‘Nwilho’ya (Tools)
Transforming Learning Spaces and Experiences with Indigenous Knowledges
Stay informed with insights, reflections, and new resources from Jo’s work in Indigenous education and anti-racist practices.
First Peoples Principles of Learning Resources
Grounded in Indigenous Knowledge Systems
The First Peoples Principles of Learning offer a powerful framework for reimagining how we teach and how students learn. Developed by Indigenous educators and knowledge keepers, these principles center relationships, land, story, and the whole person, inviting all educators to reflect on and reshape their practice in meaningful, culturally grounded ways.
FPPL Professional Development Activity
Becoming Anti-Racist in Canada: A Journey
Resources for Reflection, Learning, and Action
Becoming anti-racist is not a destination; it is an ongoing, courageous commitment to examining systems, unlearning harmful narratives, and taking meaningful action. The video and reading resources below offer entry points for educators and learners at various stages of that journey, from understanding privilege and microaggressions to exploring the deeper roots of racism and colonialism in Canada.
For watching:
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“What is Cultural Humility?” Psych Hub, YouTube (2:30 minutes)
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How to change systemic racism in CanadaTVO Docs, YouTube (5:07 minutes)
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Teenagers Discuss Microaggressions and Racism SheKnows Media - KidSpeak Program, YouTube (1:49 minutes)
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Professional Standard 9 – Truth and Reconciliation, Moving Forward Together Government of BC, YouTube (7:50 minutes)
For reading:
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Settler Fragility: Why Settler Privilege is So Hard to Talk About
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Why It’s Important to Think About Privilege—and Why It’s Hard Global Citizen
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Privilege Walk Lesson Plan Peace Learner
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“We Built a Life From Nothing” White Settler Colonialism and the Myth of Meritocracy By Sheelah McLean, Policy Alternatives
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In Plain Sight: Addressing Indigenous-specific Racism and Discrimination in B.C. Health Care (See pages 10-13), Addressing Racism Review Summary Report 2020. Métis Nation British Columbia and Government of BC
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Racism in Schools: A Barrier to Education Among Aboriginal Students BC Antiracism Research. Produced by Directions Evidence and Policy Research Group for BC Ministry of Education and First Nation Education Steering Committee
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Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action
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Cultural Genocide Facing History & Ourselves
Additional Resources
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Racial Equity Together: K-12 Anti-Racism Action Plan Ministry of Education and Child Care
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Indigenous Writes: A Guide to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Issues in Canada, by Chelsea Vowel (Portage & Main Press, 2016).
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“Silencing Aboriginal Curricular Content and Perspectives Through Multiculturalism: ‘There Are Other Children Here.’” by Verna St. Denis (2011).
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Decolonizing Methodologies: Research and Indigenous Peoples, by Linda Tuhiwai Smith (Zed Books, 1999).
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Decolonizing Education: Nourishing the Learning Spirit, by Marie Battiste (Purich Publishing, 2013).
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“Indigenization Guide: The Indian Act,” from Pulling Together: Foundations Guide, by Kory Wilson (BCcampus, 2018).
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BC First Nations, Land, Title, and Governance Teacher Resource Guide (First Nations Education Steering Committee, 2019).
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BC Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan, Government of BC
ORGANIZATION RESOURCES
Expanding Your Knowledge and Network
The work of reconciliation and Indigenous education is strengthened when we connect with the communities, networks, and organizations already doing this work. Whether you're looking for curriculum support, advocacy connections, or professional learning opportunities, the organizations below offer valuable resources to help deepen your practice and extend your reach.
BC-Based First Nations Education Advocacy and Support Organizations
Supporting Inquiry-Based Indigenous Education in BC, Canada, and Internationally
Teacher Resources
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First Nations Education Steering Committee (FNESC) Teacher Resource Guides
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Continuing Our Learning Journey: Indigenous Education in BC (Open School BC)
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Indian Residential School History and Dialogue Centre (University of British Columbia)
Additional Organizations