The books all Canadians should read during Indigenous History Month and beyond
June 21st, 2021 marks the 25th anniversary of National Indigenous Peoples day, where we recognize the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples. This year, in the wake of the tragic discovery of the mass gravesite at a former residential school in Kamloops, B.C. our reflections deepen. As we work toward becoming better allies and taking the time to understand the true depth of the history and significance of Indigenous peoples on Turtle Island, taking the time to educate ourselves well beyond what we learned in school is more important than ever. Below is a compiled list of resources helpful for anyone wanting to learn, but especially encouraged for non-Indigenous people. Thank you to James Makokis and Anthony Johnson for sharing these recommendations.
Books
Suffer the Little Children: Genocide, Indigenous Nations and the Canadian State, $38.56
An eye-opening and timely book looking at the history of genocide of Indigenous peoples in Canada.
The Reconciliation Manifesto: Recovering the Land, Rebuilding the Economy, $22.95
Indigenous rights activist Arthur Manuel offers and Grand Chief Ronald Derrickson question all things about the relationship between non-Indigenous and Indigenous Canadians – looking at land claims, racism and false reconciliation.
Our Elders Understand our Rights: Evolving International Law Regarding Indigenous Peoples, $18.95
Tracing the evolution of laws throughout the world that have had a direct impact on Indigenous peoples, this book from Sharon Helen Venne offers a unique perspective of how the rights and legal status of Indigenous people were altered over time.
Unsettling Canada: A National Wake-Up Call, $29.65
A personal perspective from Arthur Manuel, a Secwepemc leader and an Indigenous activist, who describes the fifty-year struggle fighting for Indigenous rights in Canada.
The Reconciliation Manifesto: Recovering the Land, Rebuilding the Economy, $22.95
Indigenous rights activist Arthur Manuel and Grand Chief Ronald Derrickson question all things about the relationship between non-Indigenous and Indigenous Canadians – looking at land claims, racism and false reconciliation.
Clearing the Plains: Disease, Politics of Starvation, and the Loss of Indigenous Life, $27.95
A profoundly researched look into Canada′s history of the treatment of Indigenous peoples.
No Surrender: The Land Remains Indigenous, $27.95
A detailed look at the treaty negotiations in Canada between 1869 and 1877 with the Indigenous peoples of The Great Plains.
Documentary
The Doctrine of Discovery: Unmasking the Domination Code
A look at the original nations whose land title is ruled by U.S. Supreme Court. The film is based on Co-Producer Steven Newcomb′s thirty years of research on the matter.