Rooted in Ancestral Lands: Sharing the Knowledge Through Indigenous Storywork

This chapter argues that Indigenous pedagogies in early childhood education are critical to our collective understanding of the cultural, social, and ecological contexts shaping our shared world. Indigenous storywork is a way of reclaiming and asserting cultural identity, promoting self-determination, and countering colonial narratives. The authors share cultural and ancestral knowledge connected to place to engage in decolonization and transformative action in Indigenous Anishinaabe early childhood programmes. The stories in the chapter demonstrate the resilience, adaptability, and commitment of Indigenous communities to their traditions in the face of challenges as it highlights the value of community-based initiatives in preserving cultural practices and strengthening the community. The stories emphasize the critical role of formal and experiential education in fostering cultural identity, instilling values, and nurturing a sense of pride in Indigenous heritage. Recognizing and celebrating the diversity of land-based Indigenous practices can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of human and more-than-human experiences that make up our shared world to create a better future for generations to come.