Aboriginals, the original people to inhabit Canada, are a civilization rich in culture and heritage. In Canada, the Aboriginals were, and some are, still being discriminated against by Canadian society. Aboriginal people are diverse groups; each has their own language, traditions, and teachings. They are the fastest growing populations in Canada. Incorporating aboriginal studies in the school system teaches the younger generations about social values and to respect the cultures of others. This will be a stepping stone to reducing discrimination against the aboriginal people. This paper will argue aboriginal literature is a necessary aspect to be involved in the educational system because it teaches the importance of culture, oral literature, and how to preserve history. .
Culture is defined as a "way of life, as the way that people think, speak, behave, and spend their time" (Orend, p.67). Learning about Aboriginal literature can help us understand the value of their culture. Traditional Aboriginal culture revolved around their deep relationships to the land. These relationships held significant physical, emotional, social, spiritual and cultural meaning to the Aboriginal. Their culture is based on love, caring, and compassion, and are determined to uphold the true values of their traditions.
Living in a fast past society, the new generation tends to forget about their true cultural values and often try to mold themselves to fit into a modernized society. Teaching students about Aboriginal culture can show them the importance of holding fast to the traditions and beliefs of their own culture. It will teach them to respect and take care the land and it's inhabitants (both human and animal). Aboriginal culture is simple; living hand to hand with nature. Learning about aboriginal literature will encourage younger generations to become more socially, environmentally, and culturally aware. It will also help them make better decisions, which will help preserve their culture and traditions.
