Good Intentions and Their Limits in the Quest for Truth and Reconciliation
The landscape of Truth and Reconciliation in Canada is often punctuated by ‘good intentions,’ that in practice, fail to accomplish the transformative change that is urgently needed. Symbolic gestures, limited engagements, and superficial policies are the most glaring manifestations of such failed intentions. The ephemeral nature of these efforts belies a lack of systemic commitment…
Decolonizing Professional Responsibility in the Legal Profession: An Examination of Respect and Bravery from the Seven Grandfather Teachings
The legal profession, much like other institutional structures, is deeply interwoven with the legacies of colonialism, which have often led to the marginalization of Indigenous voices and perspectives. Recognizing this legacy is the first crucial step in the journey towards transformation—a journey that necessitates not a mere shift but a profound metamorphosis in our attitudes,…
Legal Reflections on Indigenous History Month: Decolonization and Anti-capitalism in Canada
Each June, Indigenous History Month serves as a period of acknowledgement and celebration of the cultures, histories, and contributions of Indigenous nations across what we currently identify as Canada. As legal academics, we have a duty not only to honour the resilience, wisdom, and heritage of these communities but also to critically assess systemic forces…
“Defying White Narratives: Indigenous Empowerment Through Reclaiming ‘Last'”
As an Indigenous person, confronting the label of “mediocre” in a white-dominated world is a complex and emotionally charged issue, especially when other white individuals bear witness to the ensuing struggle. The term “mediocre,” as experienced by Indigenous individuals, signifies both a personal and systemic problem, encompassing challenges of assimilation, cultural identity, and the consequences…
The Seven Grandfather Teachings: An Ethical Framework For Decolonizing Legal Practice
The Seven Grandfather Teachings are a set of guiding principles that have been passed down through generations by the Anishnaabe Nations. These teachings include Wisdom, Love, Respect, Bravery, Honesty, Humility, and Truth, and offer a powerful foundation for ethical lawyering and decolonizing legal practices and systems. These teachings can be applied in legal practice to…