Displaced People
Themes:
Globalization, Governance, Sovereignty, Justice
Suggested sources:
CD The Peopling of Atlantic Canada – Use index
Canada’s History: Voices and Visions - Unit 5, Chapter 24
Assignment:
1. Imagine that you are part of a legal team representing one of the many cultural groups displaced by a ruling power. The team is representing an oppressed person, one of your ancestors, at a legal hearing. These groups include the following and are not exclusive of any: First Nations people and the Indian Act, First Nations and residential schools, (CD, Chapter 24, also Unit IV, Chapter 20), African Canadians and Africville (CD, Book Chapter 24), Newfoundland Outport resettlement, (Ch. 24), The Scots and Highland Clearances, (CD Scots, Chapter 18), The Irish and the Penal Laws (CD Cultures), Acadians and Expulsion (Chapter 24, CD).
The arguments could be presented to the class. Alternatively, they could be explained to a judge/arbitrator/jury. Explain why you think that your client was wronged by being displaced, and why the policy should be outlawed. Suggest alternative policies. Use period costume if appropriate.