Decolonization in Action: Settler Engagement in an Indigenous Course Requirement

Abstract

In 2021, Indigenous Course Requirement courses (ICR) became mandatory at the University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus. For students, this meant attending Indigenous Studies 100: Introduction to Decolonization, which presented many challenges–most notably an influx of settler students into the Indigenous Studies program which placed the cultural safety of Indigenous instructors and students at risk. This paper explores the implementation of this ICR and asks critical questions surrounding the role of settler scholars as universities respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and move to educate their students about contemporary Indigenous peoples and issues in Canada.