Introduction

This introductory module is thoughtfully designed to provide a respectful and authentic introduction to some key elements of the diverse histories and cultures of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. With great care, we embark on this learning journey, acknowledging the diverse ways of knowing and being that have existed from Coast to Coast to Coast for time immemorial. Through this introductory module, we aim to recognize, introduce, and pull apart some common (mis)understandings about Indigenous peoples' cultures, Rights, identities, and ways of knowing and being. Specifically, we will cover the following topics:

De-mystifying the basics.
Indigenous vs. Settler Timelines.
Common Mistakes to be Addressed.

It is important to remember that these are complex topics. As such, it is imperative to note that our introductory modules have been produced to shine a light on or take a glimpse at these complex and interconnected topics. These modules have been created for those seeking to take their first few steps to learn more about working with Indigenous Peoples in Canada. As you delve into this module, we encourage you to approach the subject matter with an open heart and a willingness to reflect both critically and thoughtfully – mindful that this is only the beginning of your journey.

As you progress in your journey, you may find a desire to explore these topics in greater depth. Our subsequent certificate-eligible modules are thoughtfully curated to support your continued learning, offering in-depth, nuanced lessons regarding specific topics (e.g., Treaties 101).

So, let's begin.

Welcome to Introduction to Working with Indigenous People!

This module will start you on a learning journey, allowing you to open your hearts and minds to appropriately, meaningfully, and effectively listen to and work with Indigenous peoples. For those of you who are Indigenous, we hope you can share in this discussion, with your invaluable knowledges and experiences, and collaborate on the missed education opportunities that many Settlers in Canada suffer from.

We will try to take a different approach to online learning in this module, so be prepared for reading, listening, watching, thinking and communicating. This is not a module where you, the learners, are simply expected to absorb what we at 4 Directions write and curate. This journey is about trying to process what we are learning collectively as much as possible.

Stop and Reflect

As a way to take our first step, take a moment to think about where you are:

Where are you from? What is something interesting about yourself? What are you hoping to take away from the module? What questions do you have on your mind that you need answered right away to participate in a good way?
Whose territory you are in? To help you answer this question, you can use several of the following resources:

Look at the nearest Indigenous community's website for suggestions or an approved acknowledgement(s).
Aboriginal and Treaty Rights Information System (ATRIS).
Nearest municipal office or school.

Why do we start like this? Because this module is about the basis for relationships and it is important to start in a good way. It is important to remember that many Indigenous Peoples and communities have experienced negative interactions with many organizations or non-Indigenous institutions in general (for example: the government, education system, and healthcare system). So, you may need to work extra hard to build a relationship of trust that overcomes the mistrust that has been planted by colonization.

Learning how to introduce yourself is part of being transparent about who you are and where you come from, it is an opportunity to acknowledge the lands you are on and commit to building good relationships. Establishing relationships will take time and effort.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

Discuss common myths associated with Indigenous Peoples and communities in Canada.
Explain some differences between Indigenous vs. Settler perspectives on Timelines.
Describe some common mistakes that settlers make when interacting with Indigenous Peoples.

Beginning Your Journey

A key goal for this module is to start you on a learning journey of self-discovery. Both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples are going through a transition of learning about the culture of Indigenous peoples (some rediscovering their heritage) and the true history of Canada. In Indigenous culture, there is no such thing as an expert. Someone can be knowledgeable or skilled but not an expert.

Additional curated readings will be provided to help guide on as you take further steps on your journey.

These resources are provided at the end of the module.
These additional readings are not mandatory, and you will not be graded on them.
Learning journeys are not meant to be a strictly academic exercise, but hopefully, the materials presented point you in the right direction.
Always remember: the readings are not enough. The next step is to connect with the Indigenous community.

Establishing an Inclusive Learning Environment

Code of Conduct

All 4 Directions modules, no matter their delivery format, have a code of conduct. In addition to the standard expectations, which you can find in our Getting Ready to Learn module, you should take a moment and explore the following points, which are essential for personal conduct and for generating a healthy space and dialogue in this module:

Be open to opinions that may be different from your worldview.
Connect with yourself and others on this journey on different matters, especially when there is a disagreement or opinion.
When in doubt, take a pause and then come back to the dialogue.

Reflections, Sharing and Debriefing

This module may allow you to ask yourself or unpack:

Examine individual or systemic impacts of ignorance or prejudice,
Challenge your past educational experiences and your understanding of Indigenous lives and cultures, and
Hopefully, give yourself the ability to ask or learn more.

Connecting Synchronously

As you move through this or other modules, you may wish to connect with others on a similar journey, as well as members from the 4 Directions team. You can sign up for our Community of Practice membership, which includes live synchronous Fireside Chat sessions where you can discuss your learnings from this and other modules, as well as ask questions of our team that may not be covered in the modules.

If you have a question about content or concepts from this module and are attending a Fireside chat session, here is one helpful way to prepare for the session and the most out of your time:

Describe what you saw, read, or experienced during a module activity or unit
Relate this to your own life and your emotional response
Analyze the implications of what you are learning. Assess similarities and differences, potential effectiveness and look at the implications of the issues raised.
Expand your analysis of the issues being discussed to other groups and issues. Who else is affected by this? What other issues could this apply to and how are they similar or different?
Offer Alternatives: Brainstorm ideas that explore how the implications of the content/video/activity can have positive outcomes. This can include concrete ideas for action about how this can be accomplished and can include personal, interpersonal, social and institutional actions.