As We Have Always Done

As We Have Always Done presents an Indigenous approach to resisting colonial domination through Nishnaabeg knowledge, practices, and ways of being. Simpson draws from her experiences as a Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg scholar and writer to examine Indigenous resistance movements and radical resurgence. The book connects traditional Nishnaabeg intelligence and teachings to contemporary Indigenous activism and political organizing. Through stories and analysis, Simpson demonstrates how Indigenous knowledge systems offer alternatives to capitalist and colonial structures. Simpson explores land-based practices, Indigenous governance, gender and sexuality, and relationships with the natural world through a Nishnaabeg lens. She examines specific resistance movements like Idle No More while grounding her discussion in Indigenous intellectual traditions. This work challenges readers to consider how Indigenous ways of knowing and being can transform approaches to politics, education, and environmental justice. The text presents Indigenous intelligence as a framework for understanding both historical resistance and future possibilities.

Readers appreciate Simpson's radical perspective on Indigenous resistance and her critique of colonialism through Nishnaabeg teachings. Many note the book's academic rigor while remaining grounded in lived experience and traditional knowledge. Readers highlight: - Clear connections between theory and practice - Fresh insights on Indigenous resurgence - Strong examples from Nishnaabeg culture - Personal stories that illustrate concepts Common criticisms: - Dense academic language makes it inaccessible to some - Repetitive points in certain chapters - Limited practical solutions offered "The theoretical framework is complex but worth working through" - Goodreads reviewer "Changed how I think about resistance" - Amazon reviewer "Sometimes gets lost in academic jargon" - Goodreads reviewer Ratings: Goodreads: 4.39/5 (500+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (100+ ratings) The book resonates most with academic readers and those already engaged in Indigenous activism and decolonial work.

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🍁 Leanne Betasamosake Simpson drew from her experiences as a member of the Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg people to illuminate Indigenous ways of knowing and being that existed long before colonization. 📚 The book's title challenges the common colonial phrase "This is how we've always done it" by reclaiming ancestral Indigenous practices as the true "always done" ways. 🌿 Simpson introduces the concept of "radical resurgence," which advocates for Indigenous people to reject colonial systems entirely rather than seek recognition within them. 🗣️ The author incorporates Nishnaabeg stories, teachings, and language throughout the text, demonstrating how traditional knowledge systems remain vital and relevant in contemporary times. 🎓 The book emerged from Simpson's work as both an academic and an artist, blending scholarly research with poetry, storytelling, and personal narrative to create a unique form of Indigenous theory.