https://livelearn.ca/article/about-canada/5-facts-about-the-diversity-of-indigenous-peoples/
As an educator I think it is important, when possible, to use local Indigenous knowledge. When providing students with local contexts I believe they will better connect with the content being taught. On my journey to find research to help educate about the diversity of Indigenous peoples I found this website by livelearn.ca that describes the differences in Indigenous territories and even provides a description of the seven bands or tribes that make up the territory that I live on. The 5 facts about the diversity of Indigenous Peoples include:
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Indigenous cultural traditions in Canada existed as far back as 400 years ago
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There are more than 634 First Nations communities all over Canada living in traditional territories and in urban centres
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There are more than 60 Indigenous languages
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10 Indigenous cultural areas in North America, six are in Canada
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Residential schools contributed much to the decline of Indigenous language and culture
It’s important that students understand that even if we explore Indigenous worldviews in our class, these views or traditions come from a specific territory. All Indigenous cultures and territories differ from nation to nation across Canada.
When I arrived to Canada I heard the myth “If you’ve met one Indigenous person then you’ve met them all”. I highly appreciate this resource as it tells using facts that this is NOT TRUE. Indigenous Peoples’ experiences cannot be homogenized; therefore, each student must be understood in relationship to their cultural identity, diverse spiritual practices, and experiences. Thankyou Whitney for sharing this with us.