Adaptation

Indigenous communities are superb at adapting to changing environments. From changing weather patterns throughout time, to imposed genocide and colonialism, Indigenous peoples have maintained their cultures and languages. We know that, scientifically, diversity is important. This continent is nothing but diverse: Indigenous cultures and languages are unique to each community. Despite immense pressure from colonialism, when Westerners intended to assimilate Indigenous peoples, our cultures and languages have been passed down through the generations. We have managed to adapt our societies to the larger Western society, while still remaining true to our traditional practices and values. 

The trout quillbox is a symbol for the continuance of traditional forms of art, and is also an example of Indigenous adaptation. Pre-contact, boxes such as these would, presumably, be either spiritual in nature, or practical. With the arrival of Western peoples, a new economic system was introduced wherein Indigenous peoples had to find some way to survive through it. Art forms such as this box were often sold as souvenirs and were often collected by non-Natives. Adaptation is a necessity for communities who rely on the Earth and her constantly-changing environments, and has kept us and our cultures alive throughout the centuries.