Instructed By: Joe Elkerton

(Pilot Training Program. 50% off for THTC Members. Feedback required)

Training Overview:

This training is designed for social service workers in Toronto to gain a thorough understanding of the history and experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Our goal is to equip participants with essential knowledge and strategies to effectively engage with Indigenous communities, in line with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. We will also address the impact of historical and collective trauma on First Nations communities.

Training Components:

1. Historical Context and Identity
   We will explore the journey of Indigenous communities from pre-contact through the colonization period. This session will cover the role of the papal bulls and the church in colonization, and how these historical factors have shaped Indigenous identities and contributed to ongoing trauma. Participants will gain insights into the foundational events that have influenced current Indigenous experiences.
2. Colonial Legislation and Its Impacts
   This segment will provide an overview of key legislative developments, including the Royal Proclamation of 1763 and the Indian Act. We will discuss how these policies have been used in the colonization of Indigenous peoples, including the establishment of reserves and residential schools. Participants will examine the resulting social and cultural impacts on Indigenous communities and the historical roots of contemporary challenges.
3. Resilience and Resistance
   Focusing on resilience, we will address the present-day impacts of historical trauma, including guilt, grief, and intergenerational pain. This session will highlight the strength and resistance demonstrated by Indigenous peoples in overcoming the effects of colonization, residential schools, and the Sixties Scoop. Participants will learn about the ongoing challenges and how resilience has played a crucial role in community survival and empowerment.
4. Reclamation and Healing
   We will explore how the revival of traditional teachings and cultural practices contributes to healing from intergenerational trauma. This segment will emphasize the importance of cultural and spiritual knowledge in fostering recovery and resilience within Indigenous communities. Participants will consider how these practices can inform their work and support collective healing efforts.
5. Indigenous Peoples and the Justice System
   This section will provide a brief overview of the Canadian justice system’s relationship with Indigenous peoples, focusing on issues such as over-incarceration and the development of the Gladue process. Participants will gain an understanding of the systemic challenges faced by Indigenous individuals within the justice system and explore potential reforms and supportive practices.

Training Outcomes:

Participants will develop a deeper understanding of Indigenous experiences and learn effective practices for supporting personal and community transformation. We will identify strategies for building meaningful and respectful relationships with Indigenous clients and communities, enhancing your role as a social service worker.