Wasáse: Indigenous Pathways of Action and Freedom

by Taiaiake Alfred

Overview

The word Wasáse is the Kanienkeha (Mohawk) word for the ancient war dance ceremony of unity, strength, and commitment to action. The author notes, "This book traces the journey of those Indigenous people who have found a way to transcend the colonial identities which are the legacy of our history and live as Onkwehonwe, original people. It is dialogue and reflection on the process of transcending colonialism in a personal and collective sense: making meaningful change in our lives and transforming society by recreating our personalities, regenerating our cultures, and surging against forces that keep us bound to our colonial past."

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781442606708
Publisher:	University of Toronto Press
Publication date:	08/01/2005
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	320
File size:	770 KB

About the Author

Taiaiake Alfred is from Kahnawáke in the Mohawk Nation. He is a scholar and journalist known for his passionate and incisive views on politics, a respected orator, and a trusted advisor to many First Nations governments and community organizations. He holds a Ph.D. from Cornell University and is a Professor in the University of Victoria's Indigenous Governance Programs. Taiaiake is the author of two previous books, Heeding the Voices of Our Ancestors and Peace, Power, Righteousness.

Table of Contents

Foreword

Acknowledgements

First Words

Rebellion of the Truth

Paths of Least Resistance
The Ethics of Courage
Regardless of the Consequences
Sacred Protectors

Colonial Stains on our Existence

Imperial Arrogances
The Other Side of Fear
Spaces We Occupy
My Grandmother, She Raised Me Up Again

Indigenous Resurgence

Liberatory Fantasies
The Great Law of Change
Old Roots Into the Earth
Vigilant Consciousness

Glossary

Bibliography

Index