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21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act
Based on a viral article, 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act is the essential guide to understanding the legal document and its repercussion on generations of Indigenous Peoples, written by a leading cultural sensitivity trainer.
Since its creation in 1876, the Indian Act has shaped, controlled, and constrained the lives and opportunities of Indigenous Peoples, and is at the root of many enduring stereotypes. Bob Joseph’s book comes at a key time in the reconciliation process, when awareness from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities is at a crescendo. Joseph explains how Indigenous Peoples can step out from under the Indian Act and return to self-government, self-determination, and self-reliance—and why doing so would result in a better country for every Canadian. He dissects the complex issues around truth and reconciliation, and clearly demonstrates why learning about the Indian Act’s cruel, enduring legacy is essential for the country to move toward true reconciliation.
Since its creation in 1876, the Indian Act has shaped, controlled, and constrained the lives and opportunities of Indigenous Peoples, and is at the root of many enduring stereotypes. Bob Joseph’s book comes at a key time in the reconciliation process, when awareness from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities is at a crescendo. Joseph explains how Indigenous Peoples can step out from under the Indian Act and return to self-government, self-determination, and self-reliance—and why doing so would result in a better country for every Canadian. He dissects the complex issues around truth and reconciliation, and clearly demonstrates why learning about the Indian Act’s cruel, enduring legacy is essential for the country to move toward true reconciliation.
160 pages, Paperback
First published April 10, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,210 reviews
December 18, 2018
Should be mandatory reading for every Canadian.
June 18, 2020
I don’t even know where to start with this book. It’s heartbreaking and disgusting to think that the country I live in could be so racist. I also feel terribly uneducated, I had never heard of the Indian Act before and I had no idea how badly Indigenous Peoples were treated by Canada. But it is my responsibility as a Canadian to know and to educate myself about my country and to fight against such terrible injustices being inflicted. After reading this book, I vow to do better and fight racial injustice in my country in every way that I can. It is incredibly well written and very easy to understand despite the complicated and very heavy subject matter. I think this is an absolutely NECESSARY read for every single Canadian, it should be mandatory reading in schools. If you think Canada is not a racist country and if you think that with what’s happening in the States right now that we are above them because we are not a racist country, think again and look into it. Racism is very present in Canada and always has been.
January 30, 2024
Though not an easy book to read both because of the tragic content and the dry but necessary legal terminology used throughout, '21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act' is essential reading for anyone who seeks to understand the serious harm the Indian Act has caused--and continues to cause--Indigenous peoples today.
It details the ways in which first the British and later the Canadian governments systematically tried to erase Indigenous people from the face of the earth and makes it very clear --in spite of public apologies and vows to do better--that the government has not done nearly enough to ameliorate the lives of indigenous people today. There is so much work left to be done.
One of the things I most liked about this book is the section on 'calls to action' that each and every Canadian can take--starting right now. For example: attend National Indigenous Peoples' Day events each June 21st, read books by Indigenous authors (yourself and to your children), attend Indigenous film and music festivals as well as a potlatches and pow wows, donate sports equipment to Indigenous communities, eat at an Indigenous restaurant, learn Indigenous names for the place where you live--all manageable and even pleasurable actions to take.
To this list, I would add watching Decolonization Is for Everyone, a TEDx talk by Nikki Sanchez:
https://youtu.be/QP9x1NnCWNY
I encourage my fellow Canadians to read this book and take action starting today.
It details the ways in which first the British and later the Canadian governments systematically tried to erase Indigenous people from the face of the earth and makes it very clear --in spite of public apologies and vows to do better--that the government has not done nearly enough to ameliorate the lives of indigenous people today. There is so much work left to be done.
One of the things I most liked about this book is the section on 'calls to action' that each and every Canadian can take--starting right now. For example: attend National Indigenous Peoples' Day events each June 21st, read books by Indigenous authors (yourself and to your children), attend Indigenous film and music festivals as well as a potlatches and pow wows, donate sports equipment to Indigenous communities, eat at an Indigenous restaurant, learn Indigenous names for the place where you live--all manageable and even pleasurable actions to take.
To this list, I would add watching Decolonization Is for Everyone, a TEDx talk by Nikki Sanchez:
https://youtu.be/QP9x1NnCWNY
I encourage my fellow Canadians to read this book and take action starting today.
December 24, 2020
Very interesting! I learned a lot from this book and I think that it should be mandatory reading in schools so we are more educated on our country's history. I had previously read stuff on residential schools but knew very little about everything else that was talked about in this book. The way the Aboriginal people of our country were and are treated is appalling. It is heartbreaking to read about and crazy to think that anyone could have possibly thought that what they were doing to them was helpful or beneficial in any way. The stuff done obviously came from a place of greed, selfishness, pride and fear and I am ashamed for both the way they were treated and for how little knowledge I possessed regarding this treatment. This is a very short read and although it includes a lot of the actual laws and policies as they were written, it is described in a very clear and easy to understand way. I definitely recommend this read.
November 3, 2021
Having a great interest in Canadian politics and the state of my country, I was eager to read this book, in hopes of learning a thing or two (or even, 21). Bob Joseph not only explores the damning legislation known as the Indian Act, but also explains its importance to Canadians and how it must be dismantled and significantly changed in an era of reconciliation with First Nations people. While it is not a complicated read, it is surely a difficult one to swallow, as many of the atrocities committed by the Canadian Government, hidden in legislative outcomes, surface throughout.
While there are many issues that Joseph brings to light in his short book, perhaps the most troublesome is the use of residential schools to ‘assimilate’ the young to Canadian ways. While these schools have been closed for a number of years, the damage they have done to young people for generations cannot be overlooked. I won’t go into detail surrounding the abuses suffered or the psychological aftermath, but Joseph makes it quite clear that many of the stories that emerge in the news are not exaggerations, before pointing to parts of the Indian Act where they are sanctioned, or any least not discounted.
While there are many countries who likely have issues when it comes to their pre-settlement populations, Canada has a significant bruise that must be handled. Commissions and cross-country explorations have taken place, with many recommendations issued to correct the wrongs. It is time to look past simply applauding the list that was made and move into taking action. Bob Joseph offers no concrete solutions, but rather permits the lay reader to see what has been said and the recommendations determined by groups to rectify some of the issues. It is time for action and education, two things that cannot be dismissed for another time.
Kudos, Mr. Joseph, for a great read. I took so much away from this book. I hope to explore thee subject further with more of your writing before long.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
While there are many issues that Joseph brings to light in his short book, perhaps the most troublesome is the use of residential schools to ‘assimilate’ the young to Canadian ways. While these schools have been closed for a number of years, the damage they have done to young people for generations cannot be overlooked. I won’t go into detail surrounding the abuses suffered or the psychological aftermath, but Joseph makes it quite clear that many of the stories that emerge in the news are not exaggerations, before pointing to parts of the Indian Act where they are sanctioned, or any least not discounted.
While there are many countries who likely have issues when it comes to their pre-settlement populations, Canada has a significant bruise that must be handled. Commissions and cross-country explorations have taken place, with many recommendations issued to correct the wrongs. It is time to look past simply applauding the list that was made and move into taking action. Bob Joseph offers no concrete solutions, but rather permits the lay reader to see what has been said and the recommendations determined by groups to rectify some of the issues. It is time for action and education, two things that cannot be dismissed for another time.
Kudos, Mr. Joseph, for a great read. I took so much away from this book. I hope to explore thee subject further with more of your writing before long.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Read
July 13, 2021I don't rate non-fiction but if I did this would get five stars. This was never going to be a comfortable experience but the way this guide was broken down, the way it made the policies and regulations easy to understand, and then how that related in the moment, and the impacts (both then and now), was done so well. It felt like the perfect way to begin this journey of learning, understanding, and reconciliation; because this is far from the end of it.
The tragic reality is that what should have been a positive and respectful code of conduct degenerated over time into one in which government policies led to cultural genocide, assimilation, theft of land, denial of treaty and constitutional rights, racism, and increasingly punitive laws meant to control every aspect of the lives and deaths of the original inhabitants of what is now Canadian territory.
This history (which is not actually history but still ongoing) is horrible, upsetting, and in some cases absolutely diabolical. Watching it unfold, seeing how these regulations were put in place and modified or amended when it suited, was just.. stunning. As in I was stunned stupid by it. Reading the chapter(s) on the residential schools would've been horrible at any point but is especially awful in light of the discoveries from the past few weeks. Which just goes back to my point that this isn't historical; we are living it even now.
Aboriginal Peoples have preserved their identities under adverse conditions. They have safeguarded their traditions during many decades when non-Aboriginal officials attempted to regulate every aspect of their lives.
This should be required reading for every Canadian currently living on this land but also for everyone beyond. Highly recommend you pick this up and I hope to have many more recommendations for you as I discover them myself.
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
The tragic reality is that what should have been a positive and respectful code of conduct degenerated over time into one in which government policies led to cultural genocide, assimilation, theft of land, denial of treaty and constitutional rights, racism, and increasingly punitive laws meant to control every aspect of the lives and deaths of the original inhabitants of what is now Canadian territory.
This history (which is not actually history but still ongoing) is horrible, upsetting, and in some cases absolutely diabolical. Watching it unfold, seeing how these regulations were put in place and modified or amended when it suited, was just.. stunning. As in I was stunned stupid by it. Reading the chapter(s) on the residential schools would've been horrible at any point but is especially awful in light of the discoveries from the past few weeks. Which just goes back to my point that this isn't historical; we are living it even now.
Aboriginal Peoples have preserved their identities under adverse conditions. They have safeguarded their traditions during many decades when non-Aboriginal officials attempted to regulate every aspect of their lives.
This should be required reading for every Canadian currently living on this land but also for everyone beyond. Highly recommend you pick this up and I hope to have many more recommendations for you as I discover them myself.
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
February 21, 2021
I read so I can learn and I definitely feel one of the biggest lies I was told in school was that the Governor General of Canada was merely a figurehead. I guess my high school teachers needed to do some research. Based on Bob Joseph's popular blog, this book informs readers about the act that has been in power since 1876. It includes appendices of Canada's Statement of Apology on the residential school system, the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and how all Canadians can participate in the reconciliation process. My next step is to continue reading, learning and listening.
Informative. Enlightening. Required Reading
Goodreads review published 21/02/21
Informative. Enlightening. Required Reading
Goodreads review published 21/02/21
November 2, 2018
21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act: Helping Canadians Make Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples a Reality by Bob Joseph, is a critical examination of Canada's Indian Act, a piece of policy that dictates the relationship between the Canadian government, and Aboriginal Nations in Canada. This Act is widely seen in modern times as a discriminatory relic of Canada's colonial past, and the terms and conditions of this Act have been highly damaging to the livelihoods, traditions and cultures, and well being of both Aboriginal Nations, and individuals within these nations. Joseph breaks down the Act into 21 easily digestible points. This is to make the book easily readable by the average Canadian, in order to facilitate the Reconciliation process within Canada.
The 21 points are varied, but generally illustrate the damaging effects the Indian Act has had on Aboriginal and Indigenous cultures within Canada. The terms of the Act have varied over time, with many of the more discriminatory terms being repealed - however, the nature of the Act itself still maintains a discriminatory relationship between the Canadian government, and Aboriginal Nations. Some of the terms include terrifying examples of cultural genocide: removing the right to free movement of Aboriginal peoples without the granting of a permit by an Agent of the Crown, for example. The Act set up the Residential Schools establishments in Canada: highly damaging organizations that forcibly removed children from their families in order to assimilate them faster into "Canadian society". This was done by banning the use of Aboriginal languages, promoting Christian and British education, and making traditional cultural practices illegal. It also removed children from their communities - alienating them from their parents, families, and Nations. These schools were disasters, with many thousands of children dying from disease within these poorly run, and neglected institutions. Sexual and physical abuse were also prevalent, as Aboriginal children did not enjoy any form of protection from abuse. The legacy of these schools lives on today; the last Residential School was only closed in 1996, and the trauma that residents of these schools faced was immense, both personally and in terms of their loss and alienation from their own cultures, traditions, and families. Other points examined include the creation of the reserve system in Canada, an ongoing policy that is having an impact on politics at all levels of Canadian societies, as Aboriginal Nations continue to make legal claim to rightfully titled land that has been subsumed by local municipalities or individuals. The details of the destruction of Aboriginal culture is also examined, with the banning of traditional ceremonies, Potlatch's and other cultural traditions a key part of the Act.
This book is a crucial and important work for Canadians to read. It details the destructive and deeply racist Indian Act, a piece of legislation still in effect today. Although the Canadian government has officially apologized for its creation of the Residential Schools system (2008, Stephen Harper), and dismantled the Department of Indigenous and Northern Affairs (2017, Justin Trudeau), the relationship between the Government of Canada and various Aboriginal Nations remains an ongoing and developing issue. It is widely acknowledged that the Indian Act is an antiquated and destructive piece of legislation, and steps have been taken to introduce new legislation that focuses on Nation to Nation relationships, as opposed to the subservient relationship currently encouraged by existing legislation. Even so, this is a slow and measured process, and steps need to continue to ensure Aboriginal Nations within the Canadian Federation possess all the rights a Nation deserves - including the right to tax and spend, the right to create institutions, access to clean water and food, access education, and so on. The movement toward seeing Aboriginal Nations as equals to the Federal government in Canada continues.
Joseph has written a critical examination of the Indian Act that is important for all Canadians to read. This book is concise, interesting, and easily read. It is also an important step to understanding the negative relationship the Indian Act has encouraged between the Government of Canada and Aboriginal peoples. This book is fascinating, well researched, and contains good depth. It also has workable solutions to issues arising out of the Act, and offers a clear policy proscription to a more equitable relationship. Of course, revoking the Indian Act will not solve all problems, or eliminate the continued discrimination many Aboriginal peoples still face throughout Canada. Even so, this book is a good study of Canada's relationship with Aboriginal Nations, and a good example of some of the wonderful literature appearing in Canada on Aboriginal politics and rights. A fine read, and certainly recommended to any Canadian looking to read more on the subject. I would personally say that this should be required educational reading, it is that important and interesting.
The 21 points are varied, but generally illustrate the damaging effects the Indian Act has had on Aboriginal and Indigenous cultures within Canada. The terms of the Act have varied over time, with many of the more discriminatory terms being repealed - however, the nature of the Act itself still maintains a discriminatory relationship between the Canadian government, and Aboriginal Nations. Some of the terms include terrifying examples of cultural genocide: removing the right to free movement of Aboriginal peoples without the granting of a permit by an Agent of the Crown, for example. The Act set up the Residential Schools establishments in Canada: highly damaging organizations that forcibly removed children from their families in order to assimilate them faster into "Canadian society". This was done by banning the use of Aboriginal languages, promoting Christian and British education, and making traditional cultural practices illegal. It also removed children from their communities - alienating them from their parents, families, and Nations. These schools were disasters, with many thousands of children dying from disease within these poorly run, and neglected institutions. Sexual and physical abuse were also prevalent, as Aboriginal children did not enjoy any form of protection from abuse. The legacy of these schools lives on today; the last Residential School was only closed in 1996, and the trauma that residents of these schools faced was immense, both personally and in terms of their loss and alienation from their own cultures, traditions, and families. Other points examined include the creation of the reserve system in Canada, an ongoing policy that is having an impact on politics at all levels of Canadian societies, as Aboriginal Nations continue to make legal claim to rightfully titled land that has been subsumed by local municipalities or individuals. The details of the destruction of Aboriginal culture is also examined, with the banning of traditional ceremonies, Potlatch's and other cultural traditions a key part of the Act.
This book is a crucial and important work for Canadians to read. It details the destructive and deeply racist Indian Act, a piece of legislation still in effect today. Although the Canadian government has officially apologized for its creation of the Residential Schools system (2008, Stephen Harper), and dismantled the Department of Indigenous and Northern Affairs (2017, Justin Trudeau), the relationship between the Government of Canada and various Aboriginal Nations remains an ongoing and developing issue. It is widely acknowledged that the Indian Act is an antiquated and destructive piece of legislation, and steps have been taken to introduce new legislation that focuses on Nation to Nation relationships, as opposed to the subservient relationship currently encouraged by existing legislation. Even so, this is a slow and measured process, and steps need to continue to ensure Aboriginal Nations within the Canadian Federation possess all the rights a Nation deserves - including the right to tax and spend, the right to create institutions, access to clean water and food, access education, and so on. The movement toward seeing Aboriginal Nations as equals to the Federal government in Canada continues.
Joseph has written a critical examination of the Indian Act that is important for all Canadians to read. This book is concise, interesting, and easily read. It is also an important step to understanding the negative relationship the Indian Act has encouraged between the Government of Canada and Aboriginal peoples. This book is fascinating, well researched, and contains good depth. It also has workable solutions to issues arising out of the Act, and offers a clear policy proscription to a more equitable relationship. Of course, revoking the Indian Act will not solve all problems, or eliminate the continued discrimination many Aboriginal peoples still face throughout Canada. Even so, this book is a good study of Canada's relationship with Aboriginal Nations, and a good example of some of the wonderful literature appearing in Canada on Aboriginal politics and rights. A fine read, and certainly recommended to any Canadian looking to read more on the subject. I would personally say that this should be required educational reading, it is that important and interesting.
January 19, 2022
I came across this one by chance, and I was interested to further my understanding of the complex historical relationship between Canada and its Indigenous population. This is the second book on Indigenous affairs by a Canadian author that I have read, after Thomas King's 2012 book: The Inconvenient Indian. I felt that this one was better put-together and delivered than King's book, which I did not really like.
Author Bob Joseph:
21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act was a somewhat interesting book. The first part of the book lays out its case, providing some relevant historical info, and then proceeds to make propositions for "fixing" this complicated issue.
The formatting of the book is done very well; each of the 21 points proceeds in a numerical fashion, with relevant writing below each point.
The topic of the Indigenous people of Canada is a very historically complicated and contentious issue that is sure to inflame emotions and sentiments on both sides.
The book lays out a case for the complete SNAFU on how this issue has been dealt with by the Government of Canada.
The 21 Things talked about in the book:
1) Imposed the elected chief and band council system.
2) Denied women status.
3) Created reserves.
4) Encouraged voluntary and enforced enfranchisement.
5) Could expropriate portions of reserves for public works.
6) Renamed individuals with European names.
7) Created a permit system to control Indians’ ability to sell products from farms.
8) Prohibited sale of ammunition to Indians.
9) Prohibited the sale of intoxicants to Indians.
10) Declared potlatch and other cultural ceremonies illegal.
11) Restricted Indians from leaving their reserve without permission from an Indian agent.
12) Created residential schools.
13) Forbade Indian students from speaking their home language.
14) Forbade western Indians from appearing in any public dance, show, exhibition, stampede, or pageant wearing traditional regalia.
15) Leased uncultivated reserve lands to non-Indians.
16) Forbade Indians from forming political organizations.
17) Prohibited anyone, Indian or non-Indian, from soliciting funds for Indians to hire legal counsel.
18) Prohibited pool hall owners from allowing Indians entrance.
19) Forbade Indian students from practising their traditional religion.
20) Denied Indians the right to vote until 1960.
21) The Indian Act is a piece of legislation created under colonial rule for the purpose of subjugating a group of people.
Although I would not dispute the horrible treatment they received, and this should not be downplayed by any means; I did have a few points of contention or disagreement with some of the book.
21 Things attempts to squash the stereotype of Native alcohol intolerance: "...Indians would often consume their alcohol rapidly to avoid being arrested and fined. This led to the myth, which continues today, that Indians can’t tolerate alcohol. The Indian Act prohibition set the stage for the pervasive stereotype that Indians suffered from alcohol intolerance."
I'm not sure that this is entirely accurate, however. While this, too is a very complicated issue - it is not solely a cultural issue. There seems to be a genetic component to this, as well.
A cursory Google search turned up this 2014 study, by Cindy L. Ehlers, PhD and Ian R. Gizer, Ph.D. which says:
Alcohol tolerance aside, this leaves us with the burning question: What did/do the Indigenous people want??
The book mentions that historically most did not want official enfranchisement, and/or assimilation; citing (among other issues) a difference in the European cultural focus on individual rights vs. the Indigenous cultural focus on collectivism. They also felt that they were being "culturally genocided". The book directly mentions and reinforces this terminology specifically.
I don't think this issue has any easy answers; as just about every proposition can be met with substantial criticism.
The author brings up the concept of self-governance, as a way towards reconciliation:
"COMMON ELEMENTS OF SELF-GOVERNMENT:
Generally speaking, a return to self-government shapes social and economic well-being and can include provisions for:
• Structure and accountability of Indigenous governments
• Revenues from land-based resources
• Financial resources from transfer payments (i.e. taxes) to fund the following, to name a few:
– Education
– Health care and social services
– Police services
– Law-making powers
– Cultural preservation
– Environmental protection
– Land and resource governance
– Housing
– Property rights
– Child welfare."
So, to some degree; it seems as though they would like to have a parallel society, inside the country of Canada proper. I'm not sure this is a tenable solution.
In Appendix 3 of this book, the author makes many detailed and extensive "Calls to Action" of the Canadian Government; involving (among many demands) lots of funding from the same government. I'm not sure the Canadian (or any other) Government would be too amenable to funding a parallel society within the confines of its own borders...
As well, I am unaware of other historical examples of a conquered people making and achieving demands for a parallel society to be set up inside a larger sovereign nation; to be funded by the same larger nation.
Generally and historically-speaking; being militarily defeated, and having your population almost completely eradicated does not leave you in a favourable bargaining position...
Which leaves us with the current situation; whereby Indigenous people live in tiny remote outpost-style reservations, dependant largely on social assistance. Their communities are generally too small to foster organic economic growth and prosperity via labour specialization and service capital. Education, infrastructure, and medical care are also naturally huge issues with remote, sparsely-populated enclaves - many in the far-North.
In this situation, many naturally suffer from an existential crisis and lack of "self-actualization", as per Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. Suicide and alcoholism are a few of the major problems that result from these kinds of large-scale identity crises.
I don't think the current system is working for any of the parties involved. But the proposed solution of "self-governance" (to be paid for by the same government they want to secede from), is both unrealistic and completely unfeasible, IMO.
*****************
As usual, the victims in stories like this of big-picture cultural, ideological, and territorial clashes are always the poor individuals caught in something they have no control over. And the story of the Indigenous people of Canada falls along these lines. It is most definitely a very tragic one...
3 stars.
Author Bob Joseph:
21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act was a somewhat interesting book. The first part of the book lays out its case, providing some relevant historical info, and then proceeds to make propositions for "fixing" this complicated issue.
The formatting of the book is done very well; each of the 21 points proceeds in a numerical fashion, with relevant writing below each point.
The topic of the Indigenous people of Canada is a very historically complicated and contentious issue that is sure to inflame emotions and sentiments on both sides.
The book lays out a case for the complete SNAFU on how this issue has been dealt with by the Government of Canada.
The 21 Things talked about in the book:
1) Imposed the elected chief and band council system.
2) Denied women status.
3) Created reserves.
4) Encouraged voluntary and enforced enfranchisement.
5) Could expropriate portions of reserves for public works.
6) Renamed individuals with European names.
7) Created a permit system to control Indians’ ability to sell products from farms.
8) Prohibited sale of ammunition to Indians.
9) Prohibited the sale of intoxicants to Indians.
10) Declared potlatch and other cultural ceremonies illegal.
11) Restricted Indians from leaving their reserve without permission from an Indian agent.
12) Created residential schools.
13) Forbade Indian students from speaking their home language.
14) Forbade western Indians from appearing in any public dance, show, exhibition, stampede, or pageant wearing traditional regalia.
15) Leased uncultivated reserve lands to non-Indians.
16) Forbade Indians from forming political organizations.
17) Prohibited anyone, Indian or non-Indian, from soliciting funds for Indians to hire legal counsel.
18) Prohibited pool hall owners from allowing Indians entrance.
19) Forbade Indian students from practising their traditional religion.
20) Denied Indians the right to vote until 1960.
21) The Indian Act is a piece of legislation created under colonial rule for the purpose of subjugating a group of people.
Although I would not dispute the horrible treatment they received, and this should not be downplayed by any means; I did have a few points of contention or disagreement with some of the book.
21 Things attempts to squash the stereotype of Native alcohol intolerance: "...Indians would often consume their alcohol rapidly to avoid being arrested and fined. This led to the myth, which continues today, that Indians can’t tolerate alcohol. The Indian Act prohibition set the stage for the pervasive stereotype that Indians suffered from alcohol intolerance."
I'm not sure that this is entirely accurate, however. While this, too is a very complicated issue - it is not solely a cultural issue. There seems to be a genetic component to this, as well.
A cursory Google search turned up this 2014 study, by Cindy L. Ehlers, PhD and Ian R. Gizer, Ph.D. which says:
"...Large-scale U.S. epidemiological studies, demonstrate that compared to other U.S. ethnic groups Native Americans have the highest rates of alcohol and other drug dependence [2] and Native American adolescents have been shown to have the highest rates of substance use and substance-related disorders [3]. Lifetime rates of alcohol dependence, in the small number of individual tribal groups studied, have been reported as 20%–70% [4-6], higher than the epidemiological rate of DSM-IV alcohol dependence of 13% in the U.S. general population [7]. The causes for increased rates of alcohol and drug dependence in Native Americans are thought to have both environmental and genetic determinants.
Early socio-cultural theories posited that Native American alcohol use and abuse was a result of loss of traditional community lands, cultures and ties coupled with the stress of acculturation; however, there has been little direct evidence to support such theories [8]. More recent theories have presented data to support an association between alcohol dependence and such factors as personal and historical trauma (see [9-10]), early age of onset of drinking [11] as well as lack of contingency between access to basic life reinforcers (employment, housing, education and health care) and sobriety.
The contribution of genetic factors to the development of alcohol and other drug dependence has been consistently supported by numerous family, twin, and adoption studies in general population samples. Although the mode of transmission of this increased risk is unclear, most investigators favor a model where a genetic predisposition interacts with environmental variables to produce an overall risk for the disorder. It is also likely that complex disorders like substance dependence are influenced by a large number of genes of small effect. While many of these genes may be specific to the etiology of these disorders, others likely overlap with other psychiatric and metabolic disorders. For example, substance dependence and obesity both occur more frequently in some Native American populations. One theoretical assumption concerning Native people is that the long history of dependence on foraging and subsistence agriculture may have led to selective enrichment of traits that improve genetic fitness, so called ‘thrifty’ or ‘fat sparing’ genes. It has been suggested that this same selective pressure may have enriched for genetic variants that increase the risk for consumption of alcohol and perhaps other drugs of abuse providing another potential pathway that could give rise to shared genetic influences between these traits [16-17].
The present report presents a review of the findings supporting a substantial genetic component contributing to the development of substance dependence in Native Americans. Such findings have the potential to yield important insights into the genetics of substance dependence given that genetic epidemiology studies conducted in well-defined populations, such as Native American tribes, can be particularly informative given the relative environmental and genetic homogeneity of some these populations compared to larger, more stratified general population samples."
Alcohol tolerance aside, this leaves us with the burning question: What did/do the Indigenous people want??
The book mentions that historically most did not want official enfranchisement, and/or assimilation; citing (among other issues) a difference in the European cultural focus on individual rights vs. the Indigenous cultural focus on collectivism. They also felt that they were being "culturally genocided". The book directly mentions and reinforces this terminology specifically.
I don't think this issue has any easy answers; as just about every proposition can be met with substantial criticism.
The author brings up the concept of self-governance, as a way towards reconciliation:
"COMMON ELEMENTS OF SELF-GOVERNMENT:
Generally speaking, a return to self-government shapes social and economic well-being and can include provisions for:
• Structure and accountability of Indigenous governments
• Revenues from land-based resources
• Financial resources from transfer payments (i.e. taxes) to fund the following, to name a few:
– Education
– Health care and social services
– Police services
– Law-making powers
– Cultural preservation
– Environmental protection
– Land and resource governance
– Housing
– Property rights
– Child welfare."
So, to some degree; it seems as though they would like to have a parallel society, inside the country of Canada proper. I'm not sure this is a tenable solution.
In Appendix 3 of this book, the author makes many detailed and extensive "Calls to Action" of the Canadian Government; involving (among many demands) lots of funding from the same government. I'm not sure the Canadian (or any other) Government would be too amenable to funding a parallel society within the confines of its own borders...
As well, I am unaware of other historical examples of a conquered people making and achieving demands for a parallel society to be set up inside a larger sovereign nation; to be funded by the same larger nation.
Generally and historically-speaking; being militarily defeated, and having your population almost completely eradicated does not leave you in a favourable bargaining position...
Which leaves us with the current situation; whereby Indigenous people live in tiny remote outpost-style reservations, dependant largely on social assistance. Their communities are generally too small to foster organic economic growth and prosperity via labour specialization and service capital. Education, infrastructure, and medical care are also naturally huge issues with remote, sparsely-populated enclaves - many in the far-North.
In this situation, many naturally suffer from an existential crisis and lack of "self-actualization", as per Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. Suicide and alcoholism are a few of the major problems that result from these kinds of large-scale identity crises.
I don't think the current system is working for any of the parties involved. But the proposed solution of "self-governance" (to be paid for by the same government they want to secede from), is both unrealistic and completely unfeasible, IMO.
*****************
As usual, the victims in stories like this of big-picture cultural, ideological, and territorial clashes are always the poor individuals caught in something they have no control over. And the story of the Indigenous people of Canada falls along these lines. It is most definitely a very tragic one...
3 stars.
January 7, 2021
This small book written by Bob Joseph contains information that every Canadian should know. Having read several non-fiction books by Indigenous authors, I was aware of some things. This book has broadened my knowledge. In addition to listing and telling 21 things about the Indian Act, in Appendix 4 there is a list of 21 things you can do to change the world. I plan to do #4 ~ Donate books by Indigenous authors to school libraries.
February 11, 2024
essential reading for all canadians
August 19, 2018
Sometimes you forget just how insanely corrupt and like America, Canada is. The Canadian government puts on this face like it hasn't committed the sort of atrocities the US, Germany and various other countries have committed against their people; when they have. It completely levels the "moral high ground" image that the Canadian government seeks to represent; that most people of colour know is bullshit. This book is a reminder to take action - with a lot of suggestions on how to take action towards the end.
My knowledge was renewed with this book and similar to The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander, 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act, clearly identifies how the Canadian government systematically tried to eliminate First Nations people and has yet to substantially rectify the enormous evil that they've committed against the First Nations populations. It also brings into view a clear picture as to why First Nations communities, much like black communities in the US and Canada, struggle with the types of issues that they do.
It's a great primer for anyone who's not familiar with the Indian Act and this book should be shared as lesson one in Canadian history classes nationwide.
My knowledge was renewed with this book and similar to The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander, 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act, clearly identifies how the Canadian government systematically tried to eliminate First Nations people and has yet to substantially rectify the enormous evil that they've committed against the First Nations populations. It also brings into view a clear picture as to why First Nations communities, much like black communities in the US and Canada, struggle with the types of issues that they do.
It's a great primer for anyone who's not familiar with the Indian Act and this book should be shared as lesson one in Canadian history classes nationwide.
October 8, 2021
everyone should be required to read this
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October 3, 2021I am not going to add anything new to the discourse surrounding this book by saying: every Canadian should read this. But it is so true! If we want to make reconciliation a reality then knowledge is the best place to start and this book is perfect for that. It taught me lots of things I didn't know and reminded me of other facts I had only heard in passing in our very colonialist-centered history classes. Would highly, highly recommend.
November 26, 2022
Not ashamed to admit that I teared up reading this.
July 24, 2019
Essential reading for all Canadians
November 13, 2021
Trigger warnings: racism, genocide, racial stereotypes, colonialism, genocide, death of children, residential schools, corporal punishment of children.
As an Australian (albeit an Australian who spent part of her childhood in Canada), I knew less than nothing about the Indian Act going into this book. But what struck me time and time again were the similarities to the atrocities in government policy towards Indigenous populations all over the world. Residential schools. Stamping out the Indigeneity in the population. Destroying the land. Refusal to allow traditional beliefs and practices and ceremonies. The similarities between Canadian colonial law and Australian colonial law shouldn't have surprised me, but they did.
I took multiple screenshots while reading this because there were a ton of lines that hit really hard. This was published in 2018, so doesn't cover the discovery of mass graves at residential schools this year, but essentially? This book filled me with rage MULTIPLE times and I am incredibly glad I read it.
I'll leave you with my favourite quote: "The past cannot be overlooked or dismissed as 'ancient history', because it isn't; the impacts of the past are ongoing."
As an Australian (albeit an Australian who spent part of her childhood in Canada), I knew less than nothing about the Indian Act going into this book. But what struck me time and time again were the similarities to the atrocities in government policy towards Indigenous populations all over the world. Residential schools. Stamping out the Indigeneity in the population. Destroying the land. Refusal to allow traditional beliefs and practices and ceremonies. The similarities between Canadian colonial law and Australian colonial law shouldn't have surprised me, but they did.
I took multiple screenshots while reading this because there were a ton of lines that hit really hard. This was published in 2018, so doesn't cover the discovery of mass graves at residential schools this year, but essentially? This book filled me with rage MULTIPLE times and I am incredibly glad I read it.
I'll leave you with my favourite quote: "The past cannot be overlooked or dismissed as 'ancient history', because it isn't; the impacts of the past are ongoing."
April 2, 2021
This book definitely reads as a textbook. I wouldn't call it an enjoyable read but it is very educational. I'm Canadian and although I did know about some of the history of the mistreatment of Indigenous and First Nations peoples by the government, I didn't know how systemic it was right from the start, and the long list of laws that were put in place which only applied to these people.
This is an important read for all Canadians and I think it would be a great addition to any school curriculum.
This is an important read for all Canadians and I think it would be a great addition to any school curriculum.
September 22, 2018
An important book for Canadians to read. Was a good primer for looking at the Indian Act and its history and impact on people who have not been fully seen or honoured in our history. Parts were hard to read in recognizing the truth of the implications on individuals as a result of the Indian Act. I felt like it ended a bit too quickly- suddenly it was in part 3 and it felt like an abrupt transition. Lots of important stuff in the appendix and helpful suggestions for further reading.
March 14, 2023
This is truly a lesson in Canadian history. Certainly one we are not proud of but nonetheless one we are working to reconcile.
The author is very well versed in this topic and does a great job of succinctly and concisely explaining the pieces that will offer us a birdseye view of Canada’s treatment of our indigenous peoples from 1844 to the printing of this book in 2018.
It is quite fascinating and very educational as it is certainly not anything that I was taught in school. (But of course, I am old, although even at that I’m not sure this information is yet taught in schools to this extent.)
The author provides great insight to not only the history but also to the opportunities to pursue the solutions, as well as to some discussion of the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action.
Although it’s not a lengthy book it is jammed with information that at times takes a moment or a second read to digest.
Very well done and recommended for all Canadians to learn more on the topic.
The author is very well versed in this topic and does a great job of succinctly and concisely explaining the pieces that will offer us a birdseye view of Canada’s treatment of our indigenous peoples from 1844 to the printing of this book in 2018.
It is quite fascinating and very educational as it is certainly not anything that I was taught in school. (But of course, I am old, although even at that I’m not sure this information is yet taught in schools to this extent.)
The author provides great insight to not only the history but also to the opportunities to pursue the solutions, as well as to some discussion of the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action.
Although it’s not a lengthy book it is jammed with information that at times takes a moment or a second read to digest.
Very well done and recommended for all Canadians to learn more on the topic.
July 23, 2021
Bob Joseph presents a succinct examination of the Indian Act: its history, repercussions and the 94 calls to action for the federal government to reconcile. The reasoning taken to implement the Indian Act is horrifying. Reading about it made me furious and despondent, in turns. I hope we can make things right for the descendents of the original inhabitants of this great land of ours.
July 15, 2018
Great book! Breaks down segments of the Indian Act and briefly explains how each have informed biases and stereotypes that exist in the present day. Really good starting point for those wanting to learn more about the harmful impacts of colonization on Indigenous folks. Also a great collection of resources including a terms glossary, chronological timeline of residential schools, the Calls to Action, and discussion topics and activities. Would recommend as a resource book to keep on hand!
October 15, 2020
My Rating: 5 stars
21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act is exactly about what the title says. It's a list of things that aren't generally well known about the already obscure and not-taught-about Indian Act.
My Breakdown:
- This is a truly eye-opening book. Canadians, if you're reading this review, you must read this book. I only vaguely knew about what happened to Indigenous Peoples, Inuit and Métis in our country, let alone the Indian Act. As a Canadian, especially a settler, this should be mandatory reading for everyone.
- This book was very hard to come to terms with. I've always seen our country as the peace-keepers of the world, the nice next-door neighbour. But it turns out the next-door neighbour definitely has some skeletons in the closet and a lot of dirt swept under the rug. Canada has a terrible and dark past, and that past isn't even that far. The last residential school closed down in 1996. That was 24 years ago. There is still so much work to be done today with our government, and even the mindsets of the people, and so much justice that needs to be done for the Indigenous, Inuit and Métis communities of Canada. It's all still prominent today. Look at the death of Joyce Echaquan, an Atikamekw woman, at the Joliette hospital in Quebec. Look at François Legault making an ex-police officer the Minister for Indigenous Affairs even after this happened. Our country is still constantly dealing the worst hand possible to the people who were here first.
- This may not be an easy book to read, between the legal terminology and the absolute horrors that are described of what happened (and is currently happening) to Indigenous Peoples, Inuit and Métis. But it is still necessary. This should be made mandatory reading in schools and for every Canadian.
- I really enjoyed the appendixes, where it shows many ways how Canadians can help, starting now. The things that were listed all seem so small but make a big difference. They can even be fun. I also liked how the 21 points were varied and how they show how biases and stereotypes and these rules affect how Indigenous People, Inuit and Métis are still affected today.
- I cannot stress enough how important this book is. And how important it is that we must abolish the Indian Act and work to reconcile with the Indigenous communities, Inui and Métis. We must act. It has been too long that they have lived in such injustice, and it has been terrible that they have been served such injustice in the first place.
---
TW: repeated mentions of abuse against Indigenous Peoples, Inuit and Métis. mentions of residential schools. mentions of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. mentions of dead children.
21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act is exactly about what the title says. It's a list of things that aren't generally well known about the already obscure and not-taught-about Indian Act.
My Breakdown:
- This is a truly eye-opening book. Canadians, if you're reading this review, you must read this book. I only vaguely knew about what happened to Indigenous Peoples, Inuit and Métis in our country, let alone the Indian Act. As a Canadian, especially a settler, this should be mandatory reading for everyone.
- This book was very hard to come to terms with. I've always seen our country as the peace-keepers of the world, the nice next-door neighbour. But it turns out the next-door neighbour definitely has some skeletons in the closet and a lot of dirt swept under the rug. Canada has a terrible and dark past, and that past isn't even that far. The last residential school closed down in 1996. That was 24 years ago. There is still so much work to be done today with our government, and even the mindsets of the people, and so much justice that needs to be done for the Indigenous, Inuit and Métis communities of Canada. It's all still prominent today. Look at the death of Joyce Echaquan, an Atikamekw woman, at the Joliette hospital in Quebec. Look at François Legault making an ex-police officer the Minister for Indigenous Affairs even after this happened. Our country is still constantly dealing the worst hand possible to the people who were here first.
- This may not be an easy book to read, between the legal terminology and the absolute horrors that are described of what happened (and is currently happening) to Indigenous Peoples, Inuit and Métis. But it is still necessary. This should be made mandatory reading in schools and for every Canadian.
- I really enjoyed the appendixes, where it shows many ways how Canadians can help, starting now. The things that were listed all seem so small but make a big difference. They can even be fun. I also liked how the 21 points were varied and how they show how biases and stereotypes and these rules affect how Indigenous People, Inuit and Métis are still affected today.
- I cannot stress enough how important this book is. And how important it is that we must abolish the Indian Act and work to reconcile with the Indigenous communities, Inui and Métis. We must act. It has been too long that they have lived in such injustice, and it has been terrible that they have been served such injustice in the first place.
---
TW: repeated mentions of abuse against Indigenous Peoples, Inuit and Métis. mentions of residential schools. mentions of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. mentions of dead children.
August 5, 2021
21 Things You May Not Know About The Indian Act started as an online viral article. This book focuses on specific portions of The Indian Act that was created in 1876 in order to dismantle an entire group of people, all to take the land for European settlers. To put things into perspective 1876 was 125 years ago and the last residential school was closed in 1996, only 25 years ago. Bob Joseph pulls portions of passages to show how oppressive and constricting the lives of Indigenous Peoples are. And explains how Indigenous Peoples can return to self government, in turn creating a better Canada for us all - moving to true reconciliation.
This book needs to be mandatory reading in high schools. I remember myself reading about Canada history as a kid but of course these specifics were never talked about. I read this on Canada Day this year as I should have done many years ago. I was stunned speechless at some of the text while knowing deep inside that on some level we all know what history we’re truly standing on. It’s never too late to educate yourself and learn. Joseph breaks down regulations for the reader to understand and connect to what is happening to this day.
As I visit the capital of Canada this week I found myself reflecting upon this book many times. From walking by statues to visiting the memorial for the children’s remains at Parliament. Remains that were uncovered from all the residential schools this year… with many more schools still left to be investigated is a reminder that this isn’t Canada’s history - it’s Canada’s present.
We must continue to educate ourselves, reflect and have discussions with friends and family. Only through truth can true reconciliation happen. Pick up this book and other books to truly understand what it means to be Canadian, 5✨.
This book needs to be mandatory reading in high schools. I remember myself reading about Canada history as a kid but of course these specifics were never talked about. I read this on Canada Day this year as I should have done many years ago. I was stunned speechless at some of the text while knowing deep inside that on some level we all know what history we’re truly standing on. It’s never too late to educate yourself and learn. Joseph breaks down regulations for the reader to understand and connect to what is happening to this day.
As I visit the capital of Canada this week I found myself reflecting upon this book many times. From walking by statues to visiting the memorial for the children’s remains at Parliament. Remains that were uncovered from all the residential schools this year… with many more schools still left to be investigated is a reminder that this isn’t Canada’s history - it’s Canada’s present.
We must continue to educate ourselves, reflect and have discussions with friends and family. Only through truth can true reconciliation happen. Pick up this book and other books to truly understand what it means to be Canadian, 5✨.
Read
June 7, 2021"The past cannot be overlooked or dismissed as "ancient history," because it isn't; the impacts of the past are ongoing."
As many other reviews say: this should be required reading for all Canadians. Joseph breaks down 21 sections of the Indian Act (which is not all of the sections of the Act) to allow readers to understand what the legislation entailed in more accessible language and how it impacted the Indigenous People of Canada.
I appreciate that at the back, the author provided a list of actions one can do to ensure they are an ally for the Indigenous community after reading about the Indian Act.
As many other reviews say: this should be required reading for all Canadians. Joseph breaks down 21 sections of the Indian Act (which is not all of the sections of the Act) to allow readers to understand what the legislation entailed in more accessible language and how it impacted the Indigenous People of Canada.
I appreciate that at the back, the author provided a list of actions one can do to ensure they are an ally for the Indigenous community after reading about the Indian Act.
September 10, 2020
8 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act was an informative book that got to the point without wasting any time on irrelevant information.
I'm still appalled that the Canadian government continues to treat indigenous people as second class citizens. The Indian Act should've been abolished long ago, yet it's still in effect even though it's completely unconstitutional.
There is a whole section about residential schools and how badly it affected indigenous children and their family, mentally, emotionally, and physically. The fact that these schools continued to operate till 1995 makes me sick.
I just wish the book was longer. That's my only complaint.
Overall, this was an eye-opening book that exposed the Indian Act for what it is, an unconstitutional act that continues to discriminate against indigenous people to this day. I definitely recommend this book to everyone and especially my fellow Canadians.
I'm still appalled that the Canadian government continues to treat indigenous people as second class citizens. The Indian Act should've been abolished long ago, yet it's still in effect even though it's completely unconstitutional.
There is a whole section about residential schools and how badly it affected indigenous children and their family, mentally, emotionally, and physically. The fact that these schools continued to operate till 1995 makes me sick.
I just wish the book was longer. That's my only complaint.
Overall, this was an eye-opening book that exposed the Indian Act for what it is, an unconstitutional act that continues to discriminate against indigenous people to this day. I definitely recommend this book to everyone and especially my fellow Canadians.
Read
July 16, 2021Wow this book was really eye-opening. Even though the information was very harsh, I thought it was presented in clear way that anybody can understand. All Canadians should definitely read this.
December 3, 2020
This should be mandatory reading. I learned a lot that I am ashamed to have not known previously. The call to action at the end has tangible things readers can do right now. It’s not an easy book to read - but a critical one.
August 7, 2021
Every Canadian should read this. It explains where a lot of our cultural bias to Indigenous people stems from.
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