The Effects of Colonialism on Indigenous Matriarchal Communities in Canada
By Samantha Davis

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the effects of colonialism on Indigenous women as well as other members of Indigenous matriarchal communities across Canada. Matriarchy and the importance of mothers and children will be discussed first. Followed by colonization including a brief explanation of the Indian Act and the Residential School policy. Finishing with some of the physical, mental and emotional impacts that forced colonization has had on Indigenous women and their families.