Women sharing strength for all generations: Aboriginal birth knowledge & new media creation

This thesis explores the subject of Aboriginal birth knowledge from Wasauksing First Nation in Ontario. The intent is to document and generate positive representations of traditional birth knowledge in response to processes of colonization, which in the past have worked to silence them. Three Wasauksing mothers share their understandings of traditional birth knowledge and where the origins of their knowledges lie. A brief historical examination of Aboriginal birth knowledge and experience, and its relationship to colonization and colonial education are presented as part of a literature review. A short video documentary accompanies the thesis to best capture and convey the oral tradition and make the research findings more accessible for community members that might not otherwise engage with this discourse. The author approaches the work from her own personal standpoint: that of a Native woman from Wasauksing First Nation seeking information about her identity as a new mother.