At Butternut Creek Nature Reserve, we recognize that caring for the land requires more than one way of knowing. While a Western scientific perspective, based on observation, analysis, and classification, can help us examine and understand the working of ecosystems, it has also precipated the exploitation and devastation of vast parts of the planet. With the guidance of Alyse Leonard-Rogers, a Métis environmentalist with a background in Ecosystem Management, we are learning about the Mi’kmaw principle of Etuaptmumk, or Two-Eyed Seeing, a concept shared by Elder Albert Marshall. Alyse’s weekly posts will show us how to view the world through both Indigenous and Western lenses—valuing the strengths of each and understanding that they are more powerful when brought together.
In the words of Alyse, Two-Eyed Seeing can be thought of as braiding knowledges, like sweetgrass: one strand represents Indigenous knowledges, one represents Western science, and a third creates ethical space for both to co-exist and inform each other. When braided, these knowledges support deeper understanding, more thoughtful decision-making, and stronger relationships with the land.
As we face the emergency of potentially catastrophic climate change, Two-Eyed Seeing helps us to examine the knowledge systems that we privilege and to question the values and actions we often take for granted:
• Which knowledge systems are being prioritized and why?
• Who is included or excluded and how are the narratives of power constructed to justify these delineations?
• What histories and relationships are we upholding?
• How can we create space for diverse knowledges to inform our actions?
“Solutions for climate change cannot happen without a paradigm change.”
—Steven Newcomb
At Butternut Creek, we hope that Alyse’s posts on Two-Eyed Seeing will initiate reflection on our own values and actions and help begin that paradigm shift. By holding space for both Indigenous and Western worldviews, we can move forward with greater respect, reciprocity, and care for the Earth and all beings who depend on her. We’re committed to walking this path—honouring diverse knowledges, fostering relationship with the land, and building a future rooted in respect, reciprocity, and care.
