First Nations University introduces reconciliation studies program – CBC

Program born of ‘deficits’ in education on residential schools, says instructor

Aug 28, 2017

A new program at the First Nations University of Canada is giving one student a fresh perspective on the history of Canada’s residential schools.

According to the school’s website, the program “focuses on recognizing the shared history of Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples and the need to promote healing, equity and respect for … Indigenous cultures and values in Canadian Society.” It’s an 18-credit certificate.

Merelda Fiddler, an instructor at the university and former CBC journalist, teaches in the program and said the program was born of “deficits” in education and curriculum, noting that there are people who never learned about residential schools.

Terry-Lynn McNab, a band councillor on the George Gordon First Nation, said she took the course because she felt it would give her some ideas to take back to her community.