Abstract:
Amidst ongoing, contemporary colonialism, this article explores Indigenous pathways to
decolonization and resurgence with an emphasis on identifying everyday practices of renewal
and responsibility within native communities today. How are decolonization and resurgence
interrelated in struggles for Indigenous freedom? By drawing on several comparative examples
of resurgence from Cherokees in Kituwah, Lekwungen protection of camas, the Nishnaabekwewag
“Water Walkers” movement, and Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) revitalization of
kalo, this article provides some insights into contemporary decolonization movements. The
politics of distraction is operationalized here as a potential threat to Indigenous homelands,
cultures and communities, and the harmful aspects of the rights discourse, reconciliation, and
resource extraction are identified, discussed, and countered with Indigenous approaches centered
on responsibilities, resurgence and relationships. Overall, findings from this research offer
theoretical and applied understandings for regenerating Indigenous nationhood and restoring
sustainable relationships with Indigenous homelands.