Canada in Focus: A Promise to Share

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In Anishinaabemowin, Gakina Gidagwi’igoomin Anishinaabewiyang means “we are all Treaty People.” What does that mean? And why does it matter? Understanding the spirit and intent of the Treaties is crucial in understanding the Treaty relationship between First Nations and Canada.

According to Elders, First Nations have lived on these lands since the beginning of time and were placed here by Creator. Everything that follows is based on this idea.

In this episode of Canada in Focus, host Darrell Stranger explains the worldview First Nations hold when making Treaty, how settler governments communicated that they understood that perspective, and why Treaty agreements still matter today.

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About the series

History provides a much-needed context for understanding current topics and conversations in today’s society. It helps us understand notions of change, impact, and progress and provides us with tools for interpreting the world around us. In an era of misinformation and increasing divisiveness, history is needed more than ever for encouraging deep thinking and respectful dialogue.

Canada in Focus is a five-part video series that seeks to explain the historical context of current Canadian topics and issues by tracing a current topic back through history, highlighting key events and turning points.

Each video is accompanied by related support material (see below), including teachers’ manuals and strategies, so viewers can engage with the content more deeply.