Reflect and Discuss

Landmark 29 (Social Justice)

We hosted a workshop for Grade 11/12 in the Youth in Leadership in Sustainability (YLS) class where we explored the importance of climate action through the lens of the United Nations Declaration of Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). We covered the impact UNDRIP created across the globe and the vital role UNDRIP plays in protecting Indigenous rights and climate action in Canada and locally. In addition, we discussed with students on how UNDRIP principles would ensure that Canada meets the universal framework of minimum standards for the survival, dignity and well-being of the Indigenous Peoples and an overall stronger degree of protection for Indigenous rights than those currently in place under Canadian law. We engaged students throughout the workshop using interactive activities on Slido and Kahoot. Students were encouraged to participate in reflections and discussions on how UNDRIP resonated with them and how their knowledge and understanding of UNDRIP can help to generate a positive impact in the local community.

The students were also encouraged to take action following this workshop. We proposed a few actions for student to take to create positive change in the local community. Please see below:

1. Write a letter to your local MP on the following topics (not limited to these): Curve Lake drinking water, Indigenous rights, pipelines, etc
2. Invite an Indigenous Leader as a class speaker (online or in-person)
3. Get outside and make a connection with landmarks, plant/animal species that resonated with what you’ve learned
4. Create spoken word or art pieces on what you learned- share with us on social media or via email

Kawartha World Issues Centre – January 5, 2022