Active learning ideas
This topic investigates contemporary social and economic issues facing Indigenous communities, such as housing shortages, lack of clean drinking water, and the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG). Students examine how these issues are not isolated problems but the result of systemic racism and the long-term impacts of colonial policies. The Ontario curriculum encourages students to look at the root causes and the ways communities are working to find solutions.
Activity 01
Small groups research why specific First Nations have been under long-term boil water advisories. They investigate the roles of federal funding, infrastructure challenges, and environmental factors, then propose a 'Path to a Solution' poster.
Why do many Indigenous communities lack access to clean drinking water?
Activity 02
Students view a series of infographics and art pieces (like the REDress Project) related to the MMIWG crisis. They use a guided reflection sheet to identify the systemic factors, such as poverty and policing, that contribute to the high rates of violence.
What are the root causes of the MMIWG crisis?
Activity 03
Students examine data comparing economic outcomes on and off-reserve. They pair up to discuss how factors like the 'permit system' in the Indian Act historically hindered economic growth and how that legacy continues today.
How are communities working to overcome economic disparities?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Indigenous people get 'everything for free' from the government.
Indigenous communities often face significant underfunding in essential services like education and child welfare compared to non-Indigenous communities. Collaborative investigations into federal funding gaps help students see the reality of the 'fiscal gap'.
The MMIWG crisis is just a 'criminal' issue.
The National Inquiry found that the crisis is the result of systemic human rights violations and a legacy of colonization. Using gallery walks of the Inquiry's findings helps students see the social and political roots of the violence.
Methods used in this brief
Environmental Stewardship and Resource Development
Explore the tension between resource development projects and Indigenous environmental stewardship and land rights.
8 methodologies
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC)
Study the findings of the TRC and the 94 Calls to Action aimed at healing the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians.
8 methodologies
Indigenous Resurgence and Futures
Celebrate the contemporary resurgence of Indigenous cultures, arts, leadership, and youth movements shaping the future.
8 methodologies