For Our Home

It is no secret that the colonial worldview was characterized by both ethnocentrism and anthropocentrism.  This perspective posited that all other entities—whether human life, wildlife, or natural resources—were exclusively for colonial use, overlooking their intrinsic value and deeming them expendable.

This led to devastating consequences for First Nations People, including linguistic and cultural erosion, and loss of life.  Similarly, even the smallest of creatures, like butterflies, were not spared from the effects of this anthropocentric worldview. 

The Monarch Butterfly, for instance, was classified as an endangered species in July 2022 by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature.  The Xerces Society, a non-profit organization committed to the preservation of invertebrates and their habitats, reported that, "In 2020, volunteers counted fewer than 2,000 monarchs, a number that represents less than 0.01% of their historical population size.”  

Monarch butterflies have a unique relationship with milkweed plants, laying their eggs exclusively on them.  Native Milkweed provides essential nourishment and protection for their caterpillars, guarding them against parasites.  As adult Monarchs migrate through Canada, the United States, and Mexico, consider planting these native flowers and shrubs to provide nectar and support these beautiful creatures during their arduous journey.