First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Studies · Grade 10 · Contemporary Issues and Reconciliation · 4.º Período

Indigenous Resurgence and Futures

Celebrate the contemporary resurgence of Indigenous cultures, arts, leadership, and youth movements shaping the future.

TL;DR:This final topic celebrates the contemporary resurgence of Indigenous cultures, arts, and leadership. Students explore how Indigenous youth, artists, and activists are shaping the future of Canada through movements like 'Idle No More' and the revitalization of traditional practices. The Ontario curriculum highlights the contributions of modern Indigenous figures in various fields, from literature and music to science and politics.

• Ontario Curriculum Expectations
• E2.1 Highlight contributions of contemporary Indigenous leaders and artists
• E3.1 Describe the concept of Indigenous resurgence and its societal impacts

About This Topic

This final topic celebrates the contemporary resurgence of Indigenous cultures, arts, and leadership. Students explore how Indigenous youth, artists, and activists are shaping the future of Canada through movements like 'Idle No More' and the revitalization of traditional practices. The Ontario curriculum highlights the contributions of modern Indigenous figures in various fields, from literature and music to science and politics.

By focusing on resurgence, students move away from seeing Indigenous peoples through a lens of 'victimhood' and instead recognize their power, creativity, and vision. This unit emphasizes Indigenous joy and the bright future of these nations. This topic comes alive when students can explore contemporary media and engage in peer teaching about the leaders and movements that inspire them.

Key Questions

1. How are Indigenous youth leading cultural resurgence?
2. What impact do contemporary Indigenous artists and leaders have on Canadian society?
3. How can we support Indigenous futures?

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Indigenous culture is something that belongs in a museum.

What to Teach Instead

Indigenous culture is vibrant, modern, and constantly evolving. Peer teaching about contemporary leaders helps students see that Indigenous people are at the forefront of modern innovation and social change.

Common Misconception

Indigenous resurgence is only for Indigenous people.

What to Teach Instead

While resurgence is led by Indigenous communities, it benefits all of society by offering new ways of thinking about justice, environment, and community. Gallery walks of modern art help students see the universal themes and the value of Indigenous perspectives for everyone.

Active Learning Ideas

Peer Teaching

Indigenous Trailblazers

Each student researches a contemporary Indigenous leader, artist, or scientist (e.g., Autumn Peltier, Jeremy Dutcher, Cindy Blackstock). They create a one-minute 'pitch' to teach their peers about this person's impact and vision for the future.

45 min·Individual

Gallery Walk

The Art of Resurgence

The classroom is transformed into a gallery of modern Indigenous art, music videos, and poetry. Students rotate and use 'sticky note' feedback to identify themes of pride, resistance, and hope in the works.

40 min·Small Groups

Inquiry Circle

Youth-Led Movements

Small groups research a youth-led movement, such as the 'Reclaim the Name' initiative or climate activism. They create a social media campaign plan (on paper) that explains the movement's goals and how others can get involved.

50 min·Small Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'Indigenous Resurgence' mean?

Resurgence is about Indigenous people reclaiming their languages, cultures, and governance systems on their own terms. It is a move away from reacting to colonial policies and toward a focus on internal community healing and cultural strength.

Who are some contemporary Indigenous authors I should know?

There are many incredible voices, including Cherie Dimaline (The Marrow Thieves), Richard Wagamese (Indian Horse), and Joshua Whitehead (Jonny Appleseed). These authors use storytelling to explore themes of identity, history, and the future from an Indigenous perspective.

How can active learning help students understand Indigenous resurgence?

Active learning strategies like peer teaching allow students to discover the incredible diversity of modern Indigenous leadership for themselves. Instead of a teacher-led lecture, students become the experts on contemporary figures. This hands-on exploration of modern media and activism makes the concept of resurgence feel real, energetic, and relevant to their own lives as young people.

What was the 'Idle No More' movement?

Started in 2012 by four women in Saskatchewan, Idle No More became a massive grassroots movement. It focused on Indigenous sovereignty and environmental protection, using social media and flash-mob round dances to raise awareness and protest legislation that threatened treaty rights.