Written following the final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, these Indigenous Writings read like having coffee with a friend who would explain to us, clearly but without simplifying, the concepts and preconceived ideas related to Indigenous issues and, more specifically, the legal, political and social relations between Indigenous peoples and Canada.

With boldness and wit, Chelsea Vowel explores Indigenous experiences from post-contact to the present, through themes such as the vocabulary of relationships, culture and identity, myth-busting, state violence, and territory, education, rights and treaties.

Through the lens of her own Métis identity, Chelsea Vowel gives us, in a fluid, playful if not striking language, tools to challenge several misperceptions and deepen our knowledge: “I want this book to lead to larger discussions at home, in the classroom, and in community groups. At times, reading this book will be emotionally charged; that is inevitable in these kinds of essential conversations. When we remember that we are talking to other human beings who have families, who face challenges, and who aspire to a better life, it becomes easier to manage these emotions. We can only acknowledge that these topics are difficult. Sometimes, we will simply have to agree to disagree. And, ultimately, we will still have to ask ourselves how to live together. That can only begin when we better understand the fundamental issues.”

Translated from English by Mishka Lavigne.