FNMI Then and Now
- Mr. Gyles
- Jun 10, 2020
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 11, 2020
FMNI In Our Schools
The Canadian school context has been centered around a Euro-centric perspective. My parents, my grandparents, and myself have been taught about colonization, treaties, and how ‘white people’ fixed a culture that was not even broken. Now as the world enters a time of systematic racism how can we as educators ensure a world free of prejudice and racism. Therefore, we must not only shed light on the injustices First Nations faced but, reconcile the actions of our predecessors in the hope to shape a better world. Teaching about the now is just as important as teaching about the past.
Beginning this module, I was unaware that in 1999 the creation of Nunavut gave the Inuit a degree of administrative autonomy (Education is Our Buffalo, 2016). This is interesting because many other FNMI don’t have administrative freedom like the Inuit. As well, I learned more about the sacred circle as an important symbol of the First Nation’s way of life. Although the circle symbolizes the different stages of life, it also characterizes the notions of inclusion and equality. I learned that this symbol (sacred circle) is drawn on teepees, woven into clothing, and made into ornamental parts of one’s national dress (Education is Our Buffalo, 2016). More so, the circle teaches four elements of mental, spiritual, emotional, and physical as the interconnected components of a balanced human life. This is important in understanding the context of First Nation traditions and ways of life.
Elders
Elders are vital to the longevity of Aboriginal cultures and practices. Although I knew beforehand how important their role was in the transmission of cultural practices and stories I did not know exactly how they did it. The Education is Our Buffalo, highlights how elders maintain culture through giving prayers before meetings, describing or performing traditional ceremonies, sharing traditional knowledge, giving spiritual advice to individuals, demonstrating traditional crafts and practices, and teaching the community’s protocols. (Education is Our Buffalo, 2016). More so, students should be made aware that one must earn the right to become an Elder in a First Nations community. Not all Elders are seniors, some Elders are young. In The Learning Circle, an activity called Our Elders and Grandparents is a good way to begin a unit in Social Studies on Elders for Grades 6-7.
Firstly, asks students to bring photographs of their grandparents or others they consider to be Elders in their life. The photos should include a picture of their grandparents and Elders as children, young adults, or as older people. Have students write a two-paragraph response on how their Elders have a positive impact on their life. Ask questions regarding how they are role models, how they treat others, and other important stories they may have told you from their childhood. If students are struggling, ask them if there is anything that symbolizes their Elder. For example, if the Elder takes a lot of photographs, a camera could represent the importance of capturing important moments in their life.
After, talk about how Elders in Indigenous cultures Elders are honored because they have gifts of insight and understanding, and they are willing to share the knowledge that they possess. (Government of Canada, 2016). Have the students write about the person they have chosen and share knowledge and stories about them. A group discussion will be very valuable for students who have a tough time remembering specific times in their life.
Finally, on a bulletin board have the students post their photo and written response on the impact of Elders in their life. After, have the students discuss individually or in a group if they feel comfortable how this person has a positive impact on who they are.
For more ideas on learning about Elders in Indigenous communities click here Pathoftheelders. The website has resources ranging from grades 4-10 and has tons of resources and interactive games for students to learn about Elders.
Signing off,
Mr. Gyles.
References
The Learning Circle. (2010). Classroom Activities on First Nations in Canada. In Indian and Northern Affairs Canada. Retrieved June 9, 2020, from https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-PPLCOM/STAGING/texte-text/ach_lr_ks_clsrs_learningcircle_lc811_1316538072761_eng.pdf
Social Studies. Grade 7. (2020) Programs of Study. In Government Alberta. Retrieved June 10, 2020, from http://www.learnalberta.ca/ProgramOfStudy.aspxlang=en&ProgramId=564423#242978
Our Elders and Grandparents Actvity. (2016). In Government of Canada. Retrieved June 10, 2020, from https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1315492662416/1534950829089
Education is Our Buffalo. (2016). The Alberta Teachers Association. Retrieved June 10, 2020, from https://www.teachers.ab.ca/SiteCollectionDocuments/ATA/Publications/Human-Rights-Issues/Education%20is%20Our%20Buffalo%20(PD-80-7).pdf
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