Abstract
Housing shortages, mould-infested buildings and contaminated drinking water are just a few issues faced by people on many of Canada’s First Nations reserves. These are the stories the public continuously hears in the media and, while they are important, they can also cause harm. By only publishing negative stories, the news media reduce these communities and these people to a set of stereotypes. This kind of coverage also eliminates or discourages the idea that there are tangible solutions to recurring problems. This thesis project will do the opposite. Instead of simply highlighting housing problems on First Nations reserves, it will tell the story of one effort to solve them. It will be a solutions-focused piece, a story of empowerment and a story of people changing their communities at a grassroots level. Ultimately, it’s the story of finding a home. My thesis will explore the issue of housing shortages on reserves in Canada; focusing specifically on how First Nations communities are addressing the issue while choosing to live sustainably in a modern context. The journalistic portion of the project will follow the story of a Mi’kmaq woman from Prince Edward Island who is building an alternative home inspired by something called an Earthship. It is an environmentally sustainable, off-grid house made mostly from recycled materials. Some opting to build these houses say the design principles of Earthships are consistent with many traditions in First Nations spirituality, which make them an attractive housing alternative for reserves. The literature review will provide a comprehensive overview of problems and solutions surrounding First Nations housing. It will examine three main subject areas: the logistics and politics of First Nations housing; a history of sustainable housing and the implementation of Earthships on reserves; and the connection between that kind of housing, First Nations spirituality and environmentalism.