Directions: After reading through the Iroquois legend of creation, answer the following questions using the evidence-citing strategy, I.C.E. (Identify/Cite/Explain). Answers should forever and always be developed in complete sentences.
Building off of your response to question one (the female gender had a significant impact on the creation of the world. Firstly, it states, "The woman thought she would create a being like herself." This citation shows that the female gender played a central role in deciding to create another being. Additionally, it is mentioned, "The woman sat near the water, still thinking." This citation demonstrates that the female gender was actively involved in the process of creation, as she was deep in thought as she sat near the water.), define why the notion of “equality” was likely to exist among Indigenous Peoples and equate that to their commonly-held notion of “gender fluidity”
The notion of "equality" was likely to exist among Indigenous Peoples because they believed in the concept of "gender fluidity." In the Iroquois legend of creation, it is evident that the female gender had a significant impact on the creation of the world. The woman in the legend thought she would create a being like herself, indicating that she saw her own qualities and abilities as valuable and worthy of replication. This suggests that the Indigenous Peoples recognized the inherent worth and capabilities of both genders, without assigning one gender a higher status than the other.
Furthermore, the woman in the legend is described as actively involved in the process of creation. She is shown to be deep in thought as she sat near the water, emphasizing her role as a conscious participant in the act of creation. This suggests that the Indigenous Peoples valued the contributions and perspectives of both genders, recognizing that each had unique insights and abilities to contribute to the world.
The concept of "gender fluidity" among Indigenous Peoples likely contributed to the existence of equality. By acknowledging that gender is not fixed or rigid, but rather can be fluid and ever-changing, the Indigenous Peoples recognized that individuals should not be judged or limited based on their gender. This understanding of gender allowed for a more inclusive and equitable society, where individuals were valued for their individual characteristics and contributions rather than being confined by societal expectations based on their gender.
Therefore, the notion of "equality" likely existed among Indigenous Peoples because they embraced the concept of "gender fluidity" and recognized the value and abilities of both genders, as demonstrated in the Iroquois legend of creation.
The notion of "equality" likely existed among Indigenous Peoples because their commonly-held notion of "gender fluidity" supported a balanced and inclusive worldview. Firstly, the Iroquois legend of creation suggests that the female gender had a significant impact on the creation of the world. It states, "The woman thought she would create a being like herself." This citation shows that the female gender played a central role in deciding to create another being. This implies that the Iroquois people recognized the importance and equality of both genders in the creative process.
Furthermore, the legend mentions that "The woman sat near the water, still thinking." This citation demonstrates that the female gender was actively involved in the process of creation, as she was deep in thought as she sat near the water. This suggests that the Iroquois people valued the thoughts and contributions of both genders, and that decision-making and creative processes were inclusive and collaborative.
Based on these citations and explanations, it can be inferred that the notion of "equality" likely existed among Indigenous Peoples because they recognized the significance and contributions of both genders in the creation of the world. This recognition of gender equality aligns with their commonly-held notion of "gender fluidity," which implies a fluidity and interchangeability of gender roles and attributes. In Indigenous cultures, there might have been a belief that individuals could possess qualities traditionally associated with both genders, and that these qualities were valued and respected equally. This understanding of gender fluidity would have contributed to a broader sense of equality and inclusivity among Indigenous Peoples.
To answer this question using the evidence-citing strategy, I.C.E. (Identify/Cite/Explain), we can look for evidence in the Iroquois legend of creation that supports the notion of "equality" among Indigenous Peoples and their commonly-held notion of "gender fluidity."
Identify: In the Iroquois legend of creation, there are several elements that suggest the existence of equality among Indigenous Peoples and a notion of gender fluidity.
Cite: For example, the legend states, "The woman thought she would create a being like herself." This citation indicates that the woman, representing the female gender, wished to create an entity similar to herself, suggesting a sense of equality in their creative power. Additionally, the legend mentions, "The woman sat near the water, still thinking." This citation highlights the active involvement and thoughtful consideration of the female gender in the process of creation.
Explain: Based on the evidence cited, we can infer that the notion of "equality" was likely to exist among Indigenous Peoples for a few reasons. Firstly, the fact that the woman wanted to create a being like herself implies a belief in the value and equality of both genders. This suggests that Indigenous Peoples recognized the importance and equal contributions of both male and female genders. Secondly, the female gender's active involvement and deep contemplation in the creation process further support the notion of equality and agency among Indigenous Peoples. The fact that the woman was at the forefront of the creative process indicates that gender roles may have been more fluid and equally respected within their society.
Therefore, the evidence from the Iroquois legend of creation suggests that the Indigenous Peoples likely believed in the concept of "equality" and upheld a commonly-held notion of "gender fluidity," valuing the contributions and agency of both genders.