First Nations experts want inclusion in process when Quebec develops new history courses

First Nations experts want to be included in the process when the Quebec government develops new history courses for its classrooms across the province. The Quebec government has stated it feels the sovereignty issue has had short-shrift in schools and now wants to “reinforce” its “national history.” The Quebec Native Women organization wants the courses to include a significant amount of history involving and affecting First Nations. “We want to do it to combat the racism and prejudice that we must confront every day,” said Viviane Michel, president of Quebec Native Women. The Liberals accuse the ruling PQ of developing the curriculum in private with “sovereigntist-minded historians” that will result in an ideological program. The government has not stated if Aboriginal people will be involved in the process, or if their history is to be included.