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Challenge Racism and Colonialism

faculty Despite Canada's reputation as a "multicultural" country, there are profound inequalities among Canadians, as well as between Canadians and Aboriginal Peoples. Our new and innovative Race, Ethnicity and Indigeneity (REI) program - the only one of its kind in Canada - challenges these inequalities by examining how they thrive in our everyday experiences, addressing how they are promoted by Canadian governments and institutions and exploring how we can work towards social change.

Students in this innovative program have their choice of three fields - Diaspora Studies, Indigenous Studies, or Globalization and Migration studies.

Diaspora Studies explores both the multiple social processes which result in the formation of diasporic communities, and the issues facing specific diasporic communities. Our intensive focus on anti-racism, immigration, and refugee issues is central to this field.

Indigenous Studies address the histories, values, cultural expression, and concerns of Indigenous peoples, with a strong focus on self-empowerment, as well as their relationships with other racialized communities and with Canada as a whole. Visit the Indigenous Studies Web site for additional details.

Globalization Studies focuses on contemporary global capitalism and transnationalism,analyzing the boundaries between nation states,and the migration of people as a result of globalization.

All students take core courses that conceptually link these fields of study, to enable a deeper understanding of the issues facing racialized, ethnic, and Aboriginal communities. Watch a video to learn more.

Why REI at York?

  • Our program is leading-edge - a first in Canada.
  • Study in an interdisciplinary learning environment renowned for teaching and research excellence.
  • Address a range of critical issues from land claims and the struggles of residential school survivors to immigration, refugee legislation and racial profiling.
  • Strategize for meaningful economic, social and policy change, while gaining critical analytical and communication skills favoured by today's employers.

You can pursue the REI program full-time or part-time through our BA, BA Honours, or BA Specialized Honours options. You can also combine your studies in REI with other disciplines such as History and Economics by earning a BA Honours Double Major/Minor or a BA Honours Minor. As a graduate, you will be well prepared for leadership roles in areas such as law, immigration, social work, health care, education, government and non-governmental organizations. See our detailed description page for more information.