I was invited to present my oral history research at Concordia University, in a graduate class (ARTH 668: Theories and
Methodologies in Art History: Feminist Approaches to Oral History). It’s exciting when opportunities come up that allow me to share my work with other students that have similar interests. Graduate students generally have more experience in research and are in a different place than undergrads. I am truly grateful for these opportunities.
The topic I research (#IndianDaySchools) is a sensitive and difficult topic. I cannot assume that students understand what and Indian Day School is in the first place. I do a general 101 of schooling (Indian Day Schools, Indian Residential Schools) and include mention of child welfare institutions. This work is deeply personal to me. I am very open and candid about my own life experiences and family history. There are risks in being open – vulnerability can mean opportunities for others to do harm. All I can do is live and share my truth.
Niawenhkó:wa to the class for listening and for being respectful.
The instructor (Cynthia) presented me with a beautiful gift, a copy of Rehearsals for Living by Robyn Maynard & Leanne Betasamosake Simpson. I can’t wait to read it 🙂
On a side note, it felt great to be back at Concordia. I missed the vibe there. I don’t miss the parking, construction, and traffic though 😉
~ Wahéhshon