Indigenous Canadian Relations

This course takes a decolonized approach to examining Canadian history and the relationship between Indigenous peoples, settlers, and the Canadian government from first contact to the present. Focusing on Indigenous perspectives, worldviews, and experiences, it highlights early cooperation and partnerships during the fur trade, the significance of the treaty-making era, and the profound impact of British and early Canadian colonial policies on Indigenous rights, communities, and identity. The course also analyzes the lasting effects of colonization and the ongoing efforts of Indigenous peoples to heal from harm, reclaim their rights, and restore their culture in contemporary Canada. Finally, the course highlights Indigenous resilience, resistance, and resurgence in shaping modern society, deepening understanding of the historical and current dynamics between Indigenous peoples and Canada. This insight is crucial for engaging with the ongoing process of truth and reconciliation in Canada today.

In this course, students are engaged in an examination of Indigenous cosmology(s), knowledge(s), and world view(s) as they intertwine with the land. By centering the influence of the land on Indigenous worldviews, and through a self-reflective process, we aim to cultivate a holistic understanding of contemporary perspectives on identity, self-determination, and worldviews. This course will examine Indigenous narratives, oral traditions, language, culture, and storytelling traditions, including the relationships between human beings, the land, and spiritual dimensions. By inviting reflection and introspection, students will gain insights into the complexities of their own cultural backgrounds and their relationships with the land.

In this course, an intrapersonal and interpersonal approach to explore and apply strategies for decolonization from an Indigenized perspective has been adopted. The aim of this course is to develop the capacity to move forward individually and collectively toward a future that embraces improved communication, relational space, and community building. This course will also examine the impacts of colonization on individuals, communities, and workplaces while incorporating Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing.

In this course, students will engage in the exploration of key social challenges that impact Indigenous peoples in Canada. The curriculum embraces an Indigenized perspective by interweaving Indigenous knowledge, perspectives, and lived experiences. Emphasis will be placed on analysis of prevention and intervention strategies, while respecting the distinctive spiritual customs and traditions of the Indigenous populations.

This course introduces learners to the diverse histories, cultures, and contemporary realities of Métis peoples across Turtle Island (North America). While grounding students in the origins and development of Métis communities in what is now Ontario, the course expands its lens to include the rich diversity of Métis experiences across the ‘Motherland’. Students will explore themes of Métis identity, nationhood, governance, resistance, resurgence, and cultural expression through historical and contemporary sources. The course will include oral histories, Indigenous literature, art, and guest presentations from Knowledge Keepers and community leaders. By the end of the course, students will gain a deeper understanding of how Métis communities have shaped and continue to shape Turtle Island, asserting their rights, preserving their cultures, and contributing to the broader Indigenous landscape.

This course will increase knowledge and awareness of important issues in the Aboriginal cultures of Canada. The legal status of Aboriginal people will be explored along with Aboriginal rights and self- determination. Other critical issues relating to land claims, justice and social services will be studied. This course includes mandatory group work. We recommend viewing the course schedule immediately upon logging into the course to view course and group work requirements.

This online course centers Anishinaabe Gikendaasowin - Anishinaabe Knowledge - by using Anishinaabe songs and stories to support learners in their journey of understanding fundamental concepts in relation to language revitalization and resurgence. The course begins by inquiring into the history of Anishinaabemowin (the Ojibwe language) and forming a beginner`s comprehension of introductory language skills in Anishinaabemowin. Learners will explore their role in maintaining the Anishinaabe stories and songs shared throughout the course. Learners will also build the capacity to engage with knowledge keepers and elders to support the ongoing resurgence of Anishinaabemowin within their respective fields.

In this course, students will gain an understanding of the historical factors that contributed to the creation of Residential Schools, including the history of colonization and the relationship between the government and Indigenous communities. Students will reflect upon and further develop their understanding of the ongoing impact of Residential Schools.