TakingITGlobal

Whose Land? www.whose.land Discussion Questions: 1. What is the difference between a discussion and debate? This is an extremely import- ant question to start off the lunch-and-learn series with. Possible answers might include that a discussion is open-ended, respectful and participants listen to understand; whereas in a debate there is a winner and a loser, and participants listen to respond. Discussions require an open-mind and debates require a closed mind. Inform the group that this workshop series will require participants to have respectful dis- cussions rather than debates. Remind participants that the topics discussed in this workshop have a direct impact on the lives of Indigenous people and might be emotionally triggering, which is why it is essential that participants engage with these topics respectfully and with empathy. 2. Share a bit about your ancestral background. Where are your ancestors from? Do you know what their experience was like with the Canadian government? 3. Share something about your culture that you value. Hint: Encourage participants to recognize that Canadian culture includes traditions such as celebrating birthdays and national holidays. 4. How diverse is your social circle? Do you have social relationships with people from different religions, cultures, ethnicities and/or sexual orientations? 5. On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate your knowledge about Indigenous peoples his- tory, culture, and current topics? 6. Discuss what you know about the history of the land we are all on right now. Examples of discussion points might include the names of Indigenous nations, names of treaties or settlement agreements, other historical events in the area etc… 7. Describe a place that is important to you. What makes it so special to you? Examples might include your house, a place where you have a special memory, your home coun- try, a grave site etc... 8. How would you feel if you were no longer able to access this place? How would you feel if this special place was destroyed? Note: This might be a reality for many partici- pants, Indigenous and newcomer participants alike. 9. Why do you think some people have a different connection to land and place? Answers might include personal experiences and histories. 10. What is the definition of a stereotype? Where do stereotypes comes from? A stereotype is "an exaggerated belief, image or distorted truth about a person or group—a general- ization that allows for little or no individual differences or social variation. Stereotypes are based on images in mass media, or reputations passed on by parents, peers and other members of society. Stereotypes can be positive or negative." 3 11. What do you think the definition of prejudice is? A prejudice is "an opinion, prejudgment or attitude about a group or its individual members. A prejudice can be positive, but in our usage refers to a negative attitude. Prejudices are often accompanied by ignorance, fear or hatred. Prejudices are formed by a complex psychological process that begins with attachment to a close circle of acquaintances or an "in-group" such as a family. Prejudice is often aimed at "out-groups." 4 12. What is the definition of discrimination? What are some examples of discrimination? How do you think stereotypes and prejudice lead to discrimination? Discrimination is "behavior that treats people unequally because of their group memberships. Dis- criminatory behavior, ranging from slights to hate crimes, often begins with negative stereotypes and prejudices." 5 13. What topics related to Indigenous culture, history and current topics do you want to learn more about? Thank participants for engaging in the group discussions respectfully and honestly. Inform 3 Southern Poverty Law Centre . (n.d.). Test Yourself for Hidden Bias. Learning for Justice. https://www.learningforjustice.org/ professional-development/test-yourself-for-hidden-bias. 4 Southern Poverty Law Centre . (n.d.). Test Yourself for Hidden Bias. Learning for Justice. https://www.learningforjustice.org/ professional-development/test-yourself-for-hidden-bias. 5 Southern Poverty Law Centre . (n.d.). Test Yourself for Hidden Bias. Learning for Justice. https://www.learningforjustice.org/ professional-development/test-yourself-for-hidden-bias.

• Professional Development Series