Course Overview
This course will explore the historical and current relationship between Indigenous Peoples, the federal and provincial governments of Canada, and the environment. Content will focus on events and issues related to fish, wildlife, and recreation in British Columbia. The course will provide an overview of the history of Indigenous Peoples in what is now called Canada. It will also examine the federal acts that have impacted Indigenous Peoples and review landmark legal decisions related to natural resources and land use. The course will also introduce Indigenous ways of knowing, the importance of relationships and reciprocity, and the idea of obligation or responsibility in the context of the natural world for both human and non‐human entities. Through readings, guest lectures, and projects, students will explore the working relationship between Indigenous Peoples and various levels of government, communities, and private industry in the context of natural resource management and stewardship issues.
Prerequisite(s)
- Completion of Year 1.
Credits
4.0
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Discuss the history of Indigenous Peoples in Canada for both pre‐ and post‐European contact timeframes, considering both Indigenous and Western perspectives.
- Examine historical and current legislation and the effects on Indigenous Peoples in Canada, in particular aspects that relate to natural resources, and how this applies to land use and stewardship, self‐determination and governance, and the duty to consult.
- Explain and discuss Indigenous rights and title in Canada and how this relates to the stewardship and governance of lands, waters, and other aspects of the environment.
- Discuss the results and effects of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal People, UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
- Discuss the efforts, challenges, and multiple perspectives around accomplishing reconciliation and indigenization in various contexts.
- Discuss Indigenous-led conservation, Indigenous methodologies and research, Indigenous knowledges, and collaboration with Western perspectives.
- Examine current events related to the environment and natural resources and explain the relevance to Indigenous stewardship, self‐governance, and co‐governance.
- Examine the relationships between Indigenous Peoples, governments, communities, and private industry in the context of natural resource management and stewardship.
Effective as of Fall 2025
Related Programs
Indigenous Perspectives and Land Stewardship (RENR 3340) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
School of Construction and the Environment
- Fish, Wildlife and Recreation
Diploma Full-time
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.