Moving From Patriarchal Benevolence to Relationship: Walking Humbly With Indigenous People

Abstract

This article draws on the lived experiences of four Indigenous people from the Carrier Nation in British Columbia, Canada. Face-to-face interviews with a small sample of Indigenous people suggest that it is intentional relationships and not acts of benevolence that can advance compassion, understanding, and ultimately reconciliation. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission has opened the door for non-Indigenous people to begin the process of reconciliation; however, it is a process that must begin with ourselves. To avoid benevolent paternalism, non-Indigenous teachers must use an Indigenous worldview as a lens to develop students into more relationally minded individuals with a deeper empathy, understanding, and compassion for Indigenous peoples. The way forward is a transformation of the mind and heart rather than pursuing a mistaken goal of benevolent authoritarianism.