Book review: Resurgence: Engaging With Indigenous Narratives and Cultural Expression In and Beyond the Classroom

Reviewed by Kelly Crawford

Resurgence: Engaging With Indigenous Narratives and Cultural Expression In and Beyond the Classroom is a creative guide for educators and learners to immerse in Indigenous voice and worldview. The book gives the reader navigational support in this learning journey and encouragement from the editors to go deeper, have discussions and find balance within oneself on this journey.

“In contrast to reconciliation, which has been critiqued as ‘for the colonizers’ and for failing to offer the multilayered changes needed to support Indigenous communities, Resurgence signals a shift in power that gives prominence to voices of Indigenous communities.” (M’Lot, Fergusson)

The book is organized in four parts: Resistance, Resilience, Restoring, and Reconnecting. Guided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action, this work supports educators in bringing Indigenous narratives and perspectives into the classroom. The book is edited by an Indigenous educator and non-Indigenous educator which in itself reflects the work that we all must do in relation to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action.

The 16 contributors come from many different Nations bringing forward essays, poems, and artwork for critical engagement. Educators are supported by a useful chart that provides suggested learning levels (K-12) and connected concepts. In addition, each contribution is accompanied by questions, prompts, and resource suggestions to guide student learning. The inclusion of all of the above is extremely useful for educators. In a sense, it is almost a respectful “how-to” on bringing these works into the classroom and have the conversations that are required to move forward.

Personal reflections by both editors Christine M’Lot and Katya Adamov Ferguson for each poem, essay, and artwork is included, which provides not only a deeper connection, but prompts the reader to participate in personal reflection before getting into an inquiry stage of learning. This personal reflection is proven to help learners have a deeper connection to content.

As we bring Indigenous voices into the place of power, it is vitally important that we understand where we are at in our own journey in order to connect in a meaningful way. Throughout the book, this is clearly communicated. It is a guide that takes the reader through the journey all while providing supports along the way. The inclusion of contributors from different nations is important. In addition, it also prompts the reader to think how many more contributors there are that could be brought into this important learning.

This book sets out a strategic way to bring Indigenous Voice into the classroom. The set-up is excellent to support educators in a seamless manner. The flow of the book allows the reader to feel confident in bringing the material into the classroom. In addition, it would also be beneficial for any learner of any age.

KC Adams (Author), Sonya Ballantyne (Author), Charlene Bearhead (Author), Wilson Bearhead (Author), Lisa Boivin (Author), Rita Bouvier (Author), Nicola I. Campbell (Author), Sara Florence Davidson (Author), Louise B. Halfe (Author), Lucy Hemphill (Author), Wanda John-Kehewin (Author), Elizabeth LaPensee (Author), Victoria McIntosh (Author), Reanna Merasty (Author), David A. Robertson (Author), Russell Wallace (Author), Christina Lavalley Ruddy (Author), Resurgence: Engaging With Indigenous Narratives and Cultural Expression In and Beyond the Classroom. Winnipeg: Portage & Main Press, 2022.

ISBN: 978-1774920008