ARIE Research Update: Building Out Our Anti-Racism Toolbox - Navigating Anti-Racism Education and Resources for Middle & High School Educators

Acknowledging the existence of racism is the first step towards dismantling it. However, the road to becoming an ally can seem overwhelming. With a multitude of perspectives and resources available, it's easy to feel lost or unsure about where to begin. The key is to recognize that the journey is ongoing, and that each step forward (no matter how small it may seem) contributes to the greater goal of creating an inclusive and equitable society.

Educating oneself is one of the most important steps in the fight against racism. The following comprises a compilation of some of our team’s favourite materials, including books, articles, movies, educational materials, and other resources that provide valuable insights into the historical context, systemic structures, and personal experiences that perpetuate racism. They also offer guidance on leading an anti-racist lifestyle.

Movies

Kanehsatake: 270 Years of Resistance

This documentary chronicles the 1990 Oka Crisis in Canada, specifically focusing on the standoff between the Mohawk people of Kanehsatake and the Canadian government and land developers. Obomsawin's documentary captures the perspectives of the Mohawk people, shedding light on their resilience, their fight to protect their land, and the broader issues of Indigenous rights and sovereignty. It serves as a powerful portrayal of Indigenous resistance and the ongoing struggle for recognition and justice.

Speak It! From the Heart of Black Nova Scotia

Set in a predominantly White high school in Halifax, the film follows a group of Black students who encounter racism in various forms, including racist graffiti and the exclusion of Black history from textbooks.The documentary highlights the students efforts to confront racism while seeking empowerment and cultural identity in the face of adversity.

Books

Five Little Indians

This is a novel that follows the lives of five Indigenous individuals - Kenny, Lucy, Clara, Howie, and Maisie - who are survivors of the Canadian residential school system. The story traces their struggles, including the trauma and lasting impacts of their experiences at the hands of a system designed to erase their culture and identity. It explores their paths towards healing, resilience, and reclaiming their identities as they navigate through the challenges of post-residential school life.

The Boat People

This book is the story of a group of Sri Lankan refugees who arrive in Canada seeking asylum. The story follows their harrowing journey on a cargo ship and their subsequent detention upon reaching Canadian shores. It explores the complexities of immigration, identity, and the legal system as the refugees face scrutiny, suspicion, and a rigorous legal process to determine their refugee status.

Educational Resources

Challenging Racist “British Columbia”: 150 Years and Counting

This is an open-access project documenting over a century of anti-racist activism. It explores the ongoing struggles against White supremacy by Indigenous, Black, and other marginalized communities. Co-authored by activists and scholars, this resource aims to break the silence around racism, aiding educators, policymakers, and scholars in fostering change.

Speak Truth to Power Canada

This resource is a human rights educational resource for schools. It uses stories of courageous activists worldwide to inspire students on issues like crimes against humanity, children's rights, and Indigenous self-determination. The program encourages students to take action by showcasing brave individuals who risk their lives standing up to power and defending human rights for the vulnerable and oppressed.

For more ideas on anti-racist resources, please see the following CREAN infographic: https://www.canva.com/design/DAFxirnqJiI/6yg6YlHkjPydkjAssRhz5A/edit?utm_content=DAFxirnqJiI&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton

The project is funded by the Government of Canada.

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