Course Information

This course will examine various concepts and themes relevant to Indigenous peoples in Canada and globally. The course will begin by exploring what constitutes Indigeneity/ Indigenous identity, and the effect that colonialism had on Indigenous people and their ways of life. Historical and contemporary issues in Canada and other countries will be examined. Topics such as Indigenous knowledge, and their relationship to the natural world, the importance of oral traditions, and world views will be explored. We will also analyze forms of colonial oppression such as the Indian Act, treaties, residential schools, health and educational issues and conflicts. Post colonial issues such as land claims settlement, selfgovernment, social movements such as Idle No More and various environmental and social issues that Indigenous peoples are facing will also be reviewed. The course will conclude with a discussion on contemporary revitalization and preservation methods employed by Indigenous peoples around the world and government responses. This method of inquiry will afford the opportunity to compare the challenges and aspirations faced by diverse Indigenous communities.