Mother Earth

Mother Earth is the planet and its natural forces.

In Anishinabek News

• May 2015: She is considered the embodiment of the Great Spirit Manitou. The Anishinaabe believe they have a responsibility to care for the land in return for what it provides. The article describes the destruction of the land as a divorce from a life-partner.
• August 2015: Indigenous peoples recognized the influences of her rhythms to understand the cycles of life and death. The Medicine Wheel teachings emphasize that all things on earth are related like a family.
• July 2016: The drum is said to represent the heartbeat of this entity. The drum speaks to the connections humans have with this entity.
• March 2017: Patrick Madahbee stated that First Nations have a responsibility and honour to care for the planet. The Anishinabek Nation views the protection of the land and water as a duty to the environment.
• June 2020: River Sagon dances for the healing of Mother Earth to maintain a sense of connection.
• August 2021: According to Anishinaabe Law, the Creator placed people on Mother Earth along with the gift of spirituality. The Anishinaabe were given the responsibility to look after the fire, water, earth, and wind found on Mother Earth.
• September 2021: Reg Niganobe stated that safe harvesting practices help uphold strong connections to the earth. Harvesters are encouraged to honour the gifts she provides by following traditional protocols like bringing tobacco.
• September 2025: Speakers at the gathering emphasized that she would continue to care for her children as long as she is honored. Betty Maracle stated that people should never stop giving thanksgiving to her for all she provides.
• April 2026: Mother Earth is described as facing abuse and exploitation from pollution and resource extraction. Indigenous cultures maintain a deep respect for the forces of Mother Earth, including earth, air, fire, and water. The author calls for the defense of all life on the planet, including animal species, oceans, and rivers.