In this three-part blog, I will reflect on different aspects of colonialism and how that has impacted Indigenous identity from my perspective. In this post, I will reflect on behaviours classified as white or “Indian” by colonial spectators. I will also draw on my experiences growing up with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous relations.

In this three-part blog, I will reflect on different aspects of colonialism and how that has impacted Indigenous identity from my perspective. Colonialism has impacted, controlled, and, in some cases, changed Indigenous identities. As an Indigenous person who also happens to be a historian, it is evident that the qualities that shaped Canada were heavily dependent on my ancestors’ assimilation and dehumanization—clearing them out so that newcomers could find prosperity.

More than 26 years after receiving a boil water advisory the people of Neskantaga First Nation are still asking for safe water - a basic human right. The lack of safe water in this community has significantly decreased the quality of life for its members resulting in medical, health, and safety issues.

March 22nd marks World Water Day, a day established by the United Nations to celebrate and protect clean water. Too many people view water as a resource: something we consume that is necessary for life, and that people in many parts of the world can’t access.

A single drinking water advisory can mean as many as 5,000 people lack access to safe, clean drinking water. In 2018, there were 174 drinking water advisories in over 100 First Nations, with some communities being without safe water for over 20 years. This should be history.

In this three-part blog, I will reflect on different aspects of colonialism and how that has impacted Indigenous identity from my perspective. The first will focus on the legislative foundations of control. Written by Skylee-Storm Hogan (Stacey).