One question that emerged in many of my presentations this past month was, how can my students see Indigenous peoples as something other than victims? In response, I suggest highlighting the resilience and resistance of Indigenous peoples, especially young people, and bringing their stories into the classroom.
Part non-fiction novel, part scrapbook, Shannen and the Dream for a School, tells the true story of Shannen Koostachin (Mushkegowuk/Swampy Cree - Attawapiskat First Nation) one of the young people who fought for a new school in her home First Nation.
The book includes recent and historical images of Shannen and her family, related newspaper clippings, a timeline and a historical section at the back.
Questions to Consider
- How can my students come to see Indigenous peoples as more than victims or people to be pitied?
- Where are opportunities to focus on Indigenous resistance and resilience?