European University Institute Library

Taking back our spirits, Indigenous literature, public policy, and healing, Jo-Ann Episkenew

eng

Includes bibliographical references (pages 214-236) and index

contains biographical information

index present

non fiction

Taking back our spirits

electronic resource

bibliographydictionaries

277205556

Jo-Ann Episkenew

ACLS Humanities E-Book

Indigenous literature, public policy, and healing

"From the earliest settler policies to deal with the "Indian problem," to contemporary government-run programs ostensibly designed to help Indigenous people, public policy has played a major role in creating the historical trauma that so greatly impacts the lives of Canada's Indigenous peoples. Taking Back Our Spirits traces the links between Canadian public policies, the injuries they have inflicted on Indigenous people, and the role of Indigenous literature in healing individuals and communities. Episkenew examines contemporary autobiography, fiction, and drama to reveal how these texts respond to and critique public policy, and how literature functions as "medicine" to help cure the colonial contagion."

Myth, policy, and health -- Policies of devastation -- Personal stories, healing stories -- Moving beyond the personal myth -- Theatre that heals wounded communities -- Final thoughts, future directions