11 - Speak up when you hear someone making derogatory remarks about Indigenous Peoples
This series of blog posts is inspired by the list 21 Things You Can Do to Change the World created by Bob Joseph in his book 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act. Focusing on actionable steps, these blog posts will take each step and provide links, contacts, and suggestion lists.
View all of our 21 Things posts here.
The next action we are highlighting is Speak up when you hear someone making derogatory remarks about Indigenous Peoples.
The way that stereotypes continue to be circulated in our community is because of silence. When you are having dinner with a family member, and they use a derogatory word or make a joke that references Indigenous Peoples, and you say nothing you are allowing this person to continue a narrative of white supremacy. The irony of this action is that on the surface it seems simple to do, and yet it can paralyze many people who do not want to cause a disturbance or confront strangers or loved ones.
The importance of this action can not be underestimated. By making this uncomfortable step you will make a difference. In the least it will alert this individual or group that you are not complicit in their racist comment and/or belief. In the best-case scenario, you will begin a conversation that will plant seeds of change in the mind and heart of a person who has been misinformed or has judged Indigenous Peoples unfairly.
Below you will find resources to help you begin these conversations. Often, especially if you are a white person, you will need to begin by confronting your own internalized racism and understand that this is a journey that we are all on together. Begin where you are and make a commitment to be anti-racist going forward.
Why you need to keep talking about racism with your white family
The Public Service Alliance of Canada’s Anti-Racism Resources for White People
These blog posts are designed to be a starting point to help people toward the path of reconciliation and allyship. We encourage everyone to do their own reading and research. Want to learn more? Check out the Indigenous Relations Academy, which has books, training, and resources. You can also purchase 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act here.