Rooted in Land, Connected in Spirit: Belonging Through Indigenous Worldviews

Belonging is a fundamental human experience, yet its meaning and expression vary across cultures. In Indigenous worldviews, belonging is deeply rooted in relationships—with the land, community, and spirit—forming the foundation of identity, resilience, and well-being.

This session will explore Indigenous concepts of belonging, contrasting them with Western individualistic paradigms. Through discussions on land as identity, interconnectedness with all living beings, and the resilience of Indigenous peoples in the face of colonization, participants will gain insight into the depth of relational belonging. Drawing on Indigenous ways of knowing, personal narratives, and community perspectives, the session will highlight the contemporary relevance of these understandings in climate action, reconciliation, and mental health.

By centering Indigenous perspectives, this session invites cross-cultural learning and dialogue, fostering a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of relational belonging in a globalized world.