A3. Self-Determination and Nationhood
Specific Expectations
A3.1
explain how the concepts of sovereignty, self-governance, and nationhood are expressed through a variety of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit art forms (e.g., with reference to peace pipes, wampum belts, Métis sashes, the Nunavut flag, Métis flags, the Eagle Staff, flag songs, ceremonial regalia, dance regalia), analysing the purpose and function of these art forms in social policy and/or the representation of world views
- Did the introduction of the Nunavut flag unite the territory?
- How and when is a wampum belt used?
- How do nations differentiate themselves through art forms at powwows, intertribal gatherings, and Elder/youth gatherings?
- What are some historical interpretations of the Métis flag? How is the Métis flag used within Métis organizations and at rendezvous and annual general assemblies?
- What does an Eagle Staff reveal about the nation that created it? Why does the Eagle Staff need a helper, or Eagle Staff carrier, to be present to enable the art form to perform its function? Why is this cultural expression of sovereignty referred to as a living spirit?
A3.2
explain some consequences of various pieces of Canadian legislation for past and present First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultural and artistic expressions of sovereignty and/or self-governance (e.g., the Indian Act amendment of 1885 prohibited religious ceremonies and dances for Indians as defined by the Act; section 35(1) of the Constitution Act, 1982, recognizes First Nations, Métis, and Inuit as three separate groups of Indigenous peoples with unique heritages, languages, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs; Canadian intellectual property rights legislation, such as the Copyright Act, the Patent Act, and the Trade-marks Act, does not explicitly protect traditional knowledge expressed through First Nations, Métis, and Inuit art forms and arts disciplines)
- Why do you think legislation is needed to address the issue of misappropriation of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultural knowledge, language, and traditions? How is this issue connected to artistic expression?
- What are some ways that legislation to protect cultural products and Indigenous knowledge might affect both Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists?
- How might current copyright law be shaped to better protect the unique traditions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists?
