Indigenous Education and Reconciliation Infographics
STUdents in the School of Education must complete EDUC5123: Indigenous Education and Reconciliation as part of the Bachelor of Education degree program at St. Thomas University. The latest iteration of the course included an assignment focused on supporting teacher candidates to explore the concept of allyship. Being an ally means sharing the burdens of awareness, education, and change with marginalized peoples and communities in real, actionable ways. Acting in partnership to dispel myths, stereotypes, and misunderstanding can become an important step in promoting good relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
Working in consultation with Kamryn Saulis from the Wabanaki Centre, a list of pressing topics relevant to our community context were drafted. From here, teacher candidates paired up to select and research one of these topics. Ensuring that information was presented using authentic, reliable sources that could support others in learning about Indigenous peoples and issues was central to the project.
From this research and consultation emerged a collection of infographics. In July of 2023 the entire collection of infographics was shared with the Wabanaki Centre. Then, this fall, infographics pertinent to the 2023 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at St. Thomas University were selected and vetted by the Honourable Graydon Nicholas and Elder-in-Residence Miigam’agan. Once infographics received support from Indigenous leadership, a total of eight infographics were placed on display across campus during the week of National Truth and Reconciliation Day.
Visual displays of information provide a digestible, accessible, entry-point for students, faculty, and staff. As such, we hope that these infographics provide information that supports respectful and truthful understanding of Indigenous peoples and issues. This project represented a tangible way to contribute to processes of truth and reconciliation in our communities. Our hope is that this work prompts opportunities to learn, listen, and think about your own role in the path to reconciliation.
Infographics
Canadian Indian Residential Schools Timeline
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
Myth: Indigenous Peoples are all the same
Traditional Lands versus Reserves