Dene Laws
- Tonya Moreau-Betsaka
- Sep 17, 2023
- 2 min read
These stories are only being shared as a teaching to understand where our history has brought us forward to today. What I am sharing is what has been shared with me as oral history. Fact checks can be stated by simular knowledge to the band office site's and museum's related to indigenous history.
Dene Laws - Dehcho First Nations
The Dene of the Dehcho have always lived according to the Dene Laws. They are an important part of the Dene History and traditions.
Share What You Have
His is the umbrella law; under it sits alo the other laws. It was of absolute importance that people share what they had long ago, just for survival. Share all that big game you kill. Share fish if you catch more than you need for yourself and there are others who don't have any.
Help Each Other
Help elders cut their wood and other heavy work. Help sick people who are in need; get them firewood if they need it, cisit them and give them food. When you lose someone in death, share your sorrows with the relatives who are affected by the loss. Help out widows as much as possible and take care of orphaned children.
Love Each Other As Much As Possible
Treat eacu other as brother and sister: as though you are related. Help each other and don't harm anyone.
Be respect of Elders and Everyone Around You
Don't run around when elders are eating. Sit down until they are finished.
Sleep at Night and Work During the Day
Don't run around and laugh loudly when it gets dark. Everyone should sleep when daekness falls.
Be Polite and Do Not Argue with Anyone
Don't harm anyone with your voice and actions. Don't hurt anyone with your medicine power. Don't show your anger.
Young Girls and Boys Should Behave Respectfully
Don't make fun of each other; especially in matters of sex. Don't make fun of older men and women. Be polite to each other.
Pass on the Teachings.
Elders are to tell stories about the past everyday. In this way, young people learn to distinguish between good and unacceptable behavior who will keep the circle of life going.
Be Happy at All Times
The creator has given you a great gift - Mother Earth. Take care of her and she will always give you food and shelter. Don't worry - just go about your work and make the best of everything. Don't judge people; find something good in everyone.
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