Nipissing University alumnus, James Corbiere, has embarked on a mission to reshape the narrative surrounding Canadian history through his innovative educational board game, Truth in Truth and Reconciliation. The game offers an Indigenous perspective on colonization and reconciliation, aiming to foster understanding and critical dialogue about historical injustices.
Corbiere's journey began during his time at Nipissing, where he pursued a Bachelor of Education. His decision to attend Nipissing was initially motivated by convenience, commuting from his hometown of Sudbury. However, he quickly found himself immersed in a vibrant community of future educators. "I can't pin down any pivotal moment, but I worked with the best class of magical people who became teachers," he recalls, emphasizing the lasting impact of his peers.
The idea for Truth in Truth and Reconciliation emerged while Corbiere was creating a study guide for his students. Seeking to make exam preparation more engaging, he developed a set of flashcards that presented Canadian historical events from an Indigenous viewpoint. Recognizing the potential for broader educational impact, he pitched the game to the Ontario Secondary School Teachers' Federation (OSSTF), which was searching for resources to help educators teach about reconciliation.
James Corbiere BEd 2003
"The goal of the game is simply to show Canadian history from an Indigenous point of view," Corbiere explains. By presenting historical events through this lens, the game encourages players to rethink and recognize the complexities of Canada's past. He notes that the game is designed to spark discussions and help players engage with these vital topics.
Throughout the development process, Corbiere faced challenges, particularly when the Catholic school boards in Ontario initially declined to endorse the game. Despite setbacks, including Nelson Education's withdrawal from publication in 2018, he persevered, motivated by his commitment to educating others.
Reflecting on his time at Nipissing, Corbiere credits the University for encouraging creativity in lesson delivery. "The classes encouraged creativity in how we delivered our lessons, which inspired me to turn textbook information into a game," he says.
Corbiere emphasizes the importance of addressing misconceptions about Indigenous history and reconciliation through education. His board game aims to provide a more accurate and detailed account of Canadian history, challenging players to confront uncomfortable truths. He advocates for a collective effort to foster meaningful relationships built on respect and understanding.
Looking ahead, Corbiere envisions his game being utilized in educational settings to foster deeper understanding and awareness. He encourages current Nipissing students who aspire to create impactful educational tools to "de-colonize," urging them to question traditional narratives and seek inclusive approaches to learning.
Corbiere's journey exemplifies the profound impact that education can have on social change. As he continues to advocate for Indigenous rights and education, he remains a proud Anishinaabe, dedicated to reclaiming and rebuilding the land and communities of his heritage. With Truth in Truth and Reconciliation, James hopes to inspire a new generation of learners to engage with history thoughtfully and compassionately, paving the way for a more equitable future.
For more information and to order a copy of the boardgame visit https://shop.medicinewheelpublishing.com/products/the-truth-in-truth-and-reconciliation-tool-kit
