To what extent should contemporary society respond to the legacies of historical globalization? Part B

How are governments responding?

Have current governments acknowledged the need to respond to Indigenous issues resulting from historical globalization? Examine the programs and responses of governments.

Governmental responses may address Aboriginal issues in education, health, and employment.

In Alberta the provincial government has supported many responses. The current Alberta social studies program includes Aboriginal perspectives in the issues and history of the province and country. Educational programs at many levels are established to respond to the diverse cultural and linguistic concerns of First Nations groups in Alberta. Amiskwaciy Academy in Edmonton is a school that integrates Aboriginal culture, language, and traditions. Aboriginal languages such as Blackfoot and Cree are accredited senior high language courses. In addition to Aboriginal perspectives in social studies, Aboriginal studies courses are options available in secondary schools.

Aboriginal issues in health are rooted in the past policies of assimilation. Past governments and non-Aboriginal peoples often dismissed traditional foods, medicines, and ways of healing. Health Canada has responded to the impacts of imposing Western perspectives on food and health by issuing Eating Well with Canada's Food Guide – First Nations, Inuit and Métis. The guide supports healthy eating within Aboriginal ways of life.

Canada's Food Guide

In what ways does the creation of a food guide for Aboriginal peoples represent an attempt to respond to past legacies of imperialism?