Active learning ideas
Allyship is an active, consistent practice of unlearning and re-evaluating one's own power and privilege to support Indigenous sovereignty. This topic explores what it means to be a 'treaty person' and how non-Indigenous individuals can move beyond performative gestures to meaningful action. Students will examine the difference between being a 'savior' and being an 'ally,' focusing on the importance of listening and taking direction from Indigenous leadership. This aligns with Ontario's NAC1O goals of developing social responsibility and understanding one's place within the treaty relationship.
Activity 01
Students are given scenarios where they encounter a stereotype or misinformation about Indigenous peoples (e.g., at a family dinner or on social media). They practice using 'calling in' techniques to correct the information respectfully and effectively, focusing on being an active ally.
What does it mean that 'we are all treaty people'?
Activity 02
In small groups, students research the specific treaty that covers the land their school is built on. They identify the original signatories, the promises made, and one way their school community can better honor that treaty today, presenting their ideas as a 'Treaty Recognition' plan.
How can non-Indigenous individuals practice meaningful allyship?
Activity 03
Students are given a list of actions (e.g., wearing an orange shirt, donating to an Indigenous charity, voting for land rights). They categorize them as 'starting points' or 'deep actions' and discuss with a partner why consistency is the key to true allyship.
What are the responsibilities of settlers in the reconciliation process?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Being an ally means 'helping' Indigenous people because they are 'vulnerable.'
Allyship is about supporting Indigenous sovereignty and rights, not acting as a 'savior.' Role-playing scenarios help students practice taking direction from Indigenous voices rather than trying to 'fix' problems themselves.
I am not Indigenous, so treaties don't apply to me.
Treaties are agreements between Indigenous nations and the Crown (representing all Canadians). Therefore, everyone living in Canada is a 'treaty person.' Researching local treaty history helps students understand their personal connection to these legal agreements.
Methods used in this brief