Colonialism and Racism
The film excerpts in this theme show the devastating effects of European colonialist policies on Aboriginal peoples. They also show acts of racism in which Aboriginal peoples have been victimized in their relations with whites.
Excerpts
Ojigkwanong - Encounter with an Algonquin Sage
2000, Director: Ouimet, Lucie
excerpt 1 1 min 36 s
Description
William Commanda’s Algonquin name is Ojigkwanong. Chief of the Maniwaki Reserve in Quebec from 1951-1970, he recalls how Indian Affairs agents exercised complete control of Indian reserves in 1978 and treated Aboriginals with contempt.
Questions
1. How did the role of Indian Agent undermine the sovereignty of the Maniwaki Band Council?
2. How is William Commanda’s understanding of civilization different from that of the Indian Agent? Which perspective do you more closely identify with and why?




