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Dr. W. Andy Knight
This micro-course explores some of the major histories, migrations, artists and activists that have contributed to the presence and survival of Black people in Canada. The course tracks Canada’s evolving relationship to Blackness and Black people, while inviting learners to reflect upon the ways Canadian views of race and multiculturalism have influenced Black communities throughout the country. We invite you to reflect, dream, and think alongside some of today’s most prominent Black intellectuals as we examine the history of Black presence in Canada, and imagine vibrant Black Canadian futures.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/xlefxi/black
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What's inside
Syllabus
Module 1: Before the Underground Railway: the Roots of Anti-Blackness in Canada
In this module, we will explore the relationship between race, colonialism, and the institution of slavery, as practiced in France, Britain, and their colonies, including Canada, during the 18th and 19th centuries. By looking at some of the ways racism in general — and anti-Black racism in particular — was fundamental to the economic and colonial ambitions of Britain and France, we will see how racist legislation set the scene for slavery to be practiced throughout the Americas and the Caribbean. By the end of the module, we will be prepared to reflect upon how the practices of colonialism in the European colonies depended upon racism and slavery for their success, and how this racism was not only present but pervasive in the land that would become known as Canada.
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Syllabus
Module 1: Before the Underground Railway: the Roots of Anti-Blackness in Canada
In this module, we will explore the relationship between race, colonialism, and the institution of slavery, as practiced in France, Britain, and their colonies, including Canada, during the 18th and 19th centuries. By looking at some of the ways racism in general — and anti-Black racism in particular — was fundamental to the economic and colonial ambitions of Britain and France, we will see how racist legislation set the scene for slavery to be practiced throughout the Americas and the Caribbean. By the end of the module, we will be prepared to reflect upon how the practices of colonialism in the European colonies depended upon racism and slavery for their success, and how this racism was not only present but pervasive in the land that would become known as Canada.
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Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Examines the history of Black presence in Canada, which is highly relevant for understanding Canadian history
Taught by Dr. W. Andy Knight, who is recognized for their work in Black Canadian history
Develops detailed knowledge of Black Canadian Civil Rights, which is core for understanding modern Canadian society
Explores the relationship between race, colonialism, and slavery, which is highly relevant to current discussions of race and racism
Examines the strategies Black people in Canada have used to push back against mistreatment, which may be useful for students interested in activism
Analyzes the ways the creativity and artistry of Black Canadians has helped document Black Canadian life, which may inspire creative students
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Reviews summary
Essential black canadian history & anti-racism
According to students, this micro-course provides a profound and essential exploration of Black Canadian history, offering eye-opening insights into topics often overlooked. Learners consistently highlight the highly knowledgeable and engaging instructors, praising their ability to present complex and sensitive material with clarity. The course is described as transformative, fostering a deeper understanding of anti-Black racism and Canada's multicultural landscape. While overwhelmingly positive, a very small minority of feedback indicates a potential for a less objective perspective, though the vast majority found the content crucial and well-researched, making it a must-take for those seeking to broaden their historical understanding.
Modules are organized logically for effective learning.
"The course material felt <span class="positive">accessible and well-structured, providing a solid foundation without being overwhelming."
"The lectures and readings were <span class="positive">meticulously curated, offering a nuanced perspective in a digestible format."
"I appreciated the <span class="positive">logical flow of information from module to module, building knowledge incrementally."
Instructors are highly praised for knowledge and engagement.
"The <span class="positive">professors were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, making complex topics accessible and deeply engaging."
"I felt the instructors did an <span class="positive">outstanding job facilitating discussions and delivering lectures with sensitivity and expertise."
"Their ability to present such sensitive historical information in a <span class="positive">clear and compelling manner was a true highlight."
Fosters profound reflection and new perspectives.
"This course gave me a <span class="positive">profound understanding of anti-Black racism and its historical roots in Canada. Truly transformative."
"This course was <span class="positive">eye-opening and challenging in the best way possible, shifting my perspective on Canadian identity."
"It encouraged me to <span class="positive">reflect deeply on the past and present, inspiring a greater commitment to anti-racist futures."
Delivers comprehensive and crucial historical insights.
"This course provided an <span class="positive">absolute revelation, covering Black Canadian history I never learned in school. It's truly essential."
"I found the content <span class="positive">incredibly well-researched and nuanced, filling a massive gap in my understanding of Canada's past."
"The modules dive deep into topics like slavery, migrations, and civil rights, which are <span class="positive">vital for understanding contemporary issues."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Black Canadians: History, Presence, and Anti-Racist Futures with these
activities:
Watch a documentary or film on Black Canadian history or culture
Show steps
Documentaries, and films provide first-hand accounts and perspectives that can enhance your understanding of the course material.
Show steps
-
Research and select a documentary or film
-
Watch the documentary or film, taking notes on key points
-
Reflect on the documentary or film and how it relates to the course material
Join or start a study group with other students in the course
Show steps
Study groups provide a supportive environment for learning and can improve your understanding of the course material.
Show steps
-
Identify other students in the course who are willing to participate in a study group
-
Establish regular meeting times and a location
-
Set goals and topics for each study session
-
Review course materials and discuss key concepts
-
Work on practice problems or assignments together
Attend online or in-person workshops on Black Canadian history or culture
Show steps
Workshops can provide a deeper dive into specific topics and offer opportunities for hands-on learning.
Show steps
-
Research and identify relevant workshops
-
Register for and attend the workshop
-
Actively participate in the workshop and take notes
-
Reflect on the workshop and how it relates to the course material
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Volunteer with an organization that supports Black Canadian communities
Show steps
Volunteering provides an opportunity to engage with the community and gain a deeper understanding of the issues facing Black Canadians.
Show steps
-
Research and identify organizations that support Black Canadian communities
-
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities
-
Complete any necessary training or orientation
-
Volunteer your time and support the organization
-
Reflect on your volunteer experience and how it relates to the course material
Write a blog post or article on a topic related to the course
Show steps
Writing about a topic from the course will provide an opportunity to synthesize your understanding and improve your communication skills.
Show steps
-
Choose a topic related to the course material
-
Research the topic and gather information
-
Write an outline for your blog post or article
-
Draft your blog post or article
-
Review and edit your blog post or article
-
Publish your blog post or article
Mentor a peer or younger student on topics covered in the course
Show steps
Mentoring others can reinforce your understanding of the course material while also helping others succeed.
Show steps
-
Identify a peer or younger student who needs assistance
-
Establish a regular meeting time and location
-
Review course materials and discuss key concepts
-
Work on practice problems or assignments together
-
Provide feedback and support
Watch a documentary or film on Black Canadian history or culture
Show steps
Documentaries, and films provide first-hand accounts and perspectives that can enhance your understanding of the course material.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and select a documentary or film
- Watch the documentary or film, taking notes on key points
- Reflect on the documentary or film and how it relates to the course material
Join or start a study group with other students in the course
Show steps
Study groups provide a supportive environment for learning and can improve your understanding of the course material.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify other students in the course who are willing to participate in a study group
- Establish regular meeting times and a location
- Set goals and topics for each study session
- Review course materials and discuss key concepts
- Work on practice problems or assignments together
Attend online or in-person workshops on Black Canadian history or culture
Show steps
Workshops can provide a deeper dive into specific topics and offer opportunities for hands-on learning.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify relevant workshops
- Register for and attend the workshop
- Actively participate in the workshop and take notes
- Reflect on the workshop and how it relates to the course material
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Volunteer with an organization that supports Black Canadian communities
Show steps
Volunteering provides an opportunity to engage with the community and gain a deeper understanding of the issues facing Black Canadians.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify organizations that support Black Canadian communities
- Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities
- Complete any necessary training or orientation
- Volunteer your time and support the organization
- Reflect on your volunteer experience and how it relates to the course material
Write a blog post or article on a topic related to the course
Show steps
Writing about a topic from the course will provide an opportunity to synthesize your understanding and improve your communication skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a topic related to the course material
- Research the topic and gather information
- Write an outline for your blog post or article
- Draft your blog post or article
- Review and edit your blog post or article
- Publish your blog post or article
Mentor a peer or younger student on topics covered in the course
Show steps
Mentoring others can reinforce your understanding of the course material while also helping others succeed.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a peer or younger student who needs assistance
- Establish a regular meeting time and location
- Review course materials and discuss key concepts
- Work on practice problems or assignments together
- Provide feedback and support
Career center
Learners who complete Black Canadians: History, Presence, and Anti-Racist Futures will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Historian
Historian
Historians research, analyze, interpret, and write about the past. This course can help build a foundation for a career as a Historian by providing a better understanding of the history, experiences, and contributions of Black Canadians. Understanding these topics can aid in producing more comprehensive and inclusive historical accounts.
Researcher
Researcher
Researchers conduct research and analyze data to answer questions and solve problems. This course can help build a foundation for a career as a Researcher by providing a better understanding of the history, experiences, and contributions of Black Canadians. Understanding these topics can aid in conducting more inclusive and culturally sensitive research.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers help people navigate challenges and improve their well-being. This course can help build a foundation for a career as a Social Worker by providing a better understanding of the history, experiences, and contributions of Black Canadians. Understanding these topics can aid in providing more culturally competent and effective social services.
Museum Director
Museum Director
Museum Directors oversee the operations of museums, including planning exhibitions, managing staff, and fundraising. This course can help build a foundation for a career as a Museum Director by providing a better understanding of the history, experiences, and contributions of Black Canadians. Understanding these topics can aid in developing more inclusive and representative museum exhibitions and programs.
Diversity and Inclusion Manager
Diversity and Inclusion Manager
Diversity and Inclusion Managers help create and maintain a diverse and inclusive workplace. This course can help build a foundation for a career as a Diversity and Inclusion Manager by providing a better understanding of the history of racism and anti-racism in Canada. Understanding these topics can aid in developing more effective diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research, analyze, and make recommendations on public policy issues. This course can help build a foundation for a career as a Policy Analyst by providing a better understanding of the history, experiences, and contributions of Black Canadians. Understanding these topics can aid in developing more inclusive and equitable public policies.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists research, write, and report on news and current events. This course can help build a foundation for a career as a Journalist by providing a better understanding of the history, experiences, and contributions of Black Canadians. Understanding these topics can aid in producing more accurate and inclusive reporting.
Curator
Curator
Curators plan and stage exhibitions for museums, galleries, or other public spaces. This course can help build a foundation for a career as a Curator by providing a better understanding of the history, experiences, and contributions of Black Canadians. Understanding these topics can aid in developing inclusive and representative exhibits promoting cross-cultural understanding.
Archivist
Archivist
Archivists document history through management of historical materials. Their collections may be used by researchers, educators, and the general public. This course can help build a foundation for a career as an Archivist by providing a better understanding of the history, experiences, and contributions of Black Canadians. Understanding these topics can help with the archival of research materials and broaden cultural preservation efforts.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations, including fundraising, program development, and staff management. This course can help build a foundation for a career as a Nonprofit Manager by providing a better understanding of the history, experiences, and contributions of Black Canadians. Understanding these topics can aid in developing more effective programs and services that address the needs of Black Canadian communities.
Program Manager
Program Manager
Program Managers oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs and services. This course can help build a foundation for a career as a Program Manager by providing a better understanding of the history, experiences, and contributions of Black Canadians. Understanding these topics can aid in developing more inclusive and effective programs and services.
Civil Rights Lawyer
Civil Rights Lawyer
Civil Rights Lawyers are attorneys who specialize in civil rights law, representing and defending the rights of individuals and groups. This course may be useful for a budding Civil Rights Lawyer since a core component of the course is an exploration of Black Canadian civil rights. Understanding historical struggles and legal precedents set by Black Canadian Activists can aid in the application of legal strategies and advocacy for Civil Rights.
Educator
Educator
Educators prepare and deliver lesson plans and curriculum for student audiences within schools. This course can help build a foundation for a career as an Educator by providing a better understanding of the history, experiences, and contributions of Black Canadians. Understanding these topics can aid in creating more inclusive and culturally responsive lesson plans and classroom environments.
Grant Writer
Grant Writer
Grant Writers prepare and submit grant proposals to secure funding for organizations. This course may be useful for a budding Grant Writer since a core component of the course is an exploration of Black Canadian history and experiences. Understanding the specific needs and challenges faced by Black Canadian communities can aid in tailoring grant proposals that effectively address these issues.
Lawyer
Lawyer
Lawyers advise and represent clients in legal matters. This course may be useful for a budding Lawyer since a core component of the course is an exploration of Black Canadian civil rights. Understanding the legal history and precedents set by Black Canadian Activists can help inform legal strategies and advocacy.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/xlefxi/black
Reading list
We've selected 11 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Black Canadians: History, Presence, and Anti-Racist Futures.
Save
A timely and urgent call to action against anti-Black racism in Canada, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the history of anti-Black racism in Canada.
Examines the history of state violence against Black people in Canada, from slavery to the present day, providing a critical analysis of the role of policing in perpetuating anti-Black racism.
This classic work of American literature explores the experiences of Black people in the United States, and is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the history of anti-Black racism.
This comprehensive anthology of African American literature includes works by a wide range of authors, from Frederick Douglass to Toni Morrison.
This influential book argues that mass incarceration new form of racial segregation, and is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the criminal justice system.
This classic work of American literature explores the experiences of Black people in the United States, and is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the history of anti-Black racism.
Save
This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of Sethe, a former slave who kills her infant daughter to protect her from slavery.
This seminal novel tells the story of an unnamed Black man who lives in an underground room in Harlem.
Save
This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of Pecola Breedlove, a young Black girl who is abused and neglected.
Save
This collection of essays and speeches by Audre Lorde explores the experiences of Black women, lesbians, and other marginalized groups.
Save
This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of Cora, a young slave who escapes to freedom via the Underground Railroad.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/xlefxi/black
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Rating
4.9
Effort
8 hours to complete
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Alberta
Instructor
Dr. W. Andy Knight
Language
English
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