Grade Nine Social Studies
Students will develop an understanding and knowledge of two general units: Issues for Canadians: Governance and Rights, and Issues for Canadians: Economic Systems in Canada and the United States.
Issues for Canadians: Governance and Rights
What Is Systemic Racism? Incarceration
Did you know that back in the 80s there were less than half a million people in the US prison system, but now, thanks to the war on drugs, there are more than 2 million? That out of every 100,000 Americans about 700 are incarcerated, but out of every 100,000 Black men over 4,000 are incarcerated? And one of the many effects of that trend is that combined with felony disenfranchisement laws, it means 13% of Black American men are denied their right to vote?
What Is Systemic Racism? Incarceration
Did you know that back in the 80s there were less than half a million people in the US prison system, but now, thanks to the war on drugs, there are more than 2 million? That out of every 100,000 Americans about 700 are incarcerated, but out of every 100,000 Black men over 4,000 are incarcerated? And one of the many effects of that trend is that combined with felony disenfranchisement laws, it means 13% of Black American men are denied their right to vote?
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Current event discussion
- Systemic racism - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
- Manual transcription available
What Is Systemic Racism? Housing Discrimination
What would you call it if lifetimes of legal segregation followed by decades of pervasive racist housing policies still, to this day, disadvantage Black people in almost every aspect of life, because where you live can decide everything from how safe you are, to what food you eat, to the quality of your health care to the quality of your job, to the quality of your children's education?
What would you call it if lifetimes of legal segregation followed by decades of pervasive racist housing policies still, to this day, disadvantage Black people in almost every aspect of life, because where you live can decide everything from how safe you are, to what food you eat, to the quality of your health care to the quality of your job, to the quality of your children's education?
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Current event discussion
- Systemic racism - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
- Manual transcription available
What Is Systemic Racism? Infant Mortality
Did you know that even though America’s infant mortality rate has gone way down in the last 50 years, Black babies are still almost 2.5 times more likely to die before reaching their 1st birthday? Did you know that Black mothers are 3 three times as likely to die during childbirth, that Black and Hispanic mothers are more than twice as likely not to receive proper prenatal care and Native American mothers are more than 3 times less likely to receive proper care?
Did you know that even though America’s infant mortality rate has gone way down in the last 50 years, Black babies are still almost 2.5 times more likely to die before reaching their 1st birthday? Did you know that Black mothers are 3 three times as likely to die during childbirth, that Black and Hispanic mothers are more than twice as likely not to receive proper prenatal care and Native American mothers are more than 3 times less likely to receive proper care?
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Current event discussion
- Systemic racism - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
- Manual transcription available
What Is Systemic Racism? Drug Arrests
Did you know that over 40% of drug arrests are not for selling any drugs but just for possession of marijuana? And that White and Black Americans are about equally likely to use marijuana, but Blacks are 3.7 more likely to be arrested for it? And that even if they don't get convicted of a crime that arrest can stay on their record and affect their chances at good jobs, housing and bank loans for the rest of their lives.
Did you know that over 40% of drug arrests are not for selling any drugs but just for possession of marijuana? And that White and Black Americans are about equally likely to use marijuana, but Blacks are 3.7 more likely to be arrested for it? And that even if they don't get convicted of a crime that arrest can stay on their record and affect their chances at good jobs, housing and bank loans for the rest of their lives.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Current event discussion
- Systemic racism - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
What Is Systemic Racism? Immigration
Have you ever wondered why, even though undocumented people come to the US from all over the world, the face of undocumented persons is always assumed to be from Central America or South America? And our heavy-handed enforcement policies, that ruin lives and tear families apart every day, are focused almost entirely on the Southern US border, and the Hispanic people of color who cross that border?
Have you ever wondered why, even though undocumented people come to the US from all over the world, the face of undocumented persons is always assumed to be from Central America or South America? And our heavy-handed enforcement policies, that ruin lives and tear families apart every day, are focused almost entirely on the Southern US border, and the Hispanic people of color who cross that border?
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Discussion about stereotypes and how that influences our treatment of others
- Discussion about undocumented people in America: Who makes the rules? What is the difference between undocumented people vs. colonizers in the past? - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
- Manual transcription available
Latinx Deaf Talent
Depicts the behind the scenes of a Latinx Deaf Talent Photo Shoot in which several deaf individuals gather to share their talent and creativity. Melissa Elmira Yingst interviews the participants to further understand the importance of Latinx and deaf talent.
Depicts the behind the scenes of a Latinx Deaf Talent Photo Shoot in which several deaf individuals gather to share their talent and creativity. Melissa Elmira Yingst interviews the participants to further understand the importance of Latinx and deaf talent.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada - Suggested use:
- Current event discussion - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with closed captioning and ASL available
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
How Maps Teach Racism in School
Anti-racism educator explains how some versions of maps distort the sizes of certain countries to make them more prominent.
Anti-racism educator explains how some versions of maps distort the sizes of certain countries to make them more prominent.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Introduction to geography of the world
- Discussion about how we perceive the world to be and what has influenced us to think that way
- Discussion about countries with a lot of power: make inferences on these countries based on how they are distorted in some maps
- Study different kinds of maps and compare the sizes - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
What Is Systemic Racism? Employment
Did you know that no matter what else is going on in America, year in and year out for the last 60 years, Black unemployment is always about twice as high as white unemployment? And even if you just look at Black college graduates, they're still almost twice as likely to be unemployed as white college graduates? And if you just apply for a job with a white sounding name, you're 50% more likely to get a callback than with a Black sounding name?
Did you know that no matter what else is going on in America, year in and year out for the last 60 years, Black unemployment is always about twice as high as white unemployment? And even if you just look at Black college graduates, they're still almost twice as likely to be unemployed as white college graduates? And if you just apply for a job with a white sounding name, you're 50% more likely to get a callback than with a Black sounding name?
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Discussion about systemic racism and how it is very prominent in our confederation
- Discussion about how we can see this in Canada today
- Representation in jobs, or maybe discuss the demographic of the employees at the school - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
- Manual transcription available
Standing Up to a Racist Bully
In this story, Sapphire shares the torment she went through when a school bully wouldn't leave her alone. She hated school because of it. It made friends and class time unbearable. He bullied her because of her skin color. He was a racist and picked on her for days. His bullying bothered her so much that she tried to change herself, make herself look different, disguise herself.
In this story, Sapphire shares the torment she went through when a school bully wouldn't leave her alone. She hated school because of it. It made friends and class time unbearable. He bullied her because of her skin color. He was a racist and picked on her for days. His bullying bothered her so much that she tried to change herself, make herself look different, disguise herself.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Can tie in with health and self-esteem
- Discussion about bullying in regards to someone's race
- Students can create their own animated video talking about their experience with bullying
- Writing prompt: Have you ever witnessed someone being bullied because of their race? How did it make you feel? What did you do about it (if you did something)? - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Uncomfortable with My Skin Color
Ever since Sydney was a little girl she felt uncomfortable in her own skin. All the tv shows and magazines she saw showed people with white and brown and light black skin, but none of them showed people that looked like her, that had dark black skin. She was made fun of and teased (and even bullied for her skin color) about the color of her skin by classmates at school, by friends, at the beauty salon, and even by her own family. The called her names and made her feel different than everyone else, even though, of course, inside she was just the same.
Ever since Sydney was a little girl she felt uncomfortable in her own skin. All the tv shows and magazines she saw showed people with white and brown and light black skin, but none of them showed people that looked like her, that had dark black skin. She was made fun of and teased (and even bullied for her skin color) about the color of her skin by classmates at school, by friends, at the beauty salon, and even by her own family. The called her names and made her feel different than everyone else, even though, of course, inside she was just the same.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Discussion about colourism and instances that can be found throughout history and even today, can tie it in with ads and social media - lightening products, photoshop skin colour, etc.
- Discussion about being bullied for race - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
My Friends Made Hateful Jokes Because I Was Jewish
Growing up Cian was always the "different" kid. The reason he was so unique was that he was the only Jewish kid living in an almost totally Christian town. There were only three Jews in the entire middle school of six hundred students. That's about zero point three percent. Of course, everyone knew that Cian was Jewish, and most everyone was totally cool with it, even if they didn't really understand it. He had lots of friends and a whole group of best friends in his class, but there were those kids, and those times, when he was the on the receiving end of some really insulting and awful anti-semitic jokes, Holocaust jokes and worse.
Growing up Cian was always the "different" kid. The reason he was so unique was that he was the only Jewish kid living in an almost totally Christian town. There were only three Jews in the entire middle school of six hundred students. That's about zero point three percent. Of course, everyone knew that Cian was Jewish, and most everyone was totally cool with it, even if they didn't really understand it. He had lots of friends and a whole group of best friends in his class, but there were those kids, and those times, when he was the on the receiving end of some really insulting and awful anti-semitic jokes, Holocaust jokes and worse.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Discussion about anti-Semitism
- Written response to the video
- Discussion about being one of the few minorities in a given environment - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Scared of the Man Sitting Next to Me
Shir Levi is an amazing, dynamic, and soulful YouTuber and storyteller who lives in Israel and who, on her channel, tries to share everything she learns on her journey through life. Shir remembers so clearly, when she was twelve years old, watching the live television broadcast of the planes flying into the World Trade Center in New York City on September 11, 2001 (9/11). Those terrible moments had such an impact on her, planting such fear and uncertainty inside of her, haunting her. And she remembers the stories in the newspapers that came out after 9/11, with pictures of the suspected terrorists.
Shir Levi is an amazing, dynamic, and soulful YouTuber and storyteller who lives in Israel and who, on her channel, tries to share everything she learns on her journey through life. Shir remembers so clearly, when she was twelve years old, watching the live television broadcast of the planes flying into the World Trade Center in New York City on September 11, 2001 (9/11). Those terrible moments had such an impact on her, planting such fear and uncertainty inside of her, haunting her. And she remembers the stories in the newspapers that came out after 9/11, with pictures of the suspected terrorists.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Discussion about where hatred or fear comes from (relate to racism or xenophobia) and what the repercussions of fear are
- Discussion about ways to overcome fear (relate to what the woman in the video did - she spoke with him and got to know him better) - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
In Canada
This 20-minute, bilingual film features the personal stories and experiences of diverse immigrants to Canada from all over the world. The impressions and reflections shared in the film touch on the themes of Journey, Arrival and Belonging. in Canada is at times moving, funny and thought-provoking and will show you the personal side of the Canadian immigration experience.
This 20-minute, bilingual film features the personal stories and experiences of diverse immigrants to Canada from all over the world. The impressions and reflections shared in the film touch on the themes of Journey, Arrival and Belonging. in Canada is at times moving, funny and thought-provoking and will show you the personal side of the Canadian immigration experience.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Discuss themes of journey, arrival, and belonging; can relate to colonialism and settlers coming, ties into how we are a diverse country now
- Discussion on immigrant experience, give the floor to those in the class who are immigrants and would like to share - Accessibility:
- No captions available, accommodations will be needed
- Translated into French and English
Black Mother, Black Daughter
Black Mother, Black Daughter explores the lives and experiences of black women in Nova Scotia, their contributions to the home, the church and the community and the strengths they pass on to their daughters.
Black Mother, Black Daughter explores the lives and experiences of black women in Nova Scotia, their contributions to the home, the church and the community and the strengths they pass on to their daughters.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Discussion about lived experiences
- Written prompt about feeling inspired by what caregivers have left us (e.g. wanting to follow in our parents footsteps)
- Discussion about the strength of familial bonds and the legacy it can leave (can be positive or negative)
- Introduction to do further research on Black women in Nova Scotia or in Canada in general - how has Black power been passed on and how can we see the effects of resiliency in today's society? - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
I Am Afraid After The Synagogue Shooting in Pittsburgh
A student created video, Bella lives in a neighborhood called Squirrel Hill in Pittsburgh. She's grown up there, lived there her whole life, has her friends and her synagogue there, right near the Tree of Life synagogue, and it had always been a peaceful neighborhood - diverse and accepting - a really nice place to live. There were a lot of Jewish families who lived there and she could hardly remember any anti-Semitism ever happening around them.
A student created video, Bella lives in a neighborhood called Squirrel Hill in Pittsburgh. She's grown up there, lived there her whole life, has her friends and her synagogue there, right near the Tree of Life synagogue, and it had always been a peaceful neighborhood - diverse and accepting - a really nice place to live. There were a lot of Jewish families who lived there and she could hardly remember any anti-Semitism ever happening around them.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Discussion on what it means to be accepting and inclusive
- Can use as an example of positive experiences (some hope in a world focused on negativity) - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Disrespected for Wearing a Hijab
It is hard and scary enough to start at a new school, and even harder when you're just entering high school, but for Ammaarah it was tougher still - she was the only girl in her school who wore a hijab. She was scared, and nervous, and really felt like she stood out - just different - and she was afraid that people would question her, or look at her strangely. But, to her surprise and delight, they didn't. Everyone seemed to accept her, and she started to feel comfortable.
It is hard and scary enough to start at a new school, and even harder when you're just entering high school, but for Ammaarah it was tougher still - she was the only girl in her school who wore a hijab. She was scared, and nervous, and really felt like she stood out - just different - and she was afraid that people would question her, or look at her strangely. But, to her surprise and delight, they didn't. Everyone seemed to accept her, and she started to feel comfortable.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Discuss feelings of bullying, standing out, feeling different, having support, making friends, cultural beliefs and sensitivity - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Systemic Racism Explained
Animated video explaining what Systemic Racism and Implicit Bias are, with examples and how to go about solving it.
Animated video explaining what Systemic Racism and Implicit Bias are, with examples and how to go about solving it.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Current event discussion - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Experiencing White Supremacy
Melissa Elmira Yingst speaks about her negative experience of when she expressed thoughts on the 4th of July celebrations being a privilege. She also discusses the fundamental issue of white supremacy within society. This video is presented in ASL (American Sign Language) and captioned.
Melissa Elmira Yingst speaks about her negative experience of when she expressed thoughts on the 4th of July celebrations being a privilege. She also discusses the fundamental issue of white supremacy within society. This video is presented in ASL (American Sign Language) and captioned.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Current event discussion
- Compare to the Canadian Charter of Rights, discuss who is not represented and the impacts of legislation on groups of people - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with closed captioning and ASL available
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Black Deaf History - Joseph Sarpy
Joseph Sarpy reminisces his early years as the first deaf theatre actor. He discusses his passion for theatre, and how he slowly began to notice other deaf artists succeeding in the art. The whole video is presented in ASL (American Sign Language) and captioned.
Joseph Sarpy reminisces his early years as the first deaf theatre actor. He discusses his passion for theatre, and how he slowly began to notice other deaf artists succeeding in the art. The whole video is presented in ASL (American Sign Language) and captioned.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Current event discussion
- How are we making progress towards inclusivity of people who are hearing impaired? How has our views as a society changed over time? - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal with closed captioning and ASL available
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
I Am NOT A Terrorist!
It's hard to feel different, and to dress differently - to wear a burka or a hajib - and these days, with so much fear about terrorism - it has become hard sometimes to be a Muslim. There is a lot of discrimination, and kids at school can often be the meanest, treating others badly, cursing and swearing at them, calling them names, bullying them, beating them up, even calling them terrorists. Aneeka, a student, was a victim to all of this - she was called names, left out of sports, even kicked and laughed at in school - all because of her religion, because she follows the Islamic faith.
It's hard to feel different, and to dress differently - to wear a burka or a hajib - and these days, with so much fear about terrorism - it has become hard sometimes to be a Muslim. There is a lot of discrimination, and kids at school can often be the meanest, treating others badly, cursing and swearing at them, calling them names, bullying them, beating them up, even calling them terrorists. Aneeka, a student, was a victim to all of this - she was called names, left out of sports, even kicked and laughed at in school - all because of her religion, because she follows the Islamic faith.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Discussion about experiences that shape who we are today
- Discussion about media and how it influences how we view certain groups of people
- Repercussions of 9/11 on the rest of the world, relate to Islamophobia (if appropriate) or just hate crimes and racist actions in general - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
- Manual transcription available
The History of Braids & Bans on Black Hair
Braids and other traditionally Black hairstyles have been banned in the military, schools, and the workplace — but they're also championed as a symbol of celebration. Here's a look at the history of Black hairstyles and the evolution of the natural hair movement in America.
Braids and other traditionally Black hairstyles have been banned in the military, schools, and the workplace — but they're also championed as a symbol of celebration. Here's a look at the history of Black hairstyles and the evolution of the natural hair movement in America.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Discussion prompt on the significance of hair in other cultures in Canada
- Discuss identity markers used in the classroom (clubs, style, grade)
- Note similarities with the treatment of African Americans and Canada's treatment of the Indigenous Peoples
- Discuss bonding activities done within families in the classroom
- Discuss personal experiences of changing one's appearance to fit in
- Discuss cultural appropriation - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
Peanut Butter, Jelly and Racism
What is implicit bias? NYT/POV's Saleem Reshamwala unscrews the lid on the unfair effects of our subconscious.
What is implicit bias? NYT/POV's Saleem Reshamwala unscrews the lid on the unfair effects of our subconscious.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Current event and personal reflection on how implicit bias plays a role in student's lives (important to address how difficult it can be to acknowledge implicit bias for some, but that it is important) Ensure there is an environment of support and openness in classroom - Accessibility:
- Transcription available
Issues for Canadians: Economic Systems in Canada and the United States
What Is Systemic Racism? Wealth Gap
Did you know that in 2010 Black Americans made up 13% of the population but had only 2.7% of the country's wealth? That the median net worth for a white family was $134,000, but the median net worth for a Hispanic family was $14,000, and for a Black family it was $11,000? That the median wealth for a single white woman has been measured at $41,000, while for Hispanic women it was $140, and for Black women, $120? Did you know that? Do you know what that's called? Systemic Racism, and yes, it's really a thing.
What Is Systemic Racism? Wealth Gap
Did you know that in 2010 Black Americans made up 13% of the population but had only 2.7% of the country's wealth? That the median net worth for a white family was $134,000, but the median net worth for a Hispanic family was $14,000, and for a Black family it was $11,000? That the median wealth for a single white woman has been measured at $41,000, while for Hispanic women it was $140, and for Black women, $120? Did you know that? Do you know what that's called? Systemic Racism, and yes, it's really a thing.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.2 - Understanding and appreciation of how economic decision making in Canada and the United States impacts quality of life and citizenship and identity - Suggested use:
- Current event discussion
- Systemic racism - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
- Manual transcription available
What Is Systemic Racism? Government Surveillance
You probably know that today's technology lets the government watch what we do and track where we go more than ever before, so much that privacy's almost a thing of the past. But did you know the government watches some of us a lot more than others depending on where we come from? That as recently as 2011 the NYPD was exposed for targeting their surveillance specifically at what they called "ancestries of interest" Using our tax dollars to spy on these people's everyday lives just going to the barbershop and the bookstore, and singling them out for this constant invasion of privacy based on nothing but where their ancestors were born?
You probably know that today's technology lets the government watch what we do and track where we go more than ever before, so much that privacy's almost a thing of the past. But did you know the government watches some of us a lot more than others depending on where we come from? That as recently as 2011 the NYPD was exposed for targeting their surveillance specifically at what they called "ancestries of interest" Using our tax dollars to spy on these people's everyday lives just going to the barbershop and the bookstore, and singling them out for this constant invasion of privacy based on nothing but where their ancestors were born?
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.2 - Understanding and appreciation of how economic decision making in Canada and the United States impacts quality of life and citizenship and identity - Suggested use:
- Current event discussion, can tie into controversy with TikTok - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
- Manual transcription available
Project Implicit’s Implicit Bias Test
The implicit bias test has been used to demonstrate that individuals possess implicit bias.
The implicit bias test has been used to demonstrate that individuals possess implicit bias.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Have students participate in the test, discuss the legitimacy of the test, discuss the need and/or benefits of the test. NOTE: Please consider your classes' individual needs when including this resource - Accessibility:
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal students
Diversity Activities Resource Guide
A variety of diversity activities provided by the University of Houston. This worksheet is part of a curated selection of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion exercises maintained by the UH Center for Diversity and Inclusion. It is intended to provide an engaging, hands-on activity that allows participants to gain a greater understanding of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion topics.
A variety of diversity activities provided by the University of Houston. This worksheet is part of a curated selection of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion exercises maintained by the UH Center for Diversity and Inclusion. It is intended to provide an engaging, hands-on activity that allows participants to gain a greater understanding of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion topics.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Resource has details on how to use - Accessibility:
- Accommodations required for nonverbal, hard of hearing, and visually impaired students dependent on activity
First Encounters With Race and Racism: Teaching Ideas for Classroom Conversations
Entry points for having discussions with students around race, racial bias and racism. Note: Consider your class when choosing resources, not every activity is a fit for every class. Also consider the impact of racial traumas for students and recognize that having open discussions without first creating a safe space can have negative impacts on students.
Entry points for having discussions with students around race, racial bias and racism. Note: Consider your class when choosing resources, not every activity is a fit for every class. Also consider the impact of racial traumas for students and recognize that having open discussions without first creating a safe space can have negative impacts on students.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Class discussion - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal (excluding discussion)
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Be the Change
A potential activity a class or classes could take on parts of or all to help students develop an understanding and appreciation of how the political, demographic, economic and social changes that have occurred since Confederation have presented challenges and opportunities for individuals and communities. After classroom discussions, independent research of secondary sources, and conversations with senior citizens, each student wrote a report on the culture of his or her choice, including pictures of the country’s topography, flag, and peoples.
A potential activity a class or classes could take on parts of or all to help students develop an understanding and appreciation of how the political, demographic, economic and social changes that have occurred since Confederation have presented challenges and opportunities for individuals and communities. After classroom discussions, independent research of secondary sources, and conversations with senior citizens, each student wrote a report on the culture of his or her choice, including pictures of the country’s topography, flag, and peoples.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Activity attached - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal (excluding discussion)
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Is It Offensive for Sports Teams to Use Native American Names and Mascots?
Native American names and symbols have long been popular for all types of American sports teams at the professional, college and high school levels. Think of the Cleveland Indians, Atlanta Braves and Washington Redskins. Is it offensive for sports teams to use Native American names and mascots? Students can engage in dialogue.Note: The use of the term 'Native American' is used in the article in an American context.
Native American names and symbols have long been popular for all types of American sports teams at the professional, college and high school levels. Think of the Cleveland Indians, Atlanta Braves and Washington Redskins. Is it offensive for sports teams to use Native American names and mascots? Students can engage in dialogue.Note: The use of the term 'Native American' is used in the article in an American context.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Suggested connection: Edmonton Eskimos article
- Host a class debate on whether the sports team name changes are justified - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
Act Up! Drama for Justice
Students write and perform a skit or monologue that brings awareness to a specific issue addressed in the text - Drama can be a powerful tool for social change. It allows students to call attention to injustice and to envision a scene in which injustice is overcome. Using dialogue, students can change the very language associated with the injustice. With drama, students can re-imagine moments of historical courage. Drama is hands on, creative and fun for students NOTE: Consider your classes' individual needs, also consider the possibility that certain material considered for the skits could be triggering for some individuals.
Students write and perform a skit or monologue that brings awareness to a specific issue addressed in the text - Drama can be a powerful tool for social change. It allows students to call attention to injustice and to envision a scene in which injustice is overcome. Using dialogue, students can change the very language associated with the injustice. With drama, students can re-imagine moments of historical courage. Drama is hands on, creative and fun for students NOTE: Consider your classes' individual needs, also consider the possibility that certain material considered for the skits could be triggering for some individuals.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Website has details on how to use - Accessibility:
- Accommodations required for nonverbal, hard of hearing, and visually impaired students
Issues of Canadians: Governance and Rights
Country Profiles
Profiles with fast facts and cultural information for countries across the world.
Country Profiles
Profiles with fast facts and cultural information for countries across the world.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Use as a research project to compare and contrast Canada with various countries - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
Black History Canada - 23 Historical Black Canadians You Should Know
This article provides a brief overview of the accomplishments of various Canadian Black leaders, including (but not limited to) Viola Desmond, Marie-Joseph Angelique, and Donovan Bailey.
This article provides a brief overview of the accomplishments of various Canadian Black leaders, including (but not limited to) Viola Desmond, Marie-Joseph Angelique, and Donovan Bailey.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Discussion about being put into a box or being defined by other people
- Use as a supplement to reclamation - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
Diwali: Festival of Lights
Learn about India's biggest holiday of the year.
Learn about India's biggest holiday of the year.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Discussion about cultural events celebrated in different parts of the world - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
Holi: Festival of Colours
Bright neon powder covers revelers in northern India during the annual Hindu celebration called Holi, usually held in March. Known as the festival of colors, Holi is celebrated on the last full moon in the lunar month of Phalguna.
Bright neon powder covers revelers in northern India during the annual Hindu celebration called Holi, usually held in March. Known as the festival of colors, Holi is celebrated on the last full moon in the lunar month of Phalguna.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Discussion about cultural events celebrated in different parts of the world - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
It's Caribbean Carnival Time
The Toronto Caribbean Carnival is one of Canada’s largest celebrations of freedom and diversity. It showcases the very best of Canadian Caribbean culture and art. This article provides a brief overview of Carnival and how it's celebrated.
The Toronto Caribbean Carnival is one of Canada’s largest celebrations of freedom and diversity. It showcases the very best of Canadian Caribbean culture and art. This article provides a brief overview of Carnival and how it's celebrated.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Discussion about cultural events celebrated in different parts of the world - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
Learn All About the Muslim festival Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha (say “EED al UDD-ha”) is a Muslim festival, which lasts for several days (it varies based on where you live). Keep reading to learn more about this special festival.
Eid al-Adha (say “EED al UDD-ha”) is a Muslim festival, which lasts for several days (it varies based on where you live). Keep reading to learn more about this special festival.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Discussion about cultural events celebrated in different parts of the world - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
The Bear That Wasn't
No two people are exactly alike. Each of us is an individual with unique talents, interests, and values. Often, others do not recognize what is so distinct about us and instead attach labels to us that may differ from those we would choose for ourselves. Sometimes the labels others attach to us influence the way we think about our own identity. In the book The Bear That Wasn’t, author Frank Tashlin uses words and pictures to describe that process. (Questions for discussion included.)
No two people are exactly alike. Each of us is an individual with unique talents, interests, and values. Often, others do not recognize what is so distinct about us and instead attach labels to us that may differ from those we would choose for ourselves. Sometimes the labels others attach to us influence the way we think about our own identity. In the book The Bear That Wasn’t, author Frank Tashlin uses words and pictures to describe that process. (Questions for discussion included.)
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Discussion about difference, similarities, and the innate biology of human beings to categorize and its influence on how we view the world - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
We’re All a Little Biased, Even if We Don’t Know It
Explains implicit bias.
Explains implicit bias.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Discussion about implicit bias and how that shaped Canada's treatment of marginalized communities in the past and present - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
Black History Month
This article provides a brief history of Black History Month in the United States and an overview of its significance. Today Black History Month continues the discussion of Black people and their contributions through activities such as museum exhibits and film screenings, and by encouraging the study of achievements by African Americans year-round. Additional article focusing on Black history month in Canada.
This article provides a brief history of Black History Month in the United States and an overview of its significance. Today Black History Month continues the discussion of Black people and their contributions through activities such as museum exhibits and film screenings, and by encouraging the study of achievements by African Americans year-round. Additional article focusing on Black history month in Canada.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Discussion about contributions to the world and how some are more known than others - why is that?
- Tie into Canada's history of not acknowledging the harm done to the Indigenous Peoples in Canada
- Tie into Truth and Reconciliation
- Discussion about the contribution of Black people to forming/shaping Canada - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
Muslim Hip-Hop Dancers Break Down Stereotypes While Breaking It Down In Niqab
This article explores a Muslim dance group which puts on performances in niqabs and hijabs to confront and combat anti-Muslim sentiments and racism.
This article explores a Muslim dance group which puts on performances in niqabs and hijabs to confront and combat anti-Muslim sentiments and racism.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Discussions about racism, xenophobia, and Canada's history of it and how we see it in present-day - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
Ramadan for non-Muslims: An etiquette guide
There are billions of Muslims in our world, and many of them fast from sunrise to sunset every day for an entire month during Ramadan, the holiest month of the Muslim calendar. But what if you're not a Muslim -- just a caring, considerate person. Here are some things you should know so you don't come across as insensitive to your fasting friends in the during Ramadan.
There are billions of Muslims in our world, and many of them fast from sunrise to sunset every day for an entire month during Ramadan, the holiest month of the Muslim calendar. But what if you're not a Muslim -- just a caring, considerate person. Here are some things you should know so you don't come across as insensitive to your fasting friends in the during Ramadan.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Current event discussion
- Discussion about similarities in values we see with people who practice Ramadan and the student's set of values. For example, maybe the students celebrate Lent and Easter - what values are similar? - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
#DoIMatterNow Campaign Promotes Indigenous-Muslim Solidarity in Canada
The campaign was launched to promote solidarity between Indigenous and Muslim women in Canada—two groups at the brunt end of just-defeated Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s most controversial policies—in response to the PM’s rhetoric and policies against wearing veils.
The campaign was launched to promote solidarity between Indigenous and Muslim women in Canada—two groups at the brunt end of just-defeated Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s most controversial policies—in response to the PM’s rhetoric and policies against wearing veils.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Discussion about solidarity
- Discussion about democracy, rights and freedoms of marginalized groups
- Discussion about Canadian "values" and if policies are upholding these values - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
- Additional accommodations required for visually impaired students
Where Can I Learn More about Indigenous People in Canada?
This article provides introductory resources for children and youth to understand more about Indigenous Peoples in Canada. It includes links to books, games, and activities.
This article provides introductory resources for children and youth to understand more about Indigenous Peoples in Canada. It includes links to books, games, and activities.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada
- 9.1.7 - Assess, critically, how the increased demand for recognition of collective rights has impacted the legislative process in Canada: How does the Indian Act recognize the status and identity of Aboriginal peoples? - Suggested use:
- Includes links to books, articles, activities - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students dependent on activity
What is Orange Shirt Day?
Orange Shirt Day (September 30th) is a day when we honour the Indigenous children who were sent away to residential schools in Canada and learn more about the history of those schools.
Orange Shirt Day (September 30th) is a day when we honour the Indigenous children who were sent away to residential schools in Canada and learn more about the history of those schools.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada
- 9.1.7 - Assess, critically, how the increased demand for recognition of collective rights has impacted the legislative process in Canada: How does the Indian Act recognize the status and identity of Aboriginal peoples? - Suggested use:
- Discussion about residential schools and the impact it has left on Canada today
- Discussion about imperialism, assimilation - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students dependent on activity
Indigenous or Aboriginal: Which is correct?
A brief explanation on commonly used terminology related to the Indigenous Peoples of Canada, including indications of correct and incorrect use.
A brief explanation on commonly used terminology related to the Indigenous Peoples of Canada, including indications of correct and incorrect use.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada
- 9.1.7 - Assess, critically, how the increased demand for recognition of collective rights has impacted the legislative process in Canada: How does the Indian Act recognize the status and identity of Aboriginal peoples? - Suggested use:
- Discussion about being put into a box or being defined by other people
- Use as a supplement to reclamation - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students dependent on activity
Issues for Canadians: Economic Systems in Canada and the United States
Hero for All: Martin Luther King, Jr.
Civil Rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., never backed down in his stand against racism. Learn more about the life of this courageous hero who inspired millions of people to right a historical wrong.
Hero for All: Martin Luther King, Jr.
Civil Rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., never backed down in his stand against racism. Learn more about the life of this courageous hero who inspired millions of people to right a historical wrong.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.2.3 - Appreciate the impact of government decision making on quality of life - Suggested use:
- Case study: highlight an individual/community's impact on effecting change
- Discussion about systemic racism: look for evidence in the formation of Canada, and what systemic racism looks like today
- Discussion about civil rights in the past and today - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students dependent on activity
Issues for Canadians: Governance and Rights
The effects of the gender-culture interaction on self-reports of depressive symptoms: cross-cultural study among Egyptians and Canadians
Purpose research in depression has revealed differences in the way depressed individuals across cultures report their symptoms. This literature also points to possible differences in symptom reporting patterns between men and women.
The effects of the gender-culture interaction on self-reports of depressive symptoms: cross-cultural study among Egyptians and Canadians
Purpose research in depression has revealed differences in the way depressed individuals across cultures report their symptoms. This literature also points to possible differences in symptom reporting patterns between men and women.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Current event discussion - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Examining Cultural Drifts in Artworks through History and Development
Research on cultural products suggest that there are substantial cultural variations between East Asian and European landscape masterpieces and contemporary members’ landscape artwork (Masuda et al., 2008), and that these cultural differences in drawing styles emerge around the age of 8 (Senzaki et al., 2014). However, culture is not static. The results showed cultural variations in artworks and masterpieces as well as substantial cultural drifts (Herskovits, 1948) where at certain time periods in history and in development, people’s expressions deviated from culturally default patterns but occasionally returned to its previous state.
Research on cultural products suggest that there are substantial cultural variations between East Asian and European landscape masterpieces and contemporary members’ landscape artwork (Masuda et al., 2008), and that these cultural differences in drawing styles emerge around the age of 8 (Senzaki et al., 2014). However, culture is not static. The results showed cultural variations in artworks and masterpieces as well as substantial cultural drifts (Herskovits, 1948) where at certain time periods in history and in development, people’s expressions deviated from culturally default patterns but occasionally returned to its previous state.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
“Oh Canada”: reflections of multiculturalism in the poetry of canadian women dub artists
This article explores how Canadian multiculturalism is reflected in the poetry of Canadian dub artists. It briefly outlines the concept of multiculturalism, its fallacies and inadequacies, followed by an introduction to dub poetry. The main part is dedicated to the discussion of dub poetry by Lillian Allen, Ahdri Zhina Mandiela, and Afua Cooper. Focussing often on the situation of women, their poetry exposes multiple forms of oppression and silencing on the grounds of the nexus of class, race, and gender.
This article explores how Canadian multiculturalism is reflected in the poetry of Canadian dub artists. It briefly outlines the concept of multiculturalism, its fallacies and inadequacies, followed by an introduction to dub poetry. The main part is dedicated to the discussion of dub poetry by Lillian Allen, Ahdri Zhina Mandiela, and Afua Cooper. Focussing often on the situation of women, their poetry exposes multiple forms of oppression and silencing on the grounds of the nexus of class, race, and gender.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Rethinking Anti-Racism and Equity Education
The article discusses the importance of incorporating anti-racist policies in school curricula and explores ways by which educators can contribute towards an equity-centered educational system in Canada. The author states that racism is evident in public schools in Toronto, Ontario where school authorities are still predominantly white. She suggests that school officials be committed to reforms and teacher development programs should promote an environment that espouses inclusion of all students.
The article discusses the importance of incorporating anti-racist policies in school curricula and explores ways by which educators can contribute towards an equity-centered educational system in Canada. The author states that racism is evident in public schools in Toronto, Ontario where school authorities are still predominantly white. She suggests that school officials be committed to reforms and teacher development programs should promote an environment that espouses inclusion of all students.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Comparison to charter of rights to school based rules and policies - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Diasporic Activism and the Mediations of “Home”: South Asian Voices in Canadian Drama
This paper will analyze how the networks between home and spaces of residence in multicultural Canada come alive on theatre stages through visual motifs, actors, props, and photographic collages, which confront the different trajectories of “home” that resurface in these plays. Through live scenes of imagination that speak to spectators, several plays under discussion in this essay expose how, while providing emotional sustenance for some, the baggage of “home” may also pose challenges in the home of residence. So the questions I raise are: How does home appear? To what end? And what does returning “home” teach us about the inequalities and injustices underlying the current global order?
This paper will analyze how the networks between home and spaces of residence in multicultural Canada come alive on theatre stages through visual motifs, actors, props, and photographic collages, which confront the different trajectories of “home” that resurface in these plays. Through live scenes of imagination that speak to spectators, several plays under discussion in this essay expose how, while providing emotional sustenance for some, the baggage of “home” may also pose challenges in the home of residence. So the questions I raise are: How does home appear? To what end? And what does returning “home” teach us about the inequalities and injustices underlying the current global order?
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Towards Sensorial Approaches to Visual Research with Racially Diverse Young Men
This is a collaborative ethnographic research project that highlights the artistic, literary contributions of racially diverse young men. It uses Critical Race Theory to question conventional, Eurocentric educational approaches that historically and currently continue to suppress various socially and culturally learned modes of communication. This article presents two research projects in urban and suburban formal and informal educational institutions to highlight multimodal literary approaches.
This is a collaborative ethnographic research project that highlights the artistic, literary contributions of racially diverse young men. It uses Critical Race Theory to question conventional, Eurocentric educational approaches that historically and currently continue to suppress various socially and culturally learned modes of communication. This article presents two research projects in urban and suburban formal and informal educational institutions to highlight multimodal literary approaches.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Omar Khadr, Hannah Arendt, and the Racialization of Rights’ Discourse
Omar Khadr, a Canadian minor who was held captive in Guantanamo Bay for a decade, to demonstrate that, at times, neither citizenship nor human rights offer any protection to those who, are citizens of a country and are certainly human beings, yet have been deprived of the rights associated with those statuses. A critical assessment of the debate regarding whether the rights conferred upon citizens are the only true barriers against abuse, or whether human rights have become a more effective protection. How the discourse around citizenship and human rights remains racialized, to the point where certain individuals are considered neither citizens nor humans, and therefore are potentially subject to abuse.
Omar Khadr, a Canadian minor who was held captive in Guantanamo Bay for a decade, to demonstrate that, at times, neither citizenship nor human rights offer any protection to those who, are citizens of a country and are certainly human beings, yet have been deprived of the rights associated with those statuses. A critical assessment of the debate regarding whether the rights conferred upon citizens are the only true barriers against abuse, or whether human rights have become a more effective protection. How the discourse around citizenship and human rights remains racialized, to the point where certain individuals are considered neither citizens nor humans, and therefore are potentially subject to abuse.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
A Critical Examination of Chinese Language Media’s Normative Goals and News Decisions
Ethnic media are an integral part of a multicultural communication infrastructure benefiting all Canadians, as they provide services pivotal to immigrants’ settlement, integration, and participation in Canadian society, yet numerous studies of ethnic media reveal deficiencies in their performance. This analysis informed by interview data examines Chinese language media’s normative goals in relation to news decision-making. Outlet news workers convey commendable goals, and those who stress citizen building dedicate themselves to journalistic roles despite unfavourable circumstances. Meanwhile, Chinese language media outlets operate according to norms of social responsibility divergent from mainstream media.
Ethnic media are an integral part of a multicultural communication infrastructure benefiting all Canadians, as they provide services pivotal to immigrants’ settlement, integration, and participation in Canadian society, yet numerous studies of ethnic media reveal deficiencies in their performance. This analysis informed by interview data examines Chinese language media’s normative goals in relation to news decision-making. Outlet news workers convey commendable goals, and those who stress citizen building dedicate themselves to journalistic roles despite unfavourable circumstances. Meanwhile, Chinese language media outlets operate according to norms of social responsibility divergent from mainstream media.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Has Multiculturalism Really Failed? A Canadian Muslim Perspective
In recent years, claims that multiculturalism has created segregated communities, encouraged terrorism, and failed to foster shared national identities in western nations have gained popularity. In this paper, we use young Canadian Muslims’ lived experience of multiculturalism to reflect on this debate. Contrary to popular rhetoric, our interviews of 50 young Muslim adults show that many maintain a dual Canadian-Muslim identity by utilizing the ideology of multiculturalism, even though they are increasingly stigmatized for their religion. These findings lead us to problematize the discourse surrounding the ‘failure’ of multiculturalism and to highlight the contradictions within it.
In recent years, claims that multiculturalism has created segregated communities, encouraged terrorism, and failed to foster shared national identities in western nations have gained popularity. In this paper, we use young Canadian Muslims’ lived experience of multiculturalism to reflect on this debate. Contrary to popular rhetoric, our interviews of 50 young Muslim adults show that many maintain a dual Canadian-Muslim identity by utilizing the ideology of multiculturalism, even though they are increasingly stigmatized for their religion. These findings lead us to problematize the discourse surrounding the ‘failure’ of multiculturalism and to highlight the contradictions within it.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Religious Diversity in the Public Sphere: The Canadian Case
The ever-changing (non)religious landscape offers an opportunity to consider the flow of ideas from this new diversity to responses and choices at the individual, group, and state levels to inclusion and exclusion. The paper first begins with a descriptive approach to religious diversity, identifying the normatively-charged nature inherent to measures of religion. It then turns to the notion of choices, considering the somewhat uniquely Canadian contributions of multiculturalism, reasonable accommodation, and the recent complication of nonreligion as a category of religious identity. The paper then considers three case studies which reveal the tensions embedded in the new diversity and responses to it in Canada.
The ever-changing (non)religious landscape offers an opportunity to consider the flow of ideas from this new diversity to responses and choices at the individual, group, and state levels to inclusion and exclusion. The paper first begins with a descriptive approach to religious diversity, identifying the normatively-charged nature inherent to measures of religion. It then turns to the notion of choices, considering the somewhat uniquely Canadian contributions of multiculturalism, reasonable accommodation, and the recent complication of nonreligion as a category of religious identity. The paper then considers three case studies which reveal the tensions embedded in the new diversity and responses to it in Canada.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.2 - Appreciate the various effects of government policies on citizenship and on Canadian society - Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Social Media Conversations About Race
How social media users see, share and discuss race and the rise of hashtags like #BlackLivesMatter.
How social media users see, share and discuss race and the rise of hashtags like #BlackLivesMatter.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Racism and English Language Learning
Around the world, there is a growing number of linguistically diverse students enrolling in schools with English as the medium of instruction, and most educators are “interacting on a daily basis with learners with backgrounds and experiences different from his or her own” (Dei, 1996, p. 9). Guided in part by Srivastava’s (2007) pedagogical questions about “how we learn racist knowledge, how we perpetuate racist practices, and how we can change our everyday practices” (p. 306), this paper uses ideas from critical race theory (CRT), Dlamini’s (2002) interpretation of critical pedagogy, and Dei’s (1996) principles of anti-racism education to examine the intersection of racism and language, especially in relation to ELLs in K-12 schools in Canada.
Around the world, there is a growing number of linguistically diverse students enrolling in schools with English as the medium of instruction, and most educators are “interacting on a daily basis with learners with backgrounds and experiences different from his or her own” (Dei, 1996, p. 9). Guided in part by Srivastava’s (2007) pedagogical questions about “how we learn racist knowledge, how we perpetuate racist practices, and how we can change our everyday practices” (p. 306), this paper uses ideas from critical race theory (CRT), Dlamini’s (2002) interpretation of critical pedagogy, and Dei’s (1996) principles of anti-racism education to examine the intersection of racism and language, especially in relation to ELLs in K-12 schools in Canada.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada - Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
The Role of Indigenous Knowledge in the Promotion of Anti-Racism Education In Schools
The article explains what Indigenous knowledge is and discusses strategies that employ such knowledge in promoting anti-racist education. The author explains what colonization does and describes racism as the imposition of power upon Indigenous peoples in a society where belief in the superiority of Eurocentric knowledge and whiteness is promoted. She proposes five strategies for promoting anti-racism including the reclaiming of agency by teaching students to investigate their origins and including Indigenous languages in the curriculum.
The article explains what Indigenous knowledge is and discusses strategies that employ such knowledge in promoting anti-racist education. The author explains what colonization does and describes racism as the imposition of power upon Indigenous peoples in a society where belief in the superiority of Eurocentric knowledge and whiteness is promoted. She proposes five strategies for promoting anti-racism including the reclaiming of agency by teaching students to investigate their origins and including Indigenous languages in the curriculum.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.3 - Appreciate how emerging issues impact quality of life, citizenship and identity in Canada
- 9.1.7 - Assess, critically, how the increased demand for recognition of collective rights has impacted the legislative process in Canada: To what extent should federal and provincial governments support and promote the rights of official language minorities in Canada? - Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal
- Additional accommodations required for hard of hearing and visually impaired students
Issues of Canadians: Governance and Rights
8th Fire Wab Kinew 500 Years in 2 Minutes
Quick 2-minute run down video of the relationship between settlers and Indigenous folks, and where things are at today.
8th Fire Wab Kinew 500 Years in 2 Minutes
Quick 2-minute run down video of the relationship between settlers and Indigenous folks, and where things are at today.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.7 - Assess, critically, how the increased demand for recognition of collective rights has impacted the legislative process in Canada: How does legislation such as Treaty 6, Treaty 7 and Treaty 8 recognize the status and identity of Aboriginal peoples? - Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies - Accessibility:
- Closed captioning available on video
- Accessible for hard of hearing and nonverbal
- No descriptive captioning available for visually impaired students
The Indian Act
Information from the Indigenous Foundation at UBC about The Indian Act. Good source for research projects and general information.
Information from the Indigenous Foundation at UBC about The Indian Act. Good source for research projects and general information.
- Curriculum connection:
- 9.1.1 - Appreciate the impact of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on rights and governance in Canada
- 9.1.7 - Assess, critically, how the increased demand for recognition of collective rights has impacted the legislative process in Canada: How does legislation such as Treaty 6, Treaty 7 and Treaty 8 recognize the status and identity of Aboriginal peoples? - Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies - Accessibility:
- Accessible for nonverbal and hard of hearing
Miscellaneous
A Long Way to Go: Educators Perspectives of Multiculturalism and Racism in Alberta K-12 Classrooms
This report examines if racism is a concern in K-12 classrooms throughout urban and rural Alberta, and measures teacher knowledge and preparedness in the context of educating students on multiculturalism and racism.
A Long Way to Go: Educators Perspectives of Multiculturalism and Racism in Alberta K-12 Classrooms
This report examines if racism is a concern in K-12 classrooms throughout urban and rural Alberta, and measures teacher knowledge and preparedness in the context of educating students on multiculturalism and racism.
- Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies
Three Education Activities for Young People to Challenge Discrimination
Amnesty International's education network have shared three activities on human rights to empower young people to help challenge racism, stereotypes and prejudice, understand the individuals and communities at risk, and the consequences of discrimination.
Amnesty International's education network have shared three activities on human rights to empower young people to help challenge racism, stereotypes and prejudice, understand the individuals and communities at risk, and the consequences of discrimination.
- Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies
What Anti-Racist Teachers Do Differently
How to be a teacher that Black students can look up to.
How to be a teacher that Black students can look up to.
- Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies
Race Talk: Engaging Young People in Conversations about Race and Racism
As a society, public discussions about race and racism have increased in volume and intensity. Educators feel a sense of responsibility to bring these topics into their classrooms—because young people want to be part of the conversation and should be. If handled effectively, these discussions provide opportunities for timely learning.
As a society, public discussions about race and racism have increased in volume and intensity. Educators feel a sense of responsibility to bring these topics into their classrooms—because young people want to be part of the conversation and should be. If handled effectively, these discussions provide opportunities for timely learning.
- Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies
Why Microagressions Hurt
Microaggressions are small, subtle forms of discrimination - Often conversations about them get dominated by people who say they’re “no big deal.” Which may make you wonder if you or other people are just being too sensitive when microaggressions hurt. This comic strip explains why.
Microaggressions are small, subtle forms of discrimination - Often conversations about them get dominated by people who say they’re “no big deal.” Which may make you wonder if you or other people are just being too sensitive when microaggressions hurt. This comic strip explains why.
- Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies
Sometimes You're A Caterpillar
Simple and easy to understand video about what privilege is and how we can better understand it.
Simple and easy to understand video about what privilege is and how we can better understand it.
- Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies
History of Racism in Canada
Teachers in British Columbia have produced this anti-racism video about the history of racism in Canada. It includes historical and contemporary examples of racism as well as positive changes in society. Finally, it urges teachers and students to be change-makers within our schools.
Teachers in British Columbia have produced this anti-racism video about the history of racism in Canada. It includes historical and contemporary examples of racism as well as positive changes in society. Finally, it urges teachers and students to be change-makers within our schools.
- Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies
Empowering Young People in the Aftermath of Hate
A tool for educators and families to utilize in order to help young people understand why violence, terrorism, and hate-based incidents occur. This tool provides some questions to ask kids after events happen to stir conversations about hate and how to challenge it safely and effectively.
A tool for educators and families to utilize in order to help young people understand why violence, terrorism, and hate-based incidents occur. This tool provides some questions to ask kids after events happen to stir conversations about hate and how to challenge it safely and effectively.
- Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies
Confronting Race and Colonialism: Experiences and Lessons Learned From Teaching Social Studies
Paper about the struggles of educators when teaching social studies, particularly in engaging students in how they think about the world and inspiring them to create change. It speaks to the lack of ability and knowledge teachers have in their own critical analysis of discrimination and how it shows up in their teaching and classrooms. Written by a teacher in Ottawa.
Paper about the struggles of educators when teaching social studies, particularly in engaging students in how they think about the world and inspiring them to create change. It speaks to the lack of ability and knowledge teachers have in their own critical analysis of discrimination and how it shows up in their teaching and classrooms. Written by a teacher in Ottawa.
- Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies
Gallery Walk
During a gallery walk, students explore multiple texts or images that are placed around the room. You can use this strategy when you want to have students share their work with peers, examine multiple historical documents, or respond to a collection of quotations. Because this strategy requires students to physically move around the room, it can be especially engaging to kinesthetic learners.
During a gallery walk, students explore multiple texts or images that are placed around the room. You can use this strategy when you want to have students share their work with peers, examine multiple historical documents, or respond to a collection of quotations. Because this strategy requires students to physically move around the room, it can be especially engaging to kinesthetic learners.
- Suggested use:
- Use with Social Studies projects to allow students to observe, analyze, and critically assess a variety of work
Righting Canada's Wrongs: The Komagata Maru and Canada's Anti-Indian Immigration Policies in the Twentieth Century
In 1914, Canada was a very British society with anti-Asian attitudes. Although Great Britain had declared that all people from India were officially British citizens and could live anywhere in the British Commonwealth, Canada refused to accept them. This racist policy was challenged by Gurdit Singh, a Sikh businessman, who chartered a ship, the Komagata Maru, and sailed to Vancouver with over 300 fellow Indians wishing to immigrate to Canada. They were turned back, tragically. Over the years, the Canadian government gradually changed its immigration policies, first allowing entry to wives and children of Indian immigrants and later to many more immigrants from India. The Indo-Canadian community has grown throughout Canada, especially in British Columbia.
In 1914, Canada was a very British society with anti-Asian attitudes. Although Great Britain had declared that all people from India were officially British citizens and could live anywhere in the British Commonwealth, Canada refused to accept them. This racist policy was challenged by Gurdit Singh, a Sikh businessman, who chartered a ship, the Komagata Maru, and sailed to Vancouver with over 300 fellow Indians wishing to immigrate to Canada. They were turned back, tragically. Over the years, the Canadian government gradually changed its immigration policies, first allowing entry to wives and children of Indian immigrants and later to many more immigrants from India. The Indo-Canadian community has grown throughout Canada, especially in British Columbia.
- Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies
The Enemy that Never Was: A History of the Japanese Canadians
During the attack on Pearl Harbour, Japanese people were painted as threats. Due to this, they were placed in internment camps. This novel speaks towards the history and stories of the Japanese who were placed in these camps, after World War II.
During the attack on Pearl Harbour, Japanese people were painted as threats. Due to this, they were placed in internment camps. This novel speaks towards the history and stories of the Japanese who were placed in these camps, after World War II.
- Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies
Racism and English Language Learning
Around the world, there is a growing number of linguistically diverse students enrolling in schools with English as the medium of instruction, and most educators are “interacting on a daily basis with learners with backgrounds and experiences different from his or her own” (Dei, 1996, p. 9). Guided in part by Srivastava’s (2007) pedagogical questions about “how we learn racist knowledge, how we perpetuate racist practices, and how we can change our everyday practices” (p. 306). The author offers suggestions for EAL educators who are looking to implement anti-racist practices in the EAL classroom.
Around the world, there is a growing number of linguistically diverse students enrolling in schools with English as the medium of instruction, and most educators are “interacting on a daily basis with learners with backgrounds and experiences different from his or her own” (Dei, 1996, p. 9). Guided in part by Srivastava’s (2007) pedagogical questions about “how we learn racist knowledge, how we perpetuate racist practices, and how we can change our everyday practices” (p. 306). The author offers suggestions for EAL educators who are looking to implement anti-racist practices in the EAL classroom.
- Suggested use:
- Use to inform anti-racist teaching practices in Social Studies
