Durham College (DC) is committed to the ongoing process of reconciliation and building respectful, reciprocal relationships that contribute to better educational outcomes for all students and a stronger community.
A critical part of that work is through education and creating an inclusive and diverse learning environment that enhances understanding and appreciation of Indigenous histories, cultures, and contributions.
To support our communities’ continued learning, DC offers a free, online, seven-module training course – Indigenous Histories and Reconciliation. These modules, created to support DC’s Indigenization Statement, aim to give an accurate history of Canada’s dealings with Indigenous communities, redefine Canadian identity through truth and reconciliation, and enhance personal and professional development. By building a network of faculty, staff, and students committed to lifelong learning about Indigenous issues, DC is creating a culture of respect, understanding, and equality.
True to Indigenous ways of learning and knowing, the course invites participants to discover their own ways of learning. Its seven modules – Love, Respect, Honesty, Humility, Bravery, Truth and Wisdom – can be taken in any order and provide a framework for post-secondary institutions to adapt to fulfill commitments outlined in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action.
Topics include:
- Treaties and Dynamics Between Settlers and Indigenous Peoples: Reflecting on the historical agreements and relationships between Indigenous communities and settlers and the complexities and misinterpretations that have influenced these interactions.
- Residential Schools: Examining the impact of residential schools on Indigenous children, families, and communities.
- Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls: Tackling the urgent issue of violence against Indigenous women and girls, shedding light on the systemic factors contributing to this crisis and the ongoing efforts for justice and healing.
- Decolonization: Promoting the value of Indigenous knowledge and approaches, fostering a more equitable society.
- Intergenerational Trauma: Exploring how historical trauma affects Indigenous communities today and paths to healing.
- Resiliency of Indigenous Communities: Celebrating the strength and resilience of Indigenous peoples, this module highlights stories of survival, resistance, and cultural revitalization.
These modules are available online for everyone. Participants will receive a digital recognition of completion after each module.
Durham College is dedicated to advancing truth and reconciliation by weaving Indigenous knowledge and perspectives into the fabric of our campus. Explore this to learn about the resources, supports and opportunities that are available on campus.
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