Trauma and Resilience: An Indigenous Lens
This three-part unit, Trauma and Resilience Through an Indigenous Lens, introduces students to the historical and contemporary impacts of trauma within Native American communities. Through a series of interactive lessons, students explore trauma as both a psychological and social phenomenon recognizing the significance of collective and intergenerational experiences. The unit begins by examining how historical events, such as colonization, forced relocation, and boarding schools, continue to shape the lived realities of Native communities today. Students engage with multimedia resources and participate in group discussions to reflect on how understanding this history is vital to addressing present-day challenges. In the second lesson, the focus shifts to intergenerational trauma, offering students insight into how trauma is passed down within families and how community support and cultural strength play essential roles in healing. This lesson emphasizes the importance of resilience-building within Indigenous communities and provides students the opportunity to begin creating personal, reflective responses through art or writing. The final lesson uplists celebration of Indigenous resilience, brilliance, and success. Students explore contemporary stories of Indigenous strength through video and discussion, and express their understanding through creative works such as poetry, storytelling, or visual art. A reflective sharing circle concludes the unit, fostering empathy, self-expression, and a deeper cultural awareness. Throughout the unit, students build critical thinking and empathy skills, while engaging with important themes of identity, history, and healing. Assessments include both discussion-based and a creative project that captures students’ personal understanding of trauma and resilience.