A University Canada West-produced six-part series exploring both the history of the First Nations peoples of Canada and looking at a path forward for Truth and Reconciliation in the country is now available as a podcast.
Understanding Indigenous History: A Path Forward, produced by University Canada West, was hosted by award-winning Canadian broadcast journalist Lisa LaFlamme and features interviews with prominent First Nations leader Phil Fontaine, who is former National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, and internationally recognized human rights expert Kathleen Mahoney, as well as other special guests.
The podcast is available on Spotify, Apple, Amazon, YouTube, IHeartRadio and RSS.com.
The series premiered on UCW’s YouTube Channel earlier this year and endeavoured to help viewers navigate the intricate webs of Indigenous history and Truth and Reconciliation in Canada.
According to Mahoney and Fontaine, “All good teaching is about transformation – individual, collective and institutional. Each of these levels is needed to foster reconciliation for all wrongs done to Indigenous peoples in Canada. We hope this series assists in some small way towards that end.”
“This is a history lesson that won’t feel like a lesson at all,” LaFlamme added.
The series explores the oral history of the origins of Indigenous peoples before European settlers arrived on the land that became Canada, treaties and the fur trade, the impact of assimilation, leadership and governance within First Nations communities, Indigenous law and the 94 calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
The six-part series includes:
Episode 1, “The Beginning,” embarks on a journey to better understand the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Through the oral origin stories and the recorded history since contact, “The Beginning” explores the complex tapestry of Indigenous life prior to the arrival of European settlers and the impacts of colonization.
Episode 2, “Treaties,” delves into the complex world of treaty relations between Indigenous peoples and colonial powers. Explore the intricacies of these agreements, from their historical contexts to their contemporary implications.
Episode 3, “Impact of Assimilation,” examines the profound repercussions of colonization on Indigenous communities. From the Indian Act to residential schools, colonial policies aimed to control and assimilate Indigenous peoples, leaving lasting scars on generations.
Episode 4, “Leadership and Governance,” ventures into the realm of leadership and governance within Indigenous communities, from traditional systems to contemporary institutions.
Episode 5, “Indigenous Law,” delves into the intricate realm of Indigenous law, exploring the resilience and tradition embedded within these legal systems that have guided Indigenous communities for generations.
Episode 6, “Calls to Action,” looks at changes that still need to be made. Witness the resilience and determination of Indigenous leaders and allies as they strive for meaningful action and accountability.
