Stars as Relatives: Indigenous Knowledge of the Sky

For many Indigenous peoples, the night sky is more than astronomy—it is relationship, memory, science, ceremony, navigation, governance and life lessons. This interactive workshop explores Indigenous star knowledge as a living system of knowledge that continues to guide communities today.

We will examine how Indigenous peoples observe celestial movements to guide migration, agriculture, hunting cycles, ceremony, timekeeping, and environmental stewardship long before Western scientific institutions documented the stars.

Together, participants will examine the differences between Western astronomy and Indigenous relational worldviews, and consider how star knowledge connects to identity, language, land, and cultural survival.

Grounded in respect, relationality, and responsibility, this workshop encourages participants to look at the night sky differently—not as something separate from us, but as part of an interconnected world where knowledge, identity, and responsibility are carried across generations through the stars.

About the Instructor:

Donna Chrisjohn proudly identifies as a citizen of the Sicangu Lakota Nation and a descendant of the Dine Nation. She is a Denver, Colorado native and a devoted mother of five children. With over 25 years of legal expertise spanning private, public, and tribal law, Donna has demonstrated her commitment to the legal profession.

In addition to her legal career, Donna is an accomplished Diversity and Inclusion consultant and presenter. Her dedication to making a positive impact is further evident through her active engagement in the Native community, both at the local and national levels. She generously volunteers her time and plays vital roles in multiple organizations.

Donna’s impressive affiliations include service as the former Co-Chair of the Denver American Indian Commission, the Chinook Fund’s Board of Directors, and the Board of Directors for People of the Sacred Land.

Education is more than a mere interest for Donna; it’s her life’s purpose. As an Indigenous Education Consultant, she has passionately conveyed the Indigenous perspective to schools and organizations for an astounding 46 years. Donna’s commitment to promoting understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures is exemplified by her teaching of an immersion course titled “Indigenous Voices,” which she offers each semester