Canadian Roots Exchange

Module 3: Blog #4

Website: http://canadianroots.ca/

The Canadian Roots Exchange (CRE) is Federal initiative in Canada that brings together Indigneous and non-Indigenous youth to build relationships and break down sterotypes. The cross-national programs offered by the CRE create a dialogue to foster understanding and reconciliation. However, the cost of the sending youth to workshops, (I day to 2 days) averages about $400., which may put this out of reach for many youth who come from low income families, even though the CRE does offer some bussaries to cover the cost.

The concept of reconciliation, by creating dialogue between Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth is an excellent proactive approach to creating understanding and trust, thus addressing the yoke of colonialism.  However, the CRE is a Federal initiative, and in many ways can be precieved as having a hidden agenda. Although, I would not speculate on this agenda, the record of “Indian Affairs” in Canada is directly linked to colonialism and cultural genocide.

As my journey of research expands, I am trying to examine government sites, while attempting to remove my lens of view as ingrained into my education in regards to First Nations. This site, contrasts the Nisga’a government website, in that it is a blending of cultures as Indigenous, whereas the Nisga’a present themselves; as Nisga’a.

Addition Links: There is various education resources available, from reading list to videos..

This You Tube video is about First Nation Hero’s; I have always examined role models in a good light, but as the concept of hero’s or hero worship is problematic. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ul4KmHlzMc

This video comes with a $25 download cost. This is a CRE video that examines the benefits of bring together the two cultures, as an aspect of reconciliation: http://canadianroots.ca/en/photos-videos/?gallery=videos#!prettyPhoto[videos]/0/