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6. INDIGENOUS PEOPLES AND THE LAND Historically, Indigenous peoples have been responsible stewards, or protectors, of the natural environment. Long before “sustainability” was a buzzword, Indigenous peoples showed a deep respect for the land and its plants and animals in an effort to ensure that all life was honoured and preserved for the future. • Research the history of Indigenous peoples in your region and their ways of viewing the natural world. Begin by reading “Indigenous Peoples” on The Canadian Encyclopedia . • Identify three to five historical practices relating to the use or extraction of natural resources by Indigenous peoples in your region. How have these activities changed over time? To what extent are they still practised? • Write a short reflection on what you have learned about different approaches to natural resources in the past, in the present, and how you think we should approach this issue in the future. 7. ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES — Public Service Announcement Canada has an incredibly diverse natural environment, which Horizon features and celebrates. However, with climate change, increased urbanization, and a host of other challenges, our natural world is being threatened. • Working individually or in pairs, choose one of the following environmental issues and research it on The Canadian Encyclopedia . Take notes that address the following questions: What are the environmental impacts of your selected topic? What effect does it have on Canadians today and what problems might develop in the future? Consider the different — and perhaps conflicting — opinions that might exist around the issue and the possible solutions. What can be or is already being done to address the environmental threat? » » Air Pollution

ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITY:

Consider inviting a local elder into your school to learn more about Indigenous concepts of stewardship. Reach out to a local Friendship or Community Centre.

Aurora Borealis (courtesy SESQUI, Inc.)

» » Water Pollution » » Climate Change

Close-up of Inukshuk Inuksuk landmark near Arviat, Nunavut (Dreamstime.com/ Sophia Granchinho/ 84196581)

» » Endangered Animals » » Endangered Plants

» » Forestry » » Oil Sands » » Agriculture and Food » » History of Commercial Fisheries

• Create a public service announcement (PSA) to inspire fellow Canadian citizens to take action on the issue you’ve chosen. Your PSA may take the form of a television or radio commercial, billboard, newspaper advertisement, or transit poster.

Consider the following questions: » » What? (Outline the problem) » » So what? (Explain why we need to care) » » Now what? (Suggest what actions should be taken)

Tree Planting (courtesy SESQUI, Inc.)

Blooming canola field (Dreamstime.com/Aivoges/27396718)

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