“For Native people, ‘seeking life’ was the all-encompassing task. While there were tribal specialists with particular knowledge of technologies and ritual, each member of the tribe in his or her own capacity was a scientist, an artist, a storyteller and a participant in the great web of life.” — Gregory Cajete, Native Science: Natural Laws of Interdependence

Our show has been created with the support, wisdom and guidance of many collaborators and advisors — we’re all committed to promoting Indigenous science and supporting our youth! Core concepts that make Aboriginal science distinct from Western perspective science include a focus on all things being in a state of flux (never fixed or unchanging), observational learning, cooperative and team learning, and the idea that everything, including science, has a story. We have defined our content, based on our consultation, research and our own understanding of Indigenous knowledge systems.

Coyote Science is guided by many core Indigenous principles, including:

1. We seek to strengthen Indigenous ways of knowing, education and research.
2. We respect Indigenous spiritual beliefs, culture and languages.
3. We work to promote the well-being and education of Indigenous children and youth.
4. We seek to protect and advocate Indigenous cultural and intellectual property and promote the advancement of traditional Indigenous knowledge.
5. To be respectful and cognizant that Indigenous knowledge is tied to “Place” and cultural specificity and histories.
6. We work to help Indigenous families, communities and Nations to develop meaningful Indigenous science education.
7. We acknowledge that there are many Indigenous Nations, languages, ways of living and knowledge systems, and each are distinct and sovereign.
8. Celebrate Aboriginal science as a viable field of study that has a place in the contemporary practice of science, engineering and mathematics.
9. Introduce Aboriginal youth to scientists in their community who can inspire them, encourage a love of the sciences, and teach them to appreciate indigenous world views and approaches.