Creato Talks

How to Be a Better Ally to Indigenous Peoples as a Latinx Community

We’re talking with Daniel Roldán-Chímal—A Mexican-Canadian teacher candidate with Mexican Indigenous heritage, to help us understand what we as first-gen immigrants and settlers can do to be better allies to Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island.

Hola Daniel, tell us a bit about you and what you are currently studying?

I am a teacher candidate at York University, [and] I identify as a Canadian-settler currently living within the boundaries of Treaty No. 14, the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit. My work focuses on Indigenous studies and the decolonization of education. I am also currently working as an Indigenous curriculum development specialist with the Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work.

Tell us more about discovering you had Mexican-Indigenous heritage and how that influenced you to focus your teaching work?

I was born in Canada and sadly, I didn’t learn much about Indigenous peoples until I met Indigenous academics in university. Learning is a continuous process and to this day I continue to learn about diverse and distinct Indigenous peoples across the globe. In my case, I was unaware of the Mexican-Indigenous heritage that has since influenced my learning, so I recommend reconnecting with your roots whenever possible. You never know how learning about Indigenous peoples or your family’s background will change your perspectives on life.

How has what you’ve learned about Indigenous studies and the decolonization of education changed your perspective on what it means to be an ally?

Both immigrants and first generation Canadians live on the traditional territories of Indigenous peoples and it is essential that we understand what role we play in the advancement of reconciliation. If you live in Canada, you are a treaty person with unique rights and responsibilities. As settlers we have a responsibility to learn about Indigenous peoples, cultures, histories, and perspectives.

We must also be informed about current issues that face Indigenous communities as a result of colonialism, assimilation, and genocide. I believe that these are the first steps towards becoming an ally and you can always take an extra step by supporting Indigenous business, artists, and creators.

Many people in our community feel lost when it comes to understanding both Latin American and Canadian Indigenous heritage, what specific resources can you recommend for them to start learning?

I would recommend you choose a method of learning that you enjoy. If you like to read I encourage you to support Indigenous authors and to do your research online. If you prefer to watch movies then I would recommend watching documentaries online via the National Film Board of Canada or Youtube. I also highly recommend looking into the ‘Indigenous Canada’ course that is offered by the University of Alberta, it is online, free, and super informative!

“If you live in Canada, you are a treaty person with unique rights and responsibilities. As settlers we have a responsibility to learn about Indigenous peoples, cultures, histories, and perspectives.”

Based on your studies, what are some of the things we can do as settlers to honour, protect and support Indigenous lives and voices both in Canada and in our countries of origin?

The best way to honour, protect, and support Indigenous lives and voices is to listen, learn, and advocate for what is right. Learn as much as you can about Indigenous peoples, engage with local communities, and educate your family and friends about what you’ve learned.

I also recommend supporting Indigenous businesses and artists to help directly reinvest in Indigenous self determination and the reclaiming of cultures, traditions, and languages. The Indigenous creatives you support are leading the way for future generations of Indigenous youth and your support ultimately helps to advance reconciliation.

Who are your favourite Indigenous artists or creatives that inspire you?

I’m a musician so I would have to say that Buffy Sainte-Marie is definitely one of my greatest inspirations. I also love the visual arts and would recommend you check out some of my favourite creatives including:

@chiefladybird , @morning.star.designs , @lukeswinsonart, @emilykewageshig