Learn about Indigenous food sovereignty
The History of Food in Canada Is the History of Colonialism
An article in Walrus magazine looks at the destruction of Indigenous food systems and asks what would it take to restore them.
This Land
Learn About Indigenous Medicines
The online magazine alive offers an article on “Aboriginal Medicine: Four Canadian plants with the power to heal” by Cara McKenna.
Learn Indigenous Teachings About Plants
This CBC News article includes a short video and looks at a program at Wanuskewin Heritage Park —a walking tour of medicinal plants used by Indigenous peoples. Or read Braiding Sweet: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teaching of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer. “As a botanist, Robin Wall Kimmerer has been trained to ask questions of nature with the tools of science. As a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, she embraces the notion that plants and animals are our oldest teachers.” A delicious read.
Visit Parks & Sites that Share Traditional Stories & Knowledge about the Land
“Six thousand years ago, Wanuskewin echoed with the thundering hooves of bison and the voices of Indigenous peoples from across the Northern Plains.” Wanuskewin provides tours and programs that share these stories, which still echo through the land.
Learn about Treaties in Canada
The Office Of The Treaty Commissioner Website
The Office of the Treaty Commissioner offers an excellent resource for an introductory understanding of treaties. There are also links to teaching resources and FAQs.
Watch Elder in the Making
Elder in the Making is a 95 minute documentary about a Blackfoot First Nation man and a Chinese Canadian newcomer embarking on a spiritual journey across traditional Blackfoot territory rediscovering their shared heritage.
Look Up the Meaning of Indigenous Place Names
Aboriginal Contributions to Place Names in Canada
“The map of Canada is a rich tapestry of place names which reflect the diverse history and heritage of our nation. Many of the country’s earliest place names draw on Aboriginal sources.” This document from the University of Manitoba offers a starting point for your research!
Watch a Heritage Minute on the history of treaties
“Heritage Minutes” by Historica Canada offer a brief glimpse into the making of Treaty 9, presenting it from the perspective of historical witness George Spence, an 18-year-old Cree hunter from Albany, James Bay. Look in This Land for more comprehensive information on treaties.
Attend a Blanket Exercise
“The KAIROS Blanket Exercise™ program is a unique, participatory history lesson – developed in collaboration with Indigenous Elders, knowledge keepers and educators – that fosters truth, understanding, respect and reconciliation among Indigenous and non-indigenous peoples.” Many local organizations now offer facilitation for this exercise. It’s an incredible learning experience to continue your journey of Reconciliation.
Study Chief Poundmaker’s Contribution to Treaty 6
Online dictionary of Canadian Biography
This detailed article explores the life of Chief Poundmaker and his role in the negotiations of Treaty 6 in 1876.
Understand Different Perspectives on Treaty Agreements
First Peoples of Canada Website
The First Peoples of Canada online resource looks at the difference between the Canadian government and Indigenous perspectives regarding treaty agreements. (Photo: A page from Treaty 4. Library and Archives Canada.)
Read CBC News for Different Perspectives on Treaty Agreements
CBC News, “Treaties from 1760 – 1923”
“Treaties from 1760 – 1923: Two sides to the story” is a short CBC News article that explores how oral agreements often differed from what appeared in printed documents. (Photo:Library and Archives Canada, Acc. No. 1986-79-1638)
