The specific outcomes from Alberta's grade 12 Aboriginal Studies 30 Program of Studies curriculum cover 10 significant themes.

Oral Tradition and History Transmission
Treaties and Agreements
Land Rights and Ownership
Self-Government and Constitutional Recognition
Land Claims and Treaties
Métis Rights and Settlements
Urbanization and Migration
Cultural Governance and Leadership
Media Representation and Stereotypes
International Indigenous Issues

These themes reflect how diverse and complex the issues Indigenous Peoples face, encompassing historical, cultural, political, economic, and social areas of society.

Oral Storytelling Transmission

Aboriginal Peoples have tremendous stories, culture, traditions, sociopolitical, economic, and resiliency under extreme stress for hundreds of years. The sacred tradition of oral storytelling many of these communities have passed down history and language. Peace treaties and agreements over the centuries have resulted in a relationship balance and power imbalance between indigenous peoples and European settlers.

Land Ownership

Aboriginal Peoples, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit hold a sacred bond with the land. Indigenous connection to land ownership is a source of economic sustenance and cultural and spiritual identity. The power struggle for land rights and ongoing discussions showcase a resilient spirit to preserve their ancestral territories.

Métis Settlements Unique Only To Canada

Métis have a unique historical struggle of being pushed from lands throughout western Canada into communities in the government's hope of assimilation that was not successful; the Métis Settlement Act of 1938 reflects their evolving history.

Movement of Indigenous From Rural to Urban

Aboriginal Peoples face a duality of choices regarding whether to live in rural territories or urban centres. Some want economic opportunities and college/university education in urban areas, while others choose familiar rural regions. Organizations like Friendship Centres support indigenous peoples in the cities, guiding and building strategies for those transitioning to urban life.

Nullifying Negative Stereotypes, Racism, and Discrimination

Despite historical media stereotypes and biases, education and awareness of hope, fostering positive change, empathy, and changing misconceptions showcasing the resilience of successful Indigenous peoples that are business owners/entrepreneurs, government employees, managers, teachers, lawyers, professors, researchers, writers, nurses, medical specialists and doctors.

Conclusion

As we listen to and learn from Indigenous peoples' experiences and stories with empathy and compassion, we as a whole society will grow in the richness of our cultural history and heritage.

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