Talking about it is one thing, but where do we even begin?
Nadine Wyczolkowski, Staff Writer
With staggering statistics showcasing realities too often relegated by other themes, Indigenous Issues in Education should garner a more prominent place in class and staffroom discussions alike.
Eliminating stereotypes through lessons is the starting point to engage these conversations.
You can start by spreading awareness about the inequalities of access to education, the challenges of starting post-secondary education, but above all, the retention of traditional language that affects a large number of Indigenous persons.
Some subjects directly lend themselves to the discussion of Aboriginal history while it is seemingly more difficult for other subjects to include this information. By opening and encouraging a dialogue with students through inclusivity of ideas and a deeper understanding of contexts, ignorance will shift to a more holistic understanding of the challenges that are faced by Indigenous persons, often resultant of historical patterns. These discussions will open ways in which students and educators can become positive actors in a resolution to make positive change.
See below for some examples on how to integrate information and research in the classroom:
- Art: unique sculpture/painting.
- Science: traditional/natural forms of medicine.
- Religion: rich religious traditions, among others.
- Geography: Reservations, remote areas, respect for wilderness.
- Law: the Indian Act, domestic violence.
- World Issues: missing persons.
- History: contributions to society, residential schooling.
- Sociology of Sport: traditional customs of self-sufficiency.
- Dance: meaning and importance of traditional dances.
