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Applying Foundational Knowledge About First Nations, Métis and Inuit

Walking Together: Education for Reconciliation

This series of workshops is designed to help teachers better understand First Nations, Métis and Inuit histories, cultures and worldviews. This background will help teachers not only ensure that Aboriginal students succeed in school and meet the prescribed learning outcomes, but also deal with prejudice and discrimination. It is strongly recommended that these workshops be taken in sequence and—because changing pedagogical practice takes time—over a period of several months.

Applying Foundational Knowledge About First Nations, Métis and Inuit Through Workshops And Resources Brochure 


Braiding Indigenous Stories through Our History – Collective Memories of Forced Assimilation

Participants will engage in an exploration of historical implications of forced assimilation within Canada through storytelling. 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 are contrasted with examples of resiliency. Participants will gain a better understanding of historical and contemporary realities of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit and learn about initiatives that contribute towards reconciliation.

 

Indigenous Alberta: The Footsteps of Our Ancestors

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. Participants will explore common myths and misconceptions and engage in a brief historical timeline.

 

Indigenous Ways of Knowing: Walking in our Footsteps

This workshop is designed to be an introduction to some basic First Nation, Métis and Inuit worldviews, cultural beliefs and values. It is neither a comprehensive nor 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, Métis and Inuit peoples 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, 7or 8.

 

The History and Legacy of Residential Schools (Eng/Fr)

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 that is explored in this workshop. Participants will leave honouring the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action and make a professional and personal commitment to action.

 

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