Niinwi - Kiinwa - Kiinwi: Building Non-Indigenous Allies in Education through Indigenous Pedagogy

Abstract

In this article, we examine the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada (TRC, 2015a) in light of their implications for conscious ally-building in teacher education. Guided by the Anishinaabemowin language, the Medicine Wheel, and the Seven Grandfather Teachings, we ask what we can do to move from niinwi, “we but not you,” and kiinwa, “you all but not us,” to kiinwi, “you and us (together).” We arrive at the conclusion that reconciliatory education can be accomplished through respect and love, alongside an unyielding commitment to honouring Indigeneity, speaking truth, and building wisdom.