This study, conducted within the Atikamekw Nehirowisiw community of Wemotaci (Québec, Canada), explored the central role of the blueberry (minic) in the culture and identity of this Indigenous people, focusing on the transmission of botanical knowledge, particularly among women. Using a collaborative qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews revealed that minic is an identity marker and a vector of values such as respect, reciprocity, and sharing, contributing to the well-being of the community, the people, and the land. It is a source of healthy food, eaten raw or processed as osekwan minic (blueberry paste), and it contributes to local economic development. The results confirm the status of minic as a cultural keystone species. Reduced access to blueberry patches has been experienced around Wemotaci, due to overharvesting with hand rakes (by both Indigenous and non-Indigenous pickers) and large-scale forest logging. Atikamekw Nehirowiskwewok (women) play a key role in passing on values, knowledge, and practices aiming to preserve the land and their culture. Their contribution to the self-determination of their people must be recognized.
Pelletier et al. (Wed,) studied this question.