Introduction

This chapter will focus on the impact of global colonization, its influence on current immigration trends, and how it shaped Canada as a country. There will be an emphasis on the assimilation policies experienced by Indigenous Peoples in Canada, and the economic barriers and discrimination that are perpetuated by systems formed during colonial times. This chapter focuses on the ways colonization has impacted the formation of Canada, with an emphasis on the long-term impacts on Indigenous, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. The history of colonization has impacted Indigenous Peoples across the globe, dramatically shaping the social, political, and economic structures of the world. Colonization, the rise of capitalism, and our current system of globalization are intricately linked, continuing to impact access to resources and contribute to the systems of economic inequality within and among nations.

This chapter will also examine the systemic discrimination and economic barriers experienced within these systems. As a community support worker, it is important to have an understanding of the impacts of colonization within Canada and around the world. This history continues to perpetuate systemic barriers and discrimination, unequal access to resources, and global conflict. These factors in turn influence migration patterns and the settlement resources available for newcomers when immigrating to a new country. Thinking critically about the impact of these global systems and their effect on individuals is important so that you are able to assist clients from a reflective and knowledgeable position.