Fall/Winter Timetable

POL2026H1F L0101

Undergraduate Course Code: POL484H1F L0101

Topics in Political Thought I

Settler Indigenous Relations in Canada

Themes

This course examines the goal of Indigenous-Settler reconciliation in Canada as read through the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. How well is Canada doing in meeting the TRC’s recommendations? More specifically, the course will trace local, provincial and federal governments’ responsiveness to the TRC Calls to Action that pertain to compliance with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Student research papers will contribute to the Canadian Political Science Association’s Reconciliation monitoring project.

Texts

Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, Summary of Final Report; United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples; Leanne Betasamosake Simpson, Dancing on Our Turtle’s Back; Arthur Manuel, A Reconciliation Manifesto; Peter Russell, Canada’s Odyssey; John Borrows and Michael Coyle, The Right Relationship.

Format and Requirements

Weekly 3-hour seminar. Students will prepare an original research paper on the current state of Canada’s compliance with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Other requirements include weekly participation and short response papers.