Thank-you to Emma, our Student Clerk, for this month’s blog! Emma Tallen is a community member and former co-chief of the Indigenous Youth leadership Group at our local high school.
As of January you may have noticed a new Collection of books at the Library. I have created a space in the Library for books written by Indigenous authors. The intention for this collection is to create a spotlight for Indigenous authors and to support reconciliation in our community. Firstly there is an adult fiction and non-fiction Indigenous author collection. Secondly a young adult fiction, non-fiction and graphic novel indigenous author collection. Thirdly there is a junior fiction and non-fiction Indigenous author collection, as well as a children’s picture book Indigenous author collection.
What is Indigenous literature?
Indigenous literature is all books written by First Nations, Metis and Inuit authors.
How does reading Indigenous literature support Reconciliation?
Books written by Indigenous people are not only for Indigenous people. As a settler, it is important to read books written by Indigenous authors as this helps to decolonize ways of thinking that have been integrated into our society by colonialism. It gives people the opportunity to learn about different cultures, and provide knowledge on the experiences and perspectives of Indigenous people who have been historically marginalized and ignored especially in the media. By reading Indigenous literature, it can break pre-existing stereotypes that exist in our present society. Reading Indigenous literature is a great way to support Indigenous authors, support reconciliation, and learn about Indigenous culture, history and their struggles.
Have Indigenous people always been allowed to publish books?
Canada had no specific policy that stated “Indigenous people can’t publish books”. But the Indian Act made it illegal for Indigenous people to practice, teach, or share cultural traditions, knowledge and language, including stories. This consequently made it difficult for Indigenous people to get their books published. Prevalent racism also made it difficult for Indigenous authors to find editors and publishers willing to publish their stories. In addition to the barriers of racism and legal policies, Indigenous works have largely been ignored in favour of British-descended writers and their perspectives on Indigenous peoples and histories.
Why having a collection of Indigenous authors in our Library is important to me
I believe it is so important to create a space for Indigenous literature in our Library, for both Indigenous people as well as non-Indigenous people looking to learn about and support Indigenous peoples.
As a reconnecting Indigenous person and settler, Indigenous literature has played a major role in my journey to reconnecting with Annishinanabe culture, and reconciliation. For many Indigenous people around Canada, there is a struggle to regain and learn the culture and traditions that were lost due to residential schools and cultural assimilation. By having Indigenous literature be easily accessible and labelled in our Library, it’s easier for ALL people to find the knowledge that they are seeking, whether you’re Indigenous or not.