Jennifer Brant – The Conversation

Thematically curated reading lists from the Indigenous Literatures Lab at the University of Toronto provide thoughtful narratives that align with the lived realities of Indigenous readers. (Jennifer Brant)

March 26, 2026

The real truth about stories: Book recommendations from the Indigenous Literatures Lab

Jennifer Brant, University of Toronto; Erenna Morrison, University of Toronto; Gayatri Thakor, University of Toronto; Jasmine Rice, University of Toronto, and Miyopin Cheechoo, University of Toronto

Can we recommend replacement books for Thomas King on Indigenous reading lists? No, but we can recommend some of the many Indigenous authors whose brilliant work unsettles and expands literary study.

A heart garden at University of Manitoba honours relatives, children who never came home, families that had their children taken, Survivors and intergenerational Survivors of Residential Schools. (University of Manitoba Faculty of Education)

September 30, 2024

Indigenous students and faculty are on the rise – and universities have a moral obligation to support them

Jennifer Brant, University of Toronto and Frank Deer, University of Manitoba

When universities declare commitments to reconciliation, these commitments must accompany changes necessary to ensure Indigenous students are truly welcomed and celebrated on campuses.

A school shift towards reading Indigenous literature shows students and our society the importance of learning about Indigenous perspectives, cultures, contributions and histories. (Jennifer Brant)

September 28, 2023

Indigenous‑authored novels: 5 great contemporary reads for young adults

Jennifer Brant, University of Toronto; Erenna Morrison, University of Toronto; Gayatri Thakor, University of Toronto, and Meagan Hamilton, University of Toronto

Researchers from an Indigenous literatures lab examine texts that are well-suited for a new Grade 11 course, First Voices.

The Toronto District School Board is among Ontario boards committed to teaching a Grade 11 mandatory course called First Voices. (Jennifer Brant)

February 7, 2023

First Voices: New Grade 11 English courses can support reconciliation and resurgence by centring Indigenous literature

Jennifer Brant, University of Toronto

For Indigenous literature courses to be successful, Indigenous cultural safety must be centred, and commitment to teacher professional development is a must.

Kyla Henry, from Roseau River and Winnipeg, performs a Jingle Dress dance with Carson Robinson, from Sagkeeng First Nation, during a concert at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg in June 2018. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods

May 28, 2020

Indigenous communities come together virtually during coronavirus despite barriers and inequities

Jennifer Brant, University of Toronto

Indigenous communities are connecting over digital communities to survive and resist.

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