I’ve noticed that teaching indigenous perspectives are often short lived and heavily focused on the trauma, and pain surrounding their culture(s). I understand that this is most likely due to the lack of knowledge, uncomfortable feelings, and worry that non-indigenous teachers encounter when approaching indigenous history.
So, I find myself wondering if there is a way, I could continually imbed indigenous perspectives, history, and ways of life throughout the year with my future students? And how to do this while also introducing other cultures without overshadowing the importance of FNMI curriculum. My main goal is to bring forward a complete experience of culturally responsive teaching and giving my students the opportunity to explore the beauty of indigenous culture, and not just the pain while also learning the magnificence of many diverse cultures. However, with that goal comes a fear of potentially minimizing indigenous people’s experiences in Canada.
If anyone has some advice or suggestions for me, I would greatly appreciate it!