C5. First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Voices in Contemporary Literature
Specific Expectations
Development of Contemporary Literature
C5.1
identify the contributions of a few individuals, organizations, and initiatives to the development of contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit literature (e.g., individuals: Ruby Slipperjack, Tomson Highway, David Bouchard, Alootook Ipellie; organizations: the Ontario Native Literacy Coalition RIEL Centre; the Canada Council for the Arts; initiatives: summer programs offered by district school boards, creative writing awards for Indigenous youth, the Indigenous Writers’ Gathering)
- How does your local library promote First Nations, Métis, and Inuit authors, or books with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit content? What suggestions could you make to the library to support the development of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit writers?
Influence of Contemporary Literature
C5.2
identify some ways in which contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit literary works contribute to identities and heritage in Canada and/or to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultural revitalization (e.g., educating non-Indigenous individuals about First Nations, Métis, and Inuit perspectives; teaching children about their own cultural and linguistic heritage)
- What influence have storybooks for children written about First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultures had on cultural revitalization in First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities? What challenges do First Nations, Métis, and Inuit writers face in producing these books?
Influence of Technology
C5.3
identify some ways in which technology is being used to help promote the work of contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit writers and publishers (e.g., blogging offers a writing format and distribution channel that gives First Nations, Métis, and Inuit writers an opportunity to express their personal views publicly; social media platforms provide a large audience for readers to share their opinions of new literary work)
