The future generations not yet born
The Future Generations Not Yet Born
The future generations not yet born are recognized within Tsm’syen law as holders of inherent interest in the continuation of life, land, and responsibility. Law is oriented not only toward present needs, but toward ensuring that those who come after inherit functioning relationships, intact territories, and the knowledge required to maintain balance.
Future generations are understood to be affected by decisions made today. Actions that damage lands, waters, animals, names, or systems of responsibility are recognized as harms that extend beyond the present and disrupt continuity. Ayaawk therefore requires foresight, restraint, and care in order to prevent irreversible imbalance.
Responsibility to future generations is carried through stewardship rather than ownership. Names, crests, wilp obligations, and teachings are held temporarily by the living and must be passed on without depletion or distortion. Each generation is accountable for how well it prepares the next to receive and carry these responsibilities.
The wellbeing of future generations is confirmed through outcomes observed over time. When lands remain productive, waters remain healthy, names remain strong, and responsibilities continue to be upheld, continuity is maintained. When future capacity is diminished, law recognizes this as a failure of responsibility in the present.
Ayaawk affirms the presence of future generations by guiding conduct toward long-term balance rather than short-term gain. In this way, law remains active across time, connecting ancestors, the living, and those not yet born through shared responsibility.