In November, known as Gashkaadino Giizis, or the Freezing Over Moon, in Anishinaabemowin, Winona LaDuke reflects on the delicate balance of life and death that comes with the winter season in the North. She warns against the invincibility mindset that often leads to risky behavior on icy roads and thin ice, urging for moderation and self-regulation.
LaDuke highlights the negative impact of certain technologies, such as Teflon and carbon emissions, emphasizing the need to reevaluate our reliance on technology as a solution to all problems. She criticizes projects like Project Tundra, which claims to capture carbon but may not be as effective as initially thought.
Instead, LaDuke suggests considering natural solutions like hemp, which has the potential to sequester carbon effectively. She emphasizes the importance of avoiding reckless actions that lead to environmental harm, arguing that no amount of technology or intervention can completely undo the damage.
As an Ojibwe writer and economist, Winona LaDuke encourages a mindful approach to living in harmony with nature, especially during the winter months. She advocates for responsible practices, such as leaving no trace while ice fishing, and reminds readers that no one is invincible in the face of nature’s power.
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