"it was your ancestors that put them there and they put them there for you" : exploring indigenous connection to mazinaabikiniganan as land-based education
abstract
this study explored indigenous connections to mazinaabikiniganan (more commonly known as
rock art or pictographs) and investigated how these sites contribute to land-based education.
focused on the community of batchewana first nation and their relationship to the
mazinaabikinigan of agawa rock located within lake superior provincial park, this study used
snowball sampling to identify six knowledgeable community members who shared their stories,
knowledge, and understanding of the mazinaabikiniganan as well as other sites of significance
within their traditional territory. using storywork and conversation as method, data was gathered
through conversations held with community members rather than formal interviews. the stories
collected indicate that mazinaabikiniganan must be understood from within a larger frame of
reference, emphasizing the importance of geographical, political, and historical context.
additionally, stories showed the ceremonial and spiritual significance of place, affirmed
aboriginal rights and sovereignty within traditional territory, and highlighted the importance of
life-long learning and decolonizing education. the thesis weaves together the findings and
discussion to provide a cohesive picture of how the community values and perceives this site and
concludes with recommendations on the pedagogic potential of mazinaabikiniganan on a broader
scale.