Pathways of Settler Decolonization

Although settler colonialism is a deeply entrenched structural problem, Indigenous peoples have always resisted it and sought to protect their land, sovereignty, and treaties. Some settlers have aimed to support Indigenous peoples in these struggles. This book examines what happens when settlers engage with and attempt to transform settler colonial systems.

What does ‘decolonizing’ action look like? What roles can settlers play? What challenges, complexities, and barriers arise? And what opportunities and possibilities emerge? The authors emphasize the need for settlers to develop long-term relationships of accountability with Indigenous peoples and the land, participate in meaningful dialogue, and respect Indigenous laws and jurisdiction. Writing from multiple disciplinary lenses, and focusing on diverse research settings, from Turtle Island (North America) to Palestine, the authors show that transforming settler colonial relations and consciousness is an ongoing, iterative, and unsettling process that occurs through social justice-focused action, critical self-reflection, and dynamic-yet-committed relationships with Indigenous peoples.

This book was originally published as a special issue of Settler Colonial Studies.

Lynne Davis is a settler Canadian of Eastern European ancestry who now resides in Nogojiwanong (Peterborough, Canada), Michi Saagig territory, and is an Associate Professor in the Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies at Trent University, Peterborough, Canada. Her current research interests include transforming settler consciousness and decolonizing Indigenous-settler alliances.

Jeffrey S. Denis is a settler Canadian of mixed European ancestry who now resides on 'Dish with One Spoon' territory (Hamilton, Canada) and is an Associate Professor of Sociology at McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada. His research investigates the social processes that shape the well-being of historically marginalized communities and the strategies, alliances, policies, and practices that can bring about more just and sustainable societies.

Raven Sinclair is Nehiyaw (Cree) from George Gordon First Nation, Treaty 4 (Saskatchewan, Canada), and is a Professor of Social Work at the University of Regina, Canada. Her academic and research interests include Indigenous knowledge and research methodologies, the synthesis of traditional and contemporary healing theories and modalities, aboriginal cultural identity issues, adoption, colonial and decolonization theories, and mental health and wellness.