Module 4: Racism and Colonization 

The concept of race, and thus the emergence of racial discrimination, stems from colonization and enslavement practices. The colonial legacy of Canada set the precedent for racism against BIPOC communities. This video explores the historic justification for colonization, and violent anti-Indigenous racism after the Europeans arrived on this land.


Watch the video below about how the onset of colonialism in Canada and how it affected Indigenous communities. Keep a lookout for the answers to the following questions:  

  • What was the Doctrine of Discovery?
  • What are a few examples of actions taken to oppress the Indigenous community?
  • How has colonization and colonialism shaped Canada’s systems today? 

Reflection Questions

Take some time to think about what you learned. Answer the reflection questions below to help deepen your learning. 

  1. What is your ancestry? Was your family’s history affected by colonization? 
  2. How will you deepen your knowledge of the true history of Canada? 
  3. What is your responsibility in relation to Indigenous sovereignty? 
  4. Why do you think territorial acknowledgements are important? 

Test Your Understanding

After viewing the video and reflecting on what you learned, we invite you to test your knowledge with this short quiz!