| This thesis explores the perceptions of six non-Aboriginal, employed knowledge producers (academics, film-makers, journalists) who are of Euro-Canadian background, and whose work is primarily on Aboriginal issues and peoples. The author, also an outsider researcher of Euro-Canadian descent, begins by noting that a cultural genocide is presently occurring in Canada with respect to Aboriginal people. Through exploring in depth Aboriginal views on knowledge production, including the concept of writing as resistance, the thesis shows how Aboriginal peoples have clearly articulated their need to 'tell their own stories' and how critical are the issues of access and appropriation to the Aboriginal communities faced with cultural genocide.;Exploring the views of white knowledge producers using qualitative research methods, the thesis is able to show that, often, white writers defend their 'right' to work on Aboriginal issues through relying on a conceptual framework of cultural difference. That is, Aboriginal peoples are seen as culturally different from the mainstream, as peoples who require 'help' in telling their stories. The thesis concludes that white knowledge producers will contribute to cultural genocide unless they become critically aware of Aboriginal views, and of the impact of their own activities on a continuing cultural genocide. Relying on roles such as facilitators or bridges between cultures enables white knowledge producers to minimize the continuing oppression of Aboriginal people in which they play a part. The study is grounded in critical race theory, and is a reflection of the discourse of cultural difference and its relation to the knowledge production of dominant groups within society. The importance of social responsibility, tracing one's power and privilege as it enters into exchanges between Native and non-Native people, and recognizing one's complicity as Euro-Canadian group members in a racist society like Canada's, is emphasized. |
