Little Ancestors 18 oz. Signature Mug Designed by Artist Jackie Traverse

“Little Ancestors” 18 oz. Signature Mug Designed by Artist Jackie Traverse   Authentic Indigenous Art Artist: Jackie Traverse Cultural Background: Anishinabe, Lake St. Martin First Nation   In many Indigenous cultures, the term little ancestors is a profound and somber term used to refer to the thousands of Indigenous children who died while attending residential schools and never made it home to their communities. The term honors their memory and acknowledges their rightful place among the esteemed ancestors, despite their young age at the time of death. Key aspects of this meaning include: Honoring the deceased: The use of “ancestors” for children recognizes their spiritual significance and acknowledges that their lives were unjustly cut short by the residential school system. Acknowledging historical truth: The term is often used in the context of Truth and Reconciliation, serving as a reminder of the dark history and ongoing legacy of residential schools and other colonial policies designed to assimilate Indigenous peoples and disrupt their family structures. Spiritual connection: In Indigenous worldviews, ancestors are often considered integral, active members of the community and the spirit world, offering guidance and a source of strength. Referring to the children as little ancestors integrates them into this relational model of ancestry, ensuring they are not forgotten and are connected to the living community members and future generations. Promoting healing and justice: Honoring these children as little ancestors is a part of the healing process for survivors and communities, as they fight for justice and the return of their loved ones’ remains to their home communities. The term is also used in a broader cultural context to refer to the “little people” in some Indigenous folklore, who are powerful spirit beings that live along riverbanks, in caves, or in forests. These “little people” are respected figures, sometimes seen as tricksters, but the specific term “little ancestors” is primarily used in reference to the residential school children. This unique Little Ancestors Signature Mug features Authentic Indigenous Art by artist Jackie Traverse With the artist’s signature on the inside of mug Fine China Mugs are 18 oz. (560ml) capacity Individually boxed for protection The artist’s biography on the back of the box The indigenous artist’s name, tribal affiliation, and title of the design appear on the box   Jackie Traverse’s beautiful artwork can be found in many different products, such as Art Cards, Art Prints, Mugs, Bags, Journals and more!   AUTHENTIC INDIGENOUS PRODUCT: Each Signature Mug features authentic indigenous art and the artists or copyright holders are paid a royalty on each sale CAPACITY: Mugs are 18oz. (560ml) MATERIALS: Made of fine china, Ink DIMENSIONS: Item Size: 14 x 10.5 x 11.5 cm Item Weight: 425g Box Size: 15 x 12 x 13 cm Box Weight: 530g CARE: Dishwasher and microwave safe DELIVERY: Items in stock will be shipped as soon as possible Backordered Items may take 3 – 4 weeks to ship out Designed in Canada   These Signature Mug Products are available in over 70 additional designs by various Artists For more information about Indigenous Artist Jackie Traverse   A Great way to support Indigenous Artists!