Midterm Assignment

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Thompson Rivers University *

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2140

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Anthropology

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Dec 6, 2023

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ANTH 2140 Xuan Cuong Phan T00644489 Midterm Assignment 1. Indigenous Studies: a. List two features / tenets of Indigenous Studies as an approach. (0.5 x 2 = 1 mark). - Two tenets of Indigenous Studies are: o Multidisciplinary o Critically engaged b. In paragraph form, discuss two ways in which this approach (an Indigenous studies approach) may contribute to your primary field of study or future goals (such as NRS, Social Work, Education, Geography….). In other words, how might the approach taken in this course help inform your future practice in your chosen fields? Please link each of your two responses to specific tenets of Indigenous Studies (2 marks). In the field of nursing, an Indigenous Studies approach can significantly enhance the quality of patient care. By integrating the tenet of respecting Indigenous knowledge systems, healthcare professionals can better understand the cultural, spiritual, and traditional health beliefs of Indigenous patients. This understanding helps create a more patient-centered and culturally competent approach to healthcare. Nurses can collaborate with Indigenous communities to incorporate traditional healing practices and knowledge into treatment plans, respecting the autonomy and self-determination of these communities. Moreover, by recognizing the historical trauma and disparities experienced by Indigenous populations (linked to the concept of decolonization), healthcare providers can actively work to address and rectify health inequities and promote more equitable health outcomes for Indigenous patients. In the field of Social Work, an Indigenous Studies approach aligns with the tenet of self-determination. Social workers can play a pivotal role in supporting Indigenous communities' self-governance and self-sufficiency. By engaging in culturally sensitive and community-led social work practices, professionals can empower Indigenous individuals and communities to address social and economic challenges. This might include assisting communities in developing their social service programs, addressing issues such as substance abuse, domestic violence, and child welfare, and collaborating with Indigenous leaders to shape policies that are more responsive to their unique needs. Moreover, recognizing the historical trauma and injustices experienced by Indigenous populations allows social workers to work collaboratively with these communities to address issues like intergenerational trauma and support the

healing process, thus promoting the overall well-being of Indigenous populations. 2. Colonialism: a. What is colonialism? (1 mark) - Colonialism is the cultural domination of one group by another. b. What is the underlying cultural assumption in the project of colonialism? (1 mark) - Colonialism premised on an assumption of racial superiority. c. In paragraph form discuss the difference between colonialism and settler colonialism and why it matters to understand this difference in the place most dominantly known as Canada. (2 marks) Colonialism is the broader concept of a foreign power exerting control over a territory, typically for economic exploitation and cultural influence. Settler colonialism, a specific form of colonialism, involves settlers from the colonizing power establishing a new society in the colonized land, displacing or subjugating the indigenous population. In Canada, it's crucial to understand this difference because the nation's history is primarily marked by settler colonialism. Recognizing this distinction is vital for addressing the ongoing impact of land dispossession, cultural suppression, and achieving reconciliation with indigenous communities, as well as acknowledging their rights to land and self- determination. Understanding settler colonialism is pivotal for fostering a more just and inclusive society in Canada. d. List three things about colonialism that struck you in the film Babaquaria . Please offer a specific example from the film to illustrate each of your three points. (3 marks) - Power Dynamics and Subversion : The film effectively subverts traditional colonial power dynamics. In the film, indigenous Australians wield authority over the white European colonizers, highlighting how colonialism involves the imposition of one group's values and control over another. For example, the scene where an indigenous Australian official explains to the white European colonizers that they "were here first" humorously inverts the historical narrative. - Cultural Appropriation and Stereotypes : "Babakiueria" playfully exposes the absurdity of cultural appropriation and racial stereotypes that are often perpetuated in colonial contexts. One scene, for instance, portrays indigenous Australians mimicking white European behaviors and clothing, emphasizing how these actions can be seen as caricatures when roles are reversed. - Dehumanization and Lack of Empathy : The film draws attention to the dehumanization and lack of empathy that often occur in colonial situations. The indigenous Australian officials refer to the white European colonizers by

degrading labels, much like how indigenous peoples were often dehumanized in actual colonial contexts. This reflects the dehumanization that can occur when one group dominates and oppresses another. 3. Ways of Knowing: a. As cultural anthropologists, how do we conceptualize / understand / define “ways of knowing”? (1 marks) Ways of knowing are: o Systems of knowledge that guide how the world is understood, interpreted, and experienced. o The lens through which we make sense of and interpret the world. o Collective ‘common sense’ about the way the world is. o Epistemology b. Why is it important to consider “ways of knowing” as part our Indigenous studies approach? (1 mark) - Each cultural community possesses its unique way of perceiving and comprehending the world, forming the foundation for how they organize their society and address their needs. Therefore, incorporating "ways of knowing" into Indigenous studies is a way to challenge colonial perspectives, foster respect for Indigenous cultures, and promote a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable approach to education, research, and social engagement. It enriches our collective knowledge and contributes to a more just and harmonious society. c. Thinking back to the film Reel Injun , how does the concept of “ways of knowing” connect to our conversation about colonialism and settler colonialism, and the politics of representation therein. You are being asked here to elaborate on your response to the question “what is colonialism” through your response to “how do we define ways of knowing” using two specific examples from the film to illustrate your points. (2 marks) - 4. Ecological Zones: a. Name the 6 ecological zones in the territory now most dominantly known as Canada and list one physical feature/characteristic of each (0.5x6=3 marks) - Boreal Forest (Taiga) : The boreal forest, which covers a significant portion of Canada, is characterized by coniferous trees such as spruce, fir, and pine. It is known for its cold winters and vast stretches of dense forest.

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