N.L. schools ordered to destroy new books containing ‘inaccurate information’ on Indigenous people

Newfoundland and Labrador’s Department of Education recently made headlines after ordering its schools to dispose of thousands of books that were found to contain inaccurate information about the territories, culture, and history of the province’s Indigenous peoples. The decision to shred some 8,600 textbooks, purchased for over $200,000 in January 2023, was made following a report by the government’s Indigenous Education Advisory Committee, which highlighted that the books did not accurately reflect the cultural reality in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The problematic textbooks in question belong to the Passe à l’action pour la réconciliation series, used by Grade 7 and 8 French immersion students. The department identified several issues with the books, including the incorrect portrayal of the Turtle Island creation story as being universal to all Indigenous peoples. Additionally, the textbooks contained stereotypical descriptions of Indigenous lifestyles, such as the assertion that “eastern peoples hunt caribou and western people fish.”

Furthermore, the books were criticized for inaccurate statements, such as the claim that no Indigenous peoples pay taxes and that all receive free post-secondary education. The department also noted that the textbooks incorrectly stated that elders are always the oldest members of Indigenous communities and that all Indigenous groups have clan systems, which may not be accurate for Inuit and First Nations in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Provincial Education Minister, Krista Lynn Howell, declined an interview regarding the matter. This decision was met with criticism from NDP Leader Jim Dinn, who questioned how the inaccurate textbooks made their way into schools in the first place. Dinn expressed concern over perpetuating stereotypes through education and emphasized the importance of accurate and respectful representation of Indigenous peoples.

The department defended its decision to dispose of the books, stating that it is routine to eliminate outdated or inaccurate educational resources to prevent the perpetuation of false information. While the books have been destroyed, they have not yet been replaced. The department assured that it is working with the Indigenous advisory committee to assess available educational resources and ensure that future materials accurately represent the Indigenous peoples of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of culturally sensitive and accurate education materials, particularly when it comes to teaching Indigenous history and culture. Moving forward, it is essential for educational institutions to prioritize the inclusion of diverse perspectives and ensure that all students have access to respectful and authentic representations of Indigenous peoples in their learning materials.