The article that follows is from MediaINDIGENA. It can be shared to illustrate how everyday racism allows and normalizes the dehumanization of, and violence against, Aboriginal people. Students need to understand that this dehumanization and violence is given authority when First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples are described as inferior or silenced in everyday conversations, policies, ads, textbooks, and other spaces. There are no innocent jokes or comments. As Dr. Verna St. Denis teaches, language has power and this power has authorized the oppression and genocide of Indigenous peoples throughout 500 years of colonization. Although the stories in the articles are systemic, there are respectful and meaningful ways to talk about and prevent racism, misogyny, homophobia and all forms of oppressive violence. Let's have these conversations in our staff rooms and classrooms, during PD days.
Seeking the Breaking Point: Violence and Justice in Canada
http://www.mediaindigena.com/sarah-hunt/issues-and-politics/seeking-the-breaking-point-violence-and-justice-in-canada
