Colonial Trauma and Political Pathways to Healing

In this chapter, the unacceptable burden of psycho-social-physical-health inequalities borne by Indigenous peoples are identified as a signifier of social injustice with political pathways to resolution. Historical and contemporary forms of colonial violence and related colonial trauma are social issues that settler societies need to increase awareness of, sensitivity to, and accountability for. This chapter provides an overview of the social constructs of Indigeneity, colonialism, and colonial trauma. These constructs provide a foundation for the introduction of six political pathways to advancing social justice as a mental health strategy for promoting the health and wellness of Aboriginal peoples in Canada within a larger framework of reconciliation.