A History of the Relationship Between Indigenous Peoples and the Crown (IRA102)

Overview

Delivery method

Online

Duration

2 hours

Audience

Employees

All public servants at all levels

Description

Understanding the historical relationship between First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and the Crown is essential to understanding contemporary Indigenous–Crown relations and the ongoing work of reconciliation. This online self-paced course examines key historical periods, laws, policies, and events that have shaped the relationship between Indigenous Peoples and the Government of Canada, including treaty relationships, colonial expansion, assimilation policies, Indigenous resistance and advocacy, and modern reconciliation efforts. Participants will explore how historical decisions continue to influence Indigenous rights, governance, lived realities today, and the role of the federal public service in supporting respectful relationships and reconciliation.

Topics include:

• exploring major periods in Indigenous–Crown relations, from pre-contact to contemporary reconciliation
• examining some historical legislations like treaties and other foundational acts
• understanding the impacts of colonial policies such as residential schools, Indian hospitals, forced relocations, and the Sixties Scoop
• reviewing Indigenous activism, legal advocacy, and movements for self-determination
• assessing contemporary reconciliation initiatives, including the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

Notes:

This course is a prerequisite for the following courses:

• First Nations in Canada (IRA103)
• The Métis Nation in Canada (IRA104)
• Inuit in Canada (IRA105)

Legacy course code: K100