The article highlights the deep cultural, ecological, and spiritual significance of water for Indigenous communities in Canada, particularly for Indigenous women, who maintain a sacred connection to water through their role as life-givers. In the Canadian context, colonization—through forced displacement, residential schools, and the banning of native languages—has led to a rupture in the continuity of cultural practices surrounding water custodianship. This disrupted intergenerational transfer of knowledge about water has resulted in a loss of traditional practices and the diminishing role of Indigenous women in water governance. In response, Indigenous women across Canada are advocating for the restoration of their traditional roles in water governance. The article offers a framework to help Indigenous women reclaim their influence over water governance, emphasizing the integration of their cultural knowledge and responsibilities as foundational elements for developing sustainable and equitable water governance practices.
