Indigenous Learning: Colonialism
September 30 is National Day of Truth and Reconciliation
Colonialism continues to impact Indigenous communities in our society. As a Youthdale community, let us learn the ways we can uplift Indigenous voices, and do our part to learn more and do better in our efforts towards Truth & Reconciliation. It is important to remember that while colonialism is seen as a moment of history – it is something that is still present in our societies. As settlers, we are responsible for decolonizing the land that we are on, and creating spaces inclusive to Indigenous communities.
Ways in which colonialism is present in society
Child welfare
Many Indigenous communities draw parallels to child welfare systems and residential schools. Both systems involve taking a child away from their families, with the notion of the government providing their children with a better upbringing. John Beaucage, Indigenous leader and the first Aboriginal Advisor to the Minister of Children and Youth Services has drawn parallels to the “Sixties Scoop” in comparison to today’s child welfare - “Millennium Scoop” as Indigenous children are widely overrepresented in the system (30% of children in foster care, despite making up only 4.1% of the under 15 population in Canada).
Housing
Indigenous peoples make up 20-50% of homelessness in Canada and are 8x more likely to experience homelessness than non-Indigenous groups. Those who do have housing on reserves deal with multiple substandard living environments one of them being not having access to clean drinking water. This is rooted in Canada’s theft of indigenous lands, and enforcing reserves in the 1800’s – contributing to long-standing (and current) housing challenges.
https://kojoinstitute.com/confronting-anti-indigenous-racism-and-colonialism-in-canada-part-ii/
What can you do?
Consider learning more & donating.
Child welfare
www.acyf.ca | fncaringsociety.com
