INDG 1220 Read, Write, Share #2

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University of Manitoba *

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1220

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Anthropology

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Dec 6, 2023

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Read, Write & Share #2 INDG 1220-D02: Indigenous Peoples in Canada Part 1 Instructor: Honoure Black University of Manitoba Megan Tremblay Innes, R. (2021). Challenging a Racist Fiction: A Closer Look at Métis–First Nations Relations.”. A People and a Nation: New Directions in Contemporary Métis Studies , 92- 114. https://search.lib.umanitoba.ca/permalink/01UMB_INST/k6qbb2/cdi_proquest_ebook centralchapters_6477034_8_103 My name is Megan I am a mother to 2 young daughters, ages 6 and 4. I am originally from Abbotsford, British Columbia however I moved at the age of 4 to northern Alberta and have been here since. The only thing I really know about Metis First Nations and the racism they face is minimal. I do know they are stereotyped and face racism on a continuous basis. I did not know the challenges they Metis and First Nations face with one another. I hope to gain an understanding of any power imbalances or conflicts that may exist between these two groups. I am interested in exploring how contemporary issues such as resource extraction and self- governance impact Métis-First Nations relations. Based on the author's statement "This chapter seeks to challenge that fiction by examining historical evidence for cooperation and alliance building between First Nations and Métis people" (Innes, 2021, p. 93). Consequently, he attempts to disrupt the racist fiction that marginalizes both groups and hinders their self-determination struggles. It is one of Innes' key arguments that Métis identity is not merely the result of intermarried families but rather a unique Indigenous nation. This perspective not only acknowledges the history and contributions of the Métis people, but also challenges the dominant narrative portraying them as "half-breeds" or "mixed bloods." Innes states, "The construction of Métis identity as a mixed-race category has been central to colonialism's efforts to deny Indigenous sovereignty" (p. 94). As a nation of self-determination, the Métis can assert their

rights by asserting their Indigenous identity. One unfamiliar idea presented by Innes is the concept of "racialization." The author argues that both Métis and First Nations peoples have been subjected to racialization, but in different ways. While First Nations people have historically been racialized as inferior and savage, Métis individuals have often been romanticized as "half-breeds" or "mixed blood”. This distinction sheds light on the unique challenges faced by each group in relation to racism. One idea that resonates with my inquiry is the concept of a racist fiction. Innes argues that the dominant narrative surrounding Métis-First Nations relations perpetuates a false contrast, pitting these communities against each other. This resonates with my understanding of how colonialism has created divisions among Indigenous peoples, often leading to internal conflicts. In addition, Innes highlights the importance of recognizing shared histories and experiences between the Métis and First Nations. By acknowledging their interconnectedness, it becomes possible to challenge stereotypes and foster solidarity within Indigenous communities. This aligns with my inquiry into promoting reconciliation and understanding among diverse Indigenous groups. Grace Crick:  Hi Grace, Thank you for sharing. It was interesting to see what you took away from reading the article and how you mentioned that indigenous women didn't have as many rights than other women within Canada, I think it's imperative for others to know this. As Sam stated above it's also important that people know women were viewed as lesser by the European and French men. Indigenous women were seen as objects of conquest or exoticism by European explorers and settlers. They were often portrayed as submissive or sexualized figures in art, literature, and popular culture. This objectification further reinforced the notion that indigenous women were lesser than their European counterparts. Great Job! :) Megan Tremblay

Alyssa Bukowski: Hi Alyssa, I choose to write on the same article. Prior to reading I had no idea that there was ever a divide between Metis and First Nations. I found it quite interesting to read! First Nations peoples are the original inhabitants of Canada, with diverse cultures and languages. They faced centuries of marginalization, forced assimilation, and loss of their traditional territories. On the other hand, Métis people are descendants of both Indigenous peoples and European settlers. They have a distinct culture that emerged from the intermarriage between Indigenous women and European men during the fur trade era. The divide between these two groups were influenced by various factors. Historical grievances played a significant role. The treaties signed with First Nations often excluded Métis people, leading to feelings of exclusion and discrimination among them. Government policies such as residential schools further exacerbated this division by targeting First Nations communities specifically. Cultural differences also contribute to this divide. While both groups share an Indigenous heritage, they have distinct languages, traditions, and ways of life. This can create misunderstandings or tensions between them. Great job! :) Megan Tremblay

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INDG 1220 Read, Write, Share #2

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