THE “Doctrine of Discovery, Stolen Lands, Strong Hearts” is a challenging, truthful documentary. It is meant to educate people on the Doctrine and create an awareness of its legacy. We offer this study guide in hopes that it will allow for those watching an opportunity to discuss, ask questions and reflect.
It
is recommended that
the video be viewed
in its entirety (67
minutes)
and then broken down
into discussion,
reflection by the
chapters, one or
two at a time. You may
want to add prayer or
think of scripture
that speaks to the
concerns that are
raised by
the documentary. We
have provided some
suggested passages and
questions
for study at the end
of this guide, should
scripture be part of
your
custom. The message is
important and will
give understanding to
the
current state of
Indigenous affairs on
Turtle Island or North
America. Understanding
the Doctrine of
Discovery and its
manifestations
are important as we
strive for
reconciliation. If
appropriate, open and
close with prayer.
Smudging may also be
appropriate depending
on the
customs of the
community.
As is our custom, we ask you to sit in a circle, or around a table and live with these guidelines:
We live and breathe in a sacred circle of trust, hope and love. In the Sacred Circle we will honour the Seven Traditional Teachings: Love, Truth, Honesty, Bravery, Wisdom, Humility and Respect. The Circle will conduct their deliberations in a circle using the Seven Guiding Principles to Create and Sustain the Circular Model of Leadership:
- SACRED SPACE: Where spirituality is fully present, a place where the Holy Spirit guides who we are and who we are called to become. Sacred space will be created using culturally appropriate ceremony.
- SHARED LEADERSHIP: Each person is equally valued for themselves and equally shares the power within the community. Decisions are made by consensus and all information and resources are shared. Individual talents, skills and gifts are recognized and empowered.
- VISION: When we dream it together, then it happens. A shared vision, owned and articulated by everyone, guarantees excellence in leadership.
- NORMS: Standards of behavior agreed upon by the group. Norms are constantly reviewed and updated.
- ACCOUNTABILITY: To the vision, to shared leadership, and to all tasks. “First among equals” means there is an elected or designated chair of the Circle who relates to other interested parties. This person(s) is empowered by the Circle to act on its behalf, honouring the consensus model of decision making.
- PRAYER AND CEREMONY are important to sustain the spirituality of self and the Circle.
- CREATIVITY: Comes from the Creator and resides within everyone. The Creator gives everyone the power and authority to carry out the vision. The creative arts – graphic art, writing prose/poetry, music and dance, drumming and singing, drawing, drama, and meditation are examples of creative energy that give life to the Circle.