Anti-Indigenous racism refers to the ongoing discrimination, stereotypes, and systemic barriers faced by Indigenous Peoples in Canada rooted in colonial policies and practices.
It is reinforced through laws like the Indian Act, the legacy of residential schools, and systemic inequities seen in education, health, child welfare, and the justice system. These impacts are measurable in overrepresentation in foster care and incarceration, as well as disparities in well-being and academic outcomes.
Addressing this requires awareness and action: naming racism when we see it, dismantling barriers, and creating space to celebrate Indigenous cultures, teachings, and stories.
Elementary and middle school video storybook resources
Elementary and middle school novels and stories
- Shi-shi-etko by Nicola I. Campbell (5-7-year-olds)
- Ancestor Approved by Cynthia Leitich Smith (8-12-year-olds)
- The Barren Grounds by David Robertson (10-12-year-olds)
- Borders by Thomas King (10 years old+)
- Braiding Sweet Grass for Young Adults – Monique Gray Smith (12 years old+)
Secondary school and mature novels and stories
- 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act by Bob Joseph (mature)
- All Our Relations by Tanya Talaga (mature)
- From the Ashes by Jesse Thistle (mature)
- Indigenous Relations by Bob Joseph and Cynthia F. Joseph (mature)
- The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King (mature)
- This Place – 150 Years Retold by Katerie Akiwenzie-Dame, Sonny Assu, Brandon Mitchell, et al. (mature)