Themes

The four key concepts (or themes) of the course.

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Unsettling

Students learn about the concept of unsettling peoples across Canada. Unsettling is the process of laying claim to lands that were already occupied and claiming to have “discovered” them. It would take more than an entire course to talk about colonization of every First Nation in Canada so this course focuses on some of the broad patterns.

Unsettling is the process through which ”settlers” took land and resources away from the First Nations of Canada. It took place across the world from the late 15th century into the 20th century.

Resistance

Students learn about examples of Indigenous Peoples and other groups resisting the aggressive policies, changes and norms imposed by settlers. These examples focus mainly on First Nations, such as Louis Riel and Kanesatake/Oka, but also include events such as early labour resistance (Winnipeg General Strike) and environmental politics (environmental protests).

Resilience

Students learn of past and present examples of First Nations resilience in the face of colonization. This theme focuses on First Nations' ability to recover from decades of theft of their land, subjugation under the Indian Act, and continuing indignities. Course content covers First Nations' returns to tradition, knowledge, and beliefs. Their ability to cope with setbacks and look forward to create their own positive future, often under their own autonomous governement.

Mapping

Students are introduced to maps as a tool of power and colonialism. Mapping is framed as one of means by which minority groups have been disenfranchised and controlled, such as Canada's First Nations, minority immigrant groups, Métis, and French settlers.

Department of Geography