Rematriation and Environmental Justice
The environmental justice aspect of land-back and rematriation is closely tied to the Indigenous peoples’ historical and contemporary role as stewards of the land. Indigenous-centered land stewardship practices emphasize sustainability, ecological conservation, and biodiversity preservation. The deep knowledge that Indigenous communities possess about their environments positions them as key contributors to addressing pressing environmental challenges. Indigenous land stewardship is often rooted in a profound understanding … Continue reading Rematriation and Environmental Justice
Mason Family Bible Pages
I visited the National Archives last month and was able to see Lafayette Mason’s Civil War pension file in person. Although I have a copy of the bible pages, I had not before seen the actual pages that were torn from my ancestors’ bible for the pension application. I took photos (lots of photos) of the two pages and here they are below- Beautiful, aren’t … Continue reading Mason Family Bible Pages
Creating an Herb-Infused Oil
Infused oils are easy to make and can be used to make many things including salves, lotions, and lip balms. Follow along with me to make rose infused oil. In six weeks, when the oil is ready, we will use it to make the best body butter ever. Ingredients Dried rose petals – You can dry them yourself from flowers not sprayed with pesticides or … Continue reading Creating an Herb-Infused Oil
For Partners and Allies in Rematriation
Collaborative partnerships between Indigenous communities, non-Indigenous allies, and governmental or non-governmental organizations are important for advancing the land-back and rematriation movements. These partnerships can offer a framework for shared responsibilities, resources, and expertise, contributing to the success and sustainability of land-return initiatives in several ways. Collaborative partnerships can enable the pooling of resources, both financial and technical. Non-Indigenous allies and organizations can provide funding, legal … Continue reading For Partners and Allies in Rematriation
Our Homelands & Our Healing
The land-back and rematriation movements go beyond the physical return of territory; they carry immeasurable implications for healing, reconciliation, and the restoration of NIpmuc community’s cultural identity. Returning land to Indigenous peoples can be a complex process that addresses historical trauma, revitalizes traditional knowledge, and fosters a sense of empowerment and autonomy for the people. Land is central to our cultural identity as Nipmuc people. … Continue reading Our Homelands & Our Healing
Land-Back
Land-Back – An Historical Context Land-back is the act of returning land to Indigenous peoples. Returning land can be by direct gift, purchase, or any other form of giving the land title to the original people that occupied the space. Land-back returns physical and political control to the original peoples. It also provides the opportunity to educate the public about tribal stewardship based on traditional … Continue reading Land-Back
Some of my Favorite Teas
I love teas made from medicinal herbs. Some of the mixtures I love to drink are a little crazy with multiple plants helping me with multiple issues. But for other humans, I tend to use less variety in the mix, focusing not solely on symptoms but also the person’s general health and needs. But I also have some blends that I distribute to folks on … Continue reading Some of my Favorite Teas
Cheryll Toney Holley 