The word Wasáse is the Kanienkeha (Mohawk) word for the ancient war dance ceremony of unity, strength, and commitment to action. The author notes, "This book traces the journey of those Indigenous people who have found a way to transcend the colonial identities which are the legacy of our history and live as Onkwehonwe, original people. It is dialogue and reflection on the process of transcending colonialism in a personal and collective sense: making meaningful change in our lives and transforming society by recreating our personalities, regenerating our cultures, and surging against forces that keep us bound to our colonial past."

Taiaiake Alfred is a Kahnawà:ke Mohawk philosopher and political strategist with more than three decades of experience in First Nations governance, political activism, and cultural restoration. After twenty-five years as a university professor, he now works directly with Indigenous nations to help breathe life into their visions of self-determination. He has been awarded a Canada Research Chair, a National Aboriginal Achievement/Indspire Award, and the Native American Journalists Association award for best column writing. He is the author of three highly acclaimed books: Heeding the Voices of Our Ancestors: Kahnawake Mohawk Politics and the Rise of Native Nationalism; Peace, Power, Righteousness: An Indigenous Manifesto; and Wasáse: Indigenous Pathways of Action and Freedom.

Taiaiake Alfred's profile page

Wasáse: Indigenous Pathways of Action and Freedom

Alfred speaks emotionally of the restitution of Aboriginal rights rather than reconciliation goals. He promotes autonomy rather than dependent forms of self-governing. The book discusses making consequential change in Aboriginal lives both personally and collectively. Dialogues are made about north and south indigenous people working together drawing two continents into mutual understanding, assisting and caring about each other. The recurring theme is breaking away from the colonial past that has bound indigenous people for centuries and creating a future with a regenerated culture. This insightful, academic book includes a glossary and extensive chapter notes.

Alfred is Professor of Indigenous Governance Programs at the University of Victoria and author of Heeding the Voices of Our Ancestors.