Culturally Framing Aboriginal Literacy and Learning

Abstract

This article examines the importance of literacy as expressed from an Aboriginal perspective as a way of life-based on a holistic worldview. In this article wholistic refers to the spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical aspects of human beings and our relationship to the Creator and the environment. It is from this wholistic perspective that as an Aboriginal researcher I examine Aboriginal literacy conceptual frameworks that integrate culturally appropriate ways. Models of developing ways to incorporate traditional Aboriginal knowledge and methodologies into the learning situations of Aboriginal learners are held up here to counter the assimilation process that continues to be detrimental to Aboriginal societies. Although this particular article is concerned specifically with community Aboriginal literacy programs functioning in an English-language setting, Aboriginal practitioners in Aboriginal literacy programs in Ontario incorporate broader goals concerned with safeguarding and reclaiming Aboriginal languages and culture rather than promoting assimilation.