Episode 2: Reserve

Answer the following questions based on this episode in full sentences.

1. How does Kaniehtiio Horn describe the word "reserve" and its implications?

According to Kaniehtiio Horn, the term "reserve" connotes for Indigenous peoples a lack of
ownership and a state of alienation. She calls attention to the phrase's implication that the
land is "reserved" by the government rather than belonging to the people, like a military
base where the Queen or the government controls everything. She also emphasizes how
the word "reserve" has political connotations that are connected to dehumanization,
assimilation, and control over Indigenous people—a process that robs them of their
freedom to make their own decisions.

2. What are some of the negative connotations associated with the word "reserve"
mentioned by the individuals in the transcript?
The word "reserve" has several negative connotations, some of which were brought up by
people in the transcript: isolation; the practice of colonialism to remove Indigenous people
from their lands; comparisons between reserves and POW or concentration camps;
implications of assimilation; control; and the taking away of Indigenous people's right to
make their own decisions. The phrase is perceived as a control tactic against Indigenous
populations and as a sign of the loss of identity, culture, and freedom.

3. How does the concept of "reserve" relate to the historical and ongoing conflicts
between settler communities and Indigenous reserves in Canada?

The term "reserve" refers to the land ownership and control dispute that has historically
and currently exists in Canada between Indigenous reserves and colonial communities.
Reserves are frequently the outcome of colonial policies that drive Indigenous peoples
from their original territories and limit them to predetermined regions. This has led to
conflicts between Indigenous people and settlers over resources and land rights, as
evidenced by events like the Oka crisis in 1990. Reservation creation has played a major
role in the marginalization of Indigenous peoples and the maintenance of colonial rule.
4. How do some individuals in the transcript compare reserves to concentration
camps or prisoner of war camps?

Certain individuals in the transcript highlight the limitations and supervision imposed on
Indigenous populations living in reserves by drawing parallels between them and
concentration or POW camps. They see reservations as symbols of oppression and
imprisonment, where Native Americans are deprived of their identity and forced to live
under unjust laws. The analogy draws attention to the injustices, diminished autonomy, and
cultural repression experienced by Indigenous peoples residing on reservations.

5. What are some of the impacts and challenges faced by communities living in
reserves?

The everyday life and general well-being of Indigenous communities residing on reserves
are greatly impacted by a variety of issues. In many reserves, the lack of access to clean
water, adequate housing, healthcare facilities, and education has made living conditions
worse and contributed to health issues. A deficiency of fundamental needs sustains
poverty cycles in these areas. Furthermore, socioeconomic problems are prevalent in
reserves, including high rates of food insecurity, alcoholism, poverty, and unemployment.
Bias and discrimination from the past, combined with limited opportunities for intellectual or
even economic advancement, exacerbate these issues. People thus struggle to obtain
fulfilling work or to secure stable financial situations.

6. How do some individuals express pride and a sense of community in their reserves
despite the challenges they face?

People living in reserve villages exhibit a strong feeling of pride, resiliency, and community
in spite of these challenges. A lot of people stress the need of getting together to help one
another preserve their cultural heritage. Despite the cultural tyranny imposed by
colonialism, people actively work to resuscitate their languages, customs, and rituals within
their reserves, creating a feeling of culture and identity. Community gatherings for
celebrations and events are crucial for fostering relationships and a sense of belonging.
Festivals, celebrations, and powwows are a few types of occasions. The resiliency and
cohesiveness of communities depend on these kinds of events.
7. What alternative term does Noah Swappie suggest using instead of "reserve," and
what is his reasoning?

Instead of calling it a "reserve," Noah Swappie proposes calling it a "community," pointing

out that the term "reserve" connotes colonialism and implies a confined area, whereas
"community" more accurately captures the collective identity and viewpoints of Indigenous
peoples. Swappie aims to restore Indigenous identity and subvert colonial narratives by
altering the vocabulary used to describe Indigenous territories.

8. Reflecting on the perspectives shared in the transcript, what are your thoughts on
the word "reserve" and its association with Indigenous communities in Canada? Did you
know what reserves were prior to listening to this episode?

Upon considering the various viewpoints presented in the transcript, it is apparent that the
term "reserve" holds significant historical and cultural value for Indigenous communities in
Canada. I knew the basics of reserves—lands set aside for Indigenous peoples—before
listening to this episode. But after reading the transcript with its human testimony and
insights, I have a better understanding of the problems and ramifications surrounding the
phrase "reserve." The viewpoints clarified the continued effects of colonization, such as the
loss of autonomy, the repression of cultural expression, and the economical difficulties that
Indigenous populations on reservations confront. I've discovered that it's critical to
scrutinize and question the terminology used to characterize Indigenous territories.