Ancestors"
speak, Generations' wisdom we
seek.
Resilience, connection, spiritual
fire, and Ancestors' voices inspire,
In nature's embrace, they aspire,
Their legacy, our heart's desire.

Stars that guide with gentle

grace. Roots that bind, trees that
sigh, In the silence, spirits fly.
 Reference
Ontario Science Centre, 770 Don Mills
Road, Toronto ON M3C 1T3