The Alberta Teachers’ Association

This workshop will examine core causes of intergenerational trauma, challenge common myths and misconceptions, as well as explore activities to foster effective relationships with First Nations, Métis and Inuit students, families and community. Participants will explore assimilation strategies that have contributed to many current realities of Indigenous students, families and community. You will gain an increased understanding of physical, mental, social and spiritual impacts, and strength-based initiatives to contribute to the advancement of the reconciliation process.

This session will support educators in using resources that accurately reflect and demonstrate the strength and diversity of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. You will learn about culturally responsive resources to increase your capacity in foundational knowledge about First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. In addition, you will leave with tools to consider for critically reviewing First Nations, Métis, and Inuit resources for classroom and professional use.

This introductory workshop will explore historical and contemporary information and resources relating to numbered treaties within present-day Alberta. Educators will build their understanding of the acknowledgement of land and people, as well as our shared responsibilities to the land and each other. Participants will engage in dialogue and reflect on their professional learning in order to build capacity in treaty education.

Indigenous Content in the new Teaching Quality Standard:  Moving from Inspiring to Requiring 

The new Teaching Quality Standard requires all teachers to demonstrate foundational knowledge about First Nations, Metis and Inuit for the benefit of all students. Where should you start!? In this session, you will be introduced to short, interactive activities designed to enhance your understanding of reconciliation, resources specifically produced to build your competence and confidence; and ideas about the many paths you can pursue on your future professional Indigenous Education learning journey.

Participants will engage in an exploration through storytelling of the historical implications of forced assimilation within Canada. The perspectives of First Nations, Métis , Inuit and the Crown are woven throughout this participatory workshop, providing a deeper understanding of the impacts of policies and legislation, and contrasted with examples of resiliency. Participants will gain a better understanding of the historical and contemporary realities of First Nations, Métis and Inuit and learn about initiatives that contribute to reconciliation.

This workshop will introduce participants to the rich indigenous cultural and linguistic diversity of Alberta. Topics will include terminology related to identity, recognition of territory, significant ancestral landscapes related to locations of celebrations and traditions that come to life through song and dance, addressing myths and misconceptions, and a brief historical timeline.

This workshop is designed to be an introduction to some basic First Nation, Metis and Inuit worldviews, cultural beliefs and values. It is neither a comprehensive nor an exhaustive exploration of indigenous ways of knowing, but rather a series of focused conversation starters for groups of educators engaged in reconciliation. Worldviews and ways of knowing are like stones thrown into the water from which other circles grow. Participants will gain an understanding and appreciation of First Nations, Metis and Inuit people by learning about diverse, traditional and contemporary experiences unique to them.

The Blanket Exercise

The Blanket Exercise is a participatory workshop in which educators will experience over 500 years of history by taking on the roles of indigenous peoples in Canada. Standing on blankets that represent the land, they will walk through time and explore the impacts of colonization, treaty-making and modern legislation. The Blanket Exercise is concluded by a facilitated debriefing in which participants have the opportunity to discuss the experience as a group. By engaging participants on an emotional and intellectual level, this workshop is a powerful tool for increasing empathy and understanding. Available for Treaty 6, 7 or 8.

The History and Legacy of Residential Schools

This workshop examines the history, impacts and legacy of residential schools, including the effects of intergenerational trauma. Educators will be trained on the tools, resources and strategies that contribute to the development of mutually respectful relations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians. Participants will leave honouring the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action and make a professional and personal commitment to action.

Histoire et séquelles du régime de pensionnats
Cet atelier examine l’histoire, les repercussions et les séquelles du régime de pensionnats, y compris les effets des traumatismes intergénérationnels. Les enseignants y obtiendront des outils, ressources et strategies pouvant contribuer au développement de relations fondées sur le resect mutual entre Canadiens autochtones et non autochtones. À la fin de l’atelier, les participants seront prêts à honorer les appels à l’action de la Commission de vérité et reconciliation en plus d’être determines à agir, tant sur le plan professionnel que personnel. 

Indigenous Linguistic Diversity and Revitalization
(PD-WT-16l 2018 12, 4pp) - Download a Copy 

• Métis Nation of Alberta
• Residential Schools--Inuit Experience

Land Acknowledgements Bookmark
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Reconnaissance des territoires, Traités nos 6, 7 et 8
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Land Acknowledgements Poster
Treaty 6 (Eng/ Fr) - Download a Copy 
Treaty 7 (Eng/ Fr) - Download a Copy
Treaty 8 (Eng/ Fr) - Download a Copy