Page 248 - THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM, GRADES 9 to 12 | First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Studies

THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM, GRADES 9–12 | First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Studies
246
Indigenous peoples across the globe. When any of the thousands of Indigenous commu- nities around the world advocate for self-identification, historical continuity, recognition of the fundamental importance of connection to traditional territories, or distinct govern- ance systems, languages, and ways of knowing, their goals and actions are evidently, but not exclusively, political. The assertion of the right to sovereignty/self-governance also involves the wish to have autonomy in economic decision making and to develop social institutions that reflect Indigenous beliefs and values. Similarly, when Indigenous leaders approach global issues such as environmental protection by using strategies that reflect Indigenous knowledge, their political actions are socially and culturally motivated.