Canadian Race Relations Foundation

The fifth report in the series 'Diversity in the Classroom' discusses Aboriginal students in the classroom. Recognizing the history of oppression that Aboriginal students have undergone in the education process, this resource focuses on the need to consider First Nations cultures and educational pedagogy in order to address these injustices and create a more equitable and inclusive classroom for First Nations students. In addition, it outlines specific measures that can be taken in the classroom, including, but not limited to, ensuring that First Nations history is not misrepresented or characterized, challenging stereotypes that are evident in the media and curriculum, and encouraging the inclusion of Aboriginal perspectives in the classroom.

Racism continues today as First Nations and Métis people continue to deal with racial harassment and discrimination as part of their everyday experience. As one Métis woman commented, 'Our cultural identity is tied to racism. We know we're the other. If we ignore this reality in our schools today, we only serve to perpetuate the past and do not do justice to First Nations and Métis students.' (p.4)