Negotiating Ecological Relations Amongst Inclusive Heathens

Abstract

An investigation of Winterfinding, a harvest feast, as conducted by Vindisir Kindred, a small group of contemporary Heathens in southwestern Ontario, shows how the development of ecological conscience is involved in ritual practices that negotiate meaning and environmental values. Ritual practices such as this that include animal sacrifice can embody an ecological conscience through physical practices that embed tacit learning of how to relate with others, human and otherwise. Ritual feasting and practices of making offerings in this community of contemporary Heathens is in the process of negotiating ecological relations. Participating in such practices can contribute to the formation a pro-environmental disposition and orientation, although what this means for participants continues to evolve.