Discussion Two
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Algonquin College *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
1813
Subject
Anthropology
Date
Apr 3, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
4
Uploaded by ColonelLightning13346
Discussion Two
1. The land inhabited for generations shapes one's identity. What happens when that land is taken away, or, equally, when people are taken away from it?
Significant disruptions that have a substantial impact on Indigenous people's identity, culture, and well-being happen when the land they have lived on for generations is taken away from them or when they are forcibly removed from it. For Indigenous communities, land is more than
just a geographical area; it is deeply entwined with their social, cultural, and spiritual identities. Cultural practices, spiritual ties, and traditional knowledge systems—many deeply ingrained in the land—are lost due to colonization's taking of land (Coulthard, 2014). The disruption of social
structures and community cohesion caused by forcible eviction from ancestral lands also results in the loss of collective identity and self-determination.
For example, forced relocation to reserves and the establishment of the reserve system itself have resulted in the displacement of Indigenous peoples in Canada. By doing these things, Indigenous peoples lost their connection to their ancestral lands and were unable to continue living by their cultural customs. Because of this, a lot of Indigenous communities face problems like language and cultural knowledge loss, which are essential parts of their identity. Furthermore, the trauma of being uprooted and displaced affects generations to come, sustaining social and psychological distress cycles in Indigenous communities.
2. What ways does the colonization of Indigenous Peoples continue today?
Indigenous peoples are still being colonized in Canada and other modern societies in a variety of
ways. The marginalization and exclusion of Indigenous peoples from decision-making processes
about their lands, resources, and rights is one notable way it continues. Even though legal frameworks acknowledge Indigenous rights and titles, it can be difficult for Indigenous communities to stand up for these rights against solid economic interests and governmental policies. Moreover, Indigenous peoples continue to experience socioeconomic inequality as a result of colonialism (Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, 2015). These differences have their origins in past injustices, including the expulsion of Indigenous peoples from their ancestral lands, the implementation of laws that discriminate against them, and the eradication of their languages and customs.
Furthermore, racism and discrimination against Indigenous peoples are still sustained by colonial attitudes and stereotypes, which has an impact on their day-to-day existence and career prospects. For example, systemic racism against Indigenous peoples still exists in several areas, such as housing, healthcare, and employment, which exacerbates their marginalization and inequality.
3. What can the government do today to ensure that the treatment of Indigenous peoples improves and that history is not repeated?
To guarantee improved treatment for Indigenous peoples and stop historical injustices from happening again, the government needs to take proactive measures to address the legacy of colonialism and promote reconciliation. As stated in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), this means respecting and defending the rights of Indigenous peoples, including the rights to culture, language, land, resources, and self-
determination (Assembly of First Nations, 2017). The government can make great strides toward
righting historical wrongs and preserving Indigenous rights for future generations by recognizing
and implementing the UNDRIP. Furthermore, to address the socioeconomic inequalities that marginalize Indigenous communities, significant action is required. This includes programs to address systemic racism and discrimination and focused investments in infrastructure, economic development, healthcare, and education. Reconciliation also requires upholding treaty obligations, encouraging meaningful engagement with Indigenous peoples, and supporting initiatives to revitalize Indigenous languages and cultures. The government can work to create a more just, inclusive, and equitable society where Indigenous peoples can flourish, and their rights are respected and upheld by making a comprehensive and persistent commitment to this goal.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
References
Assembly of First Nations. (2017). UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples: Action Plan.
Coulthard, G. S. (2014). Red skin, white masks: Rejecting the colonial politics of recognition. U of Minnesota Press.
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. (2015). Honouring the Truth, Reconciling for the Future: Summary of the Final Report of Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
Related Documents
Recommended textbooks for you

Essentials of Physical Anthropology (Third Editio...
Anthropology
ISBN:9780393938661
Author:Clark Spencer Larsen
Publisher:W. W. Norton & Company
Recommended textbooks for you
- Essentials of Physical Anthropology (Third Editio...AnthropologyISBN:9780393938661Author:Clark Spencer LarsenPublisher:W. W. Norton & Company

Essentials of Physical Anthropology (Third Editio...
Anthropology
ISBN:9780393938661
Author:Clark Spencer Larsen
Publisher:W. W. Norton & Company