How do people advocate for the rights of their communities in the face of violence?

By the end of this hook, I can… 

• define activism to get ready to learn about Indigenous forms of advocacy

This exercise could also be paired with teaching about: 

• The African American Civil Rights Movement

Civics

• SS.9-12.CV.8. Analyze the methods individuals can use to challenge laws to address a variety of public issues.

Note to teachers: We invite you to use the components of the Indigenous Chicago curriculum that best align with the needs of your classroom. The following suggested steps can be modified as needed, and we invite you to use the teacher’s history brief to inspire new exercises that best meet the needs of your students. Please note that we suggest shortening, rather than modifying, the language of historical sources to best reflect the original source’s context, intention, and voice. 

1. This module is about Indigenous activism and resistance to colonial violence, including the many ways Indigenous people have fought for the protection of their homelands and families. Let’s start by thinking about the word “activism.” What forms of activism have you seen, participated in, or studied before?

2. Let’s identify what makes an event a form of activism and/or what makes a person an activist. Write down five characteristics that you think makes something activism or someone an activist:

3. Compare your answers with a partner (you now have a list of 10 ideas, and it’s ok if some of your ideas are very similar). Together identify three ideas you want to share and note them below: 

Note to teachers: We suggest you have each set of partners share their answers either by writing on the board, sharing in a jamboard, or sharing them aloud with a student or you as a notetaker for the class. Use the gathered answers for a discussion about what activism is and who activists are. 

4. After today, how would you define activism? 

5. Over the next several lessons, you’re going to learn about the many strategies Indigenous people have used to advocate for the well-being of their communities and homelands. Be open to your definition from today changing over time – not all activism looks the same!

6. Creative extension! Write a poem or create a visualization that represents activism. What does it sound like? What does it look like? What does it feel like?