Resources for learning
Much of our work is rooted in education.
Using the materials linked below, we invite you to explore and learn with a spirit of humility and curiosity. As Maya Angelou said, when you know better, you do better. This is an opportunity for you to grow, learn, and do better.
Start here:
- Truth and Reconciliation Commission 94 Calls to Action
- UNDRIP (United Nations Declaration for the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
- Indigenous Canada (Coursera): A free online course offered by the University of Alberta on Coursera that explores Indigenous history and culture in Canada.
Websites:
- Native Land: An interactive map that helps users learn about the Indigenous territories and languages in Canada and the US.
- National Indigenous History Month - Canada: Explore the Government of Canada's resources for National Indigenous History Month, which includes information on Indigenous history, culture, and achievements.
- The Assembly of First Nations: The official website of the Assembly of First Nations, representing First Nations in Canada and providing resources on Indigenous issues.
- Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC): NWAC is an organization dedicated to advancing the well-being of Indigenous women in Canada. Their website offers information on issues and resources.
Books:
- Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants: Written by Robin Wall Kimmerer, this book explores the intersections of science, spirituality, and Indigenous wisdom.
- The Inconvenient Indian: A Curious Account of Native People in North America: By Thomas King, this book offers a thought-provoking and humorous perspective on the relationship between Indigenous peoples and North America.
- The Truth About Stories: A Native Narrative: A thought-provoking book by Thomas King that explores the power of storytelling in Indigenous cultures.
- Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City: Written by Tanya Talaga, this book investigates the deaths of seven Indigenous students in Thunder Bay, shedding light on systemic issues.
Films:
- Smoke Signals (1998): A film directed by Chris Eyre, Smoke Signals is a coming-of-age story that explores contemporary Indigenous life in the US.
- Rhymes for Young Ghouls (2013): Directed by Jeff Barnaby, this Canadian film provides a powerful look at the intergenerational trauma experienced by Indigenous communities.
- "The Grizzlies" (2018): Directed by Miranda de Pencier. It is based on the true story of a youth lacrosse team formed in Kugluktuk, a small Inuit town in the Canadian Arctic. The film portrays the transformative power of sports and mentorship in the lives of Indigenous youth facing challenges in their community.
- "Indian Horse" (2017): Directed by Stephen S. Campanelli, based on the novel of the same name by Richard Wagamese. The story follows the life of Saul Indian Horse, a young Ojibwe boy who is taken from his family and forced into a residential school, where he discovers his extraordinary talent for ice hockey. The film explores themes of identity, resilience, and the impact of the residential school system on Indigenous communities in Canada.
- Kanehsatake: 270 Years of Resistance (1993): A documentary directed by Alanis Obomsawin, this film covers the Oka Crisis, a significant moment in Canadian Indigenous history.
- Rhymes for Young Ghouls (2013): Directed by Jeff Barnaby, this Canadian film provides a powerful look at the intergenerational trauma experienced by Indigenous communities.
Other Relevant Content:
- Reclaiming Native Truth: A comprehensive report and project aimed at dispelling myths and misconceptions about Native Americans in the United States.
- CBC Indigenous: A news website that covers stories and issues related to Indigenous communities in Canada.
- The Red Road Project: A photography project by Carlotta Cardana and Danielle SeeWalker that showcases contemporary Indigenous life and culture in the US.
- Reconciliation Canada: An organization working on reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada, offering educational resources and initiatives.
- National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation: The official website of the NCTR, which archives the history and legacy of the residential school system in Canada.
These resources provide a diverse range of perspectives and insights into the relationship between Canada and the US with Indigenous communities, and they are presented by Indigenous voices, artists, authors, and filmmakers. We welcome any feedback or important updates that you think need to be added/removed. We wish you an introspective, and eye opening journey into growth and learning.