The Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (FSAA) are seeking an individual who can bring an Indigenous perspective to interpreting the heritage and ecology of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (RSBBAA) and George Genereux Urban Regional Park (GGURP). This role involves editing existing stories or adding new ones to support the creation of a self-guided GPS interpretive app aimed at providing educational and cultural context for park users. The app will be used by families, health and wellness enthusiasts, classrooms, and nature lovers, enhancing the visitor experience by sharing the Indigenous and Métis history and traditional knowledge of the lands.
The goal of this project is to offer an opportunity for cross-cultural learning and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people regarding perspectives on the land. The app will include virtual markers at significant locations through the 426 acres of the two afforestation areas. The interpretive stories will explore Indigenous connections to the land, and traditional ecological knowledge (TEK). This work will be an important step toward supporting reconciliation and furthering the understanding of Indigenous worldviews and traditions.
Responsibilities:
• Edit and/or contribute stories from an Indigenous or Métis perspective, focusing on the cultural, ecological, and historical aspects of the afforestation areas.
• Ensure content reflects an accurate, respectful approach to Indigenous cultural traditions, which may include for instance seasonal movements and the circle of life.
• Focus on connecting Indigenous ecological practices with contemporary conservation methods and health and wellness.
• Provide written documentation of stories and interpretations in a clear, respectful, and engaging format.
Categories of Stories: The stories that are to be shared in the app will be drawn from several key categories, which may include the following concepts, for example:
• History & Heritage: Stories that reflect the deep and longstanding connections between Indigenous people and the land, sharing significant cultural and historical events.
• Traditional Occupations: These stories will highlight occupations rooted in an intimate knowledge of the land, environment, and natural resources.
• Flora and Fauna: This includes stories about plants, trees, mushrooms, and animals that are significant to the local Indigenous cultures, particularly regarding medicinal and spiritual uses, as well as ecological stewardship.
• Birdwatching and Insects: Indigenous perspectives on local wildlife, including birds and insects, will be explored, including their cultural significance, role in ecosystems, and relationships with the land.
• Geology & Natural Resources: Stories about the geology of the land, including Indigenous perspectives on how the land and its resources were used and cared for.
• Arts & Creativity: Stories that highlight Indigenous art, crafts, and creativity as expressions of the relationship with the land, utilizing natural materials and connecting to traditions of visual storytelling shared in a self guided tour setting.
• Environmental Protection & Stewardship: Indigenous philosophies of land care, sustainability, and environmental protection, including how natural resources were traditionally managed and how these practices can inspire modern conservation efforts.
• Biophilia & a Love of Nature: The Indigenous connection to the land and nature, fostering a deep respect and love for the environment as fundamental to community well-being and cultural identity.
How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas, Attention: GPS Interpretive App Team. In the cover letter and/or resume, applicants are encouraged to self-identify as Indigenous from Treaty 6 territory (Nehiyawak Cree, Nakawē Saulteaux, Yankton and Yanktonai Nakota peoples), Métis, or from other Indigenous communities.
The Friends of the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area are committed to honoring the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action. Since this Afforestation Area is situated in historically significant and culturally sacred territory, we believe that including Indigenous knowledge and languages can foster reconciliation to bridge the relationship between Indigenous people and settler communities. Call to Action 53 references public education programs, and in promoting this space to all people, we aim to include Indigenous guidance and knowledge in descriptions of the afforestation areas and wetlands. Call to Action 14 emphasizes the revitalization and preservation of Indigenous languages. To this end, stories include translations of the trees, plants, wildlife and shrubs native to these territories. This land and those species have often been named in ways that reflect only the settler experience. By including Indigenous names and ways of knowing, we help create a more complete and inclusive history of interpretation in the two afforestation areas. Note: We invite applicants to self-identify as Indigenous and will prioritize candidates with a strong connection to Treaty 6 territory. We look forward to receiving your application and working together to bring Indigenous perspectives to our interpretive efforts.
Visit our website friendsareas.ca to learn more and apply today: friendsafforestation@gmail.com
It is preferred that you are a citizen of Saskatoon.
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