Niipáitapiiyssin: How Blackfeet Ways of Knowing Impact Identity and Well-Being

Author

Mikalen Running Fisher, University of Montana, MissoulaFollow

Year of Award

2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

Master of Arts (MA)

Degree Name

Interdisciplinary Studies

Department or School/College

Interdisciplinary Studies

Committee Chair

Kelly Dixon

Committee Co-chair

Wade Davies, Dannii Yarbrough

Commitee Members

Kelly Dixon, Wade Davies, Dannii Yarbrough

Keywords

Blackfoot, Blackfeet, Identity, Well-being, Language, Artifacts, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, History, Culture

Subject Categories

Cultural History | Indigenous Studies | Native American Studies | Other Languages, Societies, and Cultures

Abstract

This thesis explores the vital role of history, traditional knowledge, traditional ecological knowledge, artifacts, and language in shaping the identity and well-being of Indigenous communities. It emphasizes how these components are vital for the survival and growth of Indigenous cultures. Using the Blackfoot Confederacy as a case study, the research highlights the significance of these elements in maintaining cultural continuity and resilience. The analysis is grounded in literature authored from an Indigenous perspective, ensuring an authentic representation of the values and insights inherent in these communities. This work aims to bridge existing gaps in the literature by demonstrating the profound impact these cultural foundations have on the identity and well-being of Indigenous people. To address the scarcity of resources on this topic and its relation to identity and well-being, the thesis provides an Indigenous-centered history of the Blackfoot people. Evidence compiled illustrates the importance of history, traditional knowledge, and language in identity formation and health and well-being. Previous research indicates that individuals more connected to their culture—through language, historical understanding, interaction with cultural objects, and traditional ecological knowledge—exhibit better health, lower suicide rates, and feel more secure about their Indigenous identity. It is through our research that we hope this thesis serve as an example and guide for others struggling with identity loss as a result of colonization and assimilation tactics and to empower Indigenous individuals and communities.

Recommended Citation

Running Fisher, Mikalen, "Niipáitapiiyssin: How Blackfeet Ways of Knowing Impact Identity and Well-Being" (2024). Graduate Student Theses, Dissertations, & Professional Papers. 12370.
https://scholarworks.umt.edu/etd/12370