Mississauga Culture: Lost Then Found

Mississauga people and other Aboriginal groups have had very important history in Oshawa that is underappreciated and unacknowledged as a result of forced cultural assimilation and racism. This problem can be fixed through reconciliation and active efforts in schools and the community to teach people about this valuable history that shows the Mississauga people’s culture and the harm European Canadians have caused. The education system has greatly improved in this area, with history courses discussing residential schools, English courses using texts written by Aboriginal authors, and Indigenous studies courses being offered. Very little specific information about Mississauga people and the history of Oshawa is taught in this community’s schools, however, although much information is available. Thus, to make students aware of this history, school boards should implement strategies to educate students through extra circulars. Participating in events such as Orange Shirt Day, which commemorates Aboriginal people who are survivors of residential schools, creates awareness in the community about the harmful experiences Aboriginal people have endured (Kalvapalle). Schools could also host powwows and celebrate National Aboriginal History Month, thereby teaching students about traditional Aboriginal culture and allowing the Mississauga history in Oshawa to be incorporated (“National Aboriginal History Month”). Having these events in the community would allow adults to also become aware of Mississauga heritage and contributions to Oshawa and current reconciliation efforts initiated by all levels of government.