We arrive now at the end of the Algoma, Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig Fall 2014 term. We are, each one of us, on a learning journey. As it is told through our Anishinabe teachings: The Road to Knowledge is Eternal.
All of us are on the road to knowledge. On this road, every person has his or her goals. The goal to seek and earn a degree is an opportunity to experience an alternative view of education to the dominant society's set track. Your choice to include Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig in your personal learning journey is an honour and privilege for us.
Our mission is to present a culture-based pedagogy, the Anishinabe perspective as it pertains to today's world. The mission includes the truth as the basis of preparing young people for the next steps of their education journey.
A background, precipitating issue and concern is quoted from Peter Joseph, an American activist well known as the creator of the "Zeitgeist" films:
"The last thing the power establishment wants is a conscious, informed public capable of critical thinking, this is why a continuously fraudulent zeitgeist [trend of thought and/or period of comfort for the privileged] output via religion, the mass media, and the educational system exists. It is in their interest to keep you distracted in a naïve bubble and they are doing a damn good job of it. "
We have shared a great deal of the problems, issues and concerns of the Indigenous people of Canada and North America. It is not an effort to stage a forum for blame or indictment, past or present. It is to look, listen, and learn about the ongoing situation. Do not take on blame, do not indict. Consider... with respect. It is the true path of learning.
Instructions for your assignment:
Write a maximum of 4 pages (plus a title page, and references). Your paper should be double-spaced, 12 point font. Anishinabe Studies classes do not require any specific referencing style (e.g. MLA, APA), so you can use the style of your choice. A rubric is attached which outlines how your paper will be graded. This paper is worth 25% of your final mark in the course.
Write about your overall learning experiences this term. Specifically address your experience with the Clan System. Make sure to demonstrate that you have an understanding of the Clan System tenets and philosophy. Can such a governance system be restored, developed and survive in the modern day?