g

n
i
s
i
R
a
m
a
k
Ya
Cree Dueker

b
o
c
a
J
e
l
l
e
h
c
Mi

n
o
i
t
a
z
i
n
o
l
o
c
e
D
Healing and
I use Waziyatawin and Michael Yellow Birds definition of
decolonization, the intelligent, calculated, and active
resistance to the forces of colonialism that perpetuate the
subjugation and/or exploitation of our minds, bodies, and
lands, and . . . is engaged for the ultimate purpose of
overturning the colonial structure and realizing Indigenous
liberation (Wilson and Yellow Bird 2005, 5).

The Soul Wound

The soul wound is an important concept for decolonizing
work because it accurately explains that the root cause of
many social problems can be traced back to historical and
ongoing forms of settler colonial violence. Therefore,
problems such as poverty, poor health, interpersonal
violence, and substance abuse must be addressed within a
framework that examines the long-term effects of
colonialism. In so doing, scholars can actually avoid
psychologizing Native peoples as problems.

Case Studies
Wapato Indian Club - Dance
Northwest Indian Language Institute - Language
Xwayamam Ishch - Food

b
u
l
C
n
a
i
d
n
I
o
t
a
Wap

For many Natives dancing is not just an expression of identity; it is also a form of
worship, healing, and celebration. Teaching ones children to dance assures the
continuation of tribal culture and kinship ties, and attending powwows, stomps, and
other dances is one way to socialize and celebrate community (Mihesuah 2003, 154).

e
t
u
t
i
t
s
n
I
e
g
a
u
g
n
a
L
n
a
i
d
n
I
t
s
Northwe

)
t
s
e
N
s
e
l
g
a
E
n
e
d
l
o
G
(
h
c
i
h
s
I
i
m
a
Xwayam

e
g
n
a
h
C
l
a
i
c
o
S
Healing and
The struggle for liberation was never only for the present
generation, but to ensure a lasting intergenerational
impact that would ultimately help to restore healthy
indigenous communities. Indigenous youth were often
specifically mentioned as a primary motivator for young
adults and elders involved in social change efforts, as
activists worried whether the youth would have
knowledge of their tribal language, traditional foods, and
dances.