Reflecting: Carolyn Roberts' Workshop

I had the privilege of attending a workshop led by Carolyn Roberts through work last week. Her words were both grounding and transformative, offering me a chance to reflect on my relationship with Indigenous education and reconciliation.

Roberts began with a warm introduction, sharing her own story and grounding us in the recognition of the lands we live and work on—the traditional territories of the Qualicum, Sechelt, Tla’amin, and Snaw-naw-as peoples. She reminded us that cultural acknowledgment doesn’t need to be loud or performative to be meaningful, but that respectful language and quiet reflection can carry just as much power.

Embracing Better Relationships

Carolyn introduced us to the work of Kirkness and Barnhardt (1991): the goal isn’t to create an equal education for Indigenous learners but to create a better one. That means one that respects them for who they are, connects to their worldview, and helps them feel empowered in their own lives.

She spoke about the ways colonization still shapes the systems we live within. Harmful stereotypes—like the "dead Indian" trope— are still common and seen throughout the media. These stereotypes make it easier for people to overlook the realities Indigenous communities face today. These stories are often told about Indigenous people rather than by them, perpetuating the harm.

Reflecting on My Story

This workshop gave me the opportunity to pause and reflect on my own education and upbringing. What was I taught about the Indigenous peoples whose lands I grew up on? What was left out? What biases might I have absorbed from the books I read, the movies I watched, or even the media I consume now? These are uncomfortable questions, but they’re important ones.

Carolyn’s point about Eurocentrism stuck with me. She likened it to swimming in a culture for so long that it becomes invisible—you don’t even notice how much it shapes your worldview. It’s a powerful reminder that stepping outside our perspective isn’t just valuable; it’s necessary.

Moving Through Fear

One of the most impactful parts of the session was Carolyn’s acknowledgment of fear. Whether it’s fear of saying the wrong thing or not knowing enough, these feelings often lead to inaction. Carolyn’s advice was simple but profound: lean into the fear. Growth doesn’t happen without discomfort, and inaction is still a choice.

What’s Next for Me

Carolyn shared some great recommendations for exploring more Indigenous voices in art, music, and media—podcasts like Twisted Histories and Land Back, as well as figures like Murray Sinclair and Jody Wilson-Raybould. She also emphasized the importance of balance in the stories that we bring to the classroom or share with our friends: if we’re sharing stories of trauma, we need to ensure we’re also sharing stories of brilliance and resilience.

This workshop wasn’t just about learning facts or frameworks—it was about recognizing the ongoing responsibility we all share in fostering respect and understanding. I left with a deeper commitment to reflecting on my own story, listening to others, and finding ways to act in support of reconciliation in my community.

Carolyn’s words will stay with me: quiet, respectful change is just as powerful as anything loud. It’s not about perfection; it’s about showing up, asking the hard questions, and continuing to grow.