From The Constitution of the Iroquois Nation
In all of your deliberations in the Confederate Council, in your efforts at law making, in all your official acts, self interest shall be cast into oblivion. Cast not over your shoulder behind you the warnings of the nephews and nieces should they chide you for any error or wrong you may do, but return to the way of the Great Law which is just and right. Look and listen for the welfare of the whole people and have always in view not only the present but also the coming generations, even those whose faces are yet beneath the surface of the ground – the unborn of the future Nation.
In the bioregion of Salmon Nation, there is a rich heritage and modern day presence of diverse indigenous cultures. Seeking to engage and more deeply understand Native perspectives, David Hall, Ph.D. of Portland State University conducted a series of interviews with contemporary Native leaders on the subject of sustainability, in terms of:
- the meaning of “sustainability”
- visions for a sustainable future for their communities
- how to get there
Visit Native Perspectives on Sustainability on EarthSayers.tv and the Website, Voices from Salmon Nation.
Ruth Ann Barrett, Sustainability Advocate, February 15, 2012, Portland, Oregon
Republished 2/26 with correct photo of David Hall.