Knowledge of Scedagi/Water Through Place-Based Experiences

Abstract

“Water sustains, flows between, within, and replenishes us. Water is the blood of Mother Earth and, as such, cleanses not only herself but all living things. Water comes in many forms and is needed for Mother Earth’s and our health.” Indigenous Nations believe that Water is sacred. Water is needed for life to thrive on our planet, but it is quickly being used, dried up, and polluted. Many Indigenous Nations are fighting to regain or continue to have rights to the Water running through their lands. For the Akimel O’odham, meaning “River People,” and the Xalychidom Piipaash, or “People who live toward the water,” this story is too familiar. The O’odham people were once a flourishing nation that had developed a complex irrigation system that sustained their livelihood in the desert. However, once the US acquired Arizona in 1853, the waterways that flowed freely through the state were dammed up and rerouted to more populated parts. Which left the O’odham and Piipash with their life source depleted. They were forced to give up their agricultural lifestyle and were given government food rations that included flour, sugar, salt, and lard. This piece of history is vital to remember for the O’odham people. Their ancestors were master engineers and built water systems that allowed them to survive in the deadly heat of the desert. These resilient people dared to live in one of the harshest environments and thrived. I want my children to know that this strength runs through their blood.