“All My Relations”: Elders’ Teachings Grounding a Decolonial Bachelor of Nursing Program Philosophy

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to share the process of developing a decolonial nursing program philosophical framework. Following cultural protocol, we asked two highly respected local Indigenous Knowledge Holders and retired nurses to serve as Presiding Elders for the Bachelor of Nursing (BN) Curriculum Redesign Committee. Select committee members engaged with the Elders in a series of gatherings. Elders gifted “All My Relations” as the unifying basis for their teachings of “The Four Realms” and “Ani to Pisi -Spiderweb” as the new BN program philosophical framework: local Indigenous teachings provide the standpoint for respectfully engaging with interconnected multiple worldviews to advance equity and restore wellness in nursing education. Collaboration with Elders provides an invaluable opportunity for decolonization in nursing workplaces and learning spaces.