Pedagogy of the Decolonizing | Quetzala Carson | TEDxUAlberta

Summary

In this compelling talk, the speaker addresses the impact of colonialism and the ongoing consequences of broken treaties, emphasizing the need for honest dialogue about uncomfortable truths. They share personal experiences and insights gained from teaching about decolonization, highlighting the importance of recognizing and combating colonial violence in our lives and institutions. The speaker offers strategies for addressing these issues, including calling out problematic behaviors, fostering understanding, and creating supportive communities. Ultimately, they inspire listeners to engage in meaningful conversations and actions that promote healing and solidarity among diverse groups.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Acknowledgment of Indigenous Lands: The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and respecting the territories of various Indigenous nations, including the Blackfoot, Cree, Dakota, and Métis.
• ✍️ Broken Treaties: The speaker highlights the ongoing impact of broken treaties and colonial violence, which continues to shape relationships and interactions in the present.
• 😟 Embracing Discomfort: The talk encourages participants to consent to discomfort as a necessary part of discussing colonialism and its implications.
• 📚 Educator's Role: The speaker identifies themselves as a teacher who constantly engages in conversations about decolonization in various settings, aiming to create awareness.
• 🔄 Collective Healing: The need for communal engagement and healing in addressing colonial violence is emphasized, focusing on collective rather than individual action.
• 🤝 Strategies Against Colonial Violence: The speaker outlines five strategies for combating colonial violence, highlighting the importance of personal reflection and relationship-building.
• 🗣️ Call-Out Culture: Care must be taken when calling out others for problematic behavior, as it can sometimes lead to defensiveness rather than constructive dialogue.
• ⏳ Importance of Time: Allowing for time to process and understand when dealing with confrontations is crucial for effective communication and relationship-building.
• 💡 Weaponizing Knowledge: The speaker aims to empower the audience with tools and knowledge to combat colonial violence and encourage self-acceptance.
• 🌱 Building Community: The talk concludes with a call to action for creating a supportive community focused on decolonization and collective growth.

Q & A

What does the speaker mean by acknowledging broken treaties?

The speaker highlights that the treaties, specifically Treaty Six, have been broken numerous times, which affects the rights and existence of Indigenous peoples on their ancestral lands.

How does the speaker define colonialism?

Colonialism is described as a nation-state taking over another territory to extract its resources while imposing its own values and beliefs, which creates a legacy of oppression.

What is the significance of the phrase 'panic is not prayerful'?

This phrase serves as a reminder to approach uncomfortable situations with calmness and reflection rather than fear or panic, encouraging thoughtful engagement with difficult topics.

What are the five strategies for addressing colonial violence presented by the speaker?

The strategies include: 1) Do Nothing; 2) Call Out; 3) Call In; 4) Ask for Time; and 5) Bring It Home, each focusing on different approaches to addressing and discussing colonial violence.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of understanding one’s position as oppressor or oppressed?

Understanding these dynamics helps individuals navigate their roles within systems of power and oppression, fostering greater empathy and effective engagement in discussions about colonial violence.

What role does community play in combating colonial violence according to the speaker?

Community is crucial for collective action and support in decolonization efforts, encouraging individuals to share experiences and strategies to confront colonialism together.

How does the speaker describe the impact of colonial violence on educational institutions?

The speaker notes that colonial violence shapes the curriculum and practices in educational institutions, often marginalizing Indigenous knowledge and perspectives.

What does the speaker suggest about the relationship between colonial violence and personal discomfort?

The speaker indicates that discomfort often arises from confronting the realities of colonial violence, and engaging with this discomfort is essential for personal and communal growth.

How does the speaker advocate for approaching calls to action in a thoughtful manner?

The speaker encourages individuals to be mindful and compassionate when calling out problematic behavior, emphasizing the need to create a safe environment for dialogue.

In what ways does the speaker suggest individuals can engage in decolonization efforts?

Individuals can engage in decolonization by reflecting on their own actions, participating in community discussions, educating themselves about colonial history, and advocating for Indigenous rights and representation.