SOC551 - Ethnic and Race Relations in Canada

Subject Title
Ethnic and Race Relations in Canada

Subject Description
This subject will examine the sociological significance of culture, ethnicity, and race in Canada. In examining the multicultural and multiracial fabric of Canadian society, this subject will explore the social and economic impact of immigration and the socioeconomic conditions of various ethnic and racial groups. This examination will also focus on the socioeconomic status and experience of minority women in Canada. As part of its analysis of social and cultural diversity, this subject will also explore the relationship between the French and the English and the current constitutional crisis. The study of social and economic inequality and governmental policies which try to address this inequality will be part of the examination of current issues related to the way that ethnic and racial diversity affects social relations in Canada. A critical component of the study of race relations will be an examination of the history and treatment of First Nations Peoples in Canada. This study will include an investigation of such areas as the social and economic conditions of First Nations Peoples, the significance and ramifications of the Indian Act, current constitutional issues which involve treaty rights and self-government, and relations between native peoples and white society. Through the study of the various aspects of ethnic and race relations, students will be able to apply their knowledge and bring a critical awareness to the field of law enforcement in such areas as governmental policy (in terms of multiculturalism), human rights (as enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms), and community policing.

Credit Status
One General Education elective credit in the Sciences & Social Sciences category

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

1. explain the sociological dimensions of culture, ethnicity, race, gender, and class
2. describe the historical development of cultural and racial diversity in Canada; included here is an explanation of the cultural and social differences between the French and the English, as well as the cultural values and social and governmental structures of Native Peoples
3. explain and support with evidence the presence of prejudice and discrimination in Canada
4. explain current theories about social inequality and socioeconomic stratification in Canada
5. analyze the historical reasons for socioeconomic inequality in Canada by exploring the colonization of Native Peoples and the creation of the reservation system, the conflict between the French and the English, the use of culturally selective immigration policies, the exploitation of the labour of minority groups, and the treatment of minority women
6. identify the social and economic problems faced by minority groups, minority women, and Native Peoples
7. compare the different approaches to cultural and racial diversity and to immigration, such as integration and assimilation; included in this comparison is an explanation of the assimilative policy towards Native Peoples and the social and cultural consequences of this state policy
8. assess the importance of both the Canadian Constitution, in reference to human rights, and government legislation, such as the Indian Act, in shaping ethnic and race relations in Canada.
9. evaluate the importance of government policies and legislation, which support and protect minority communities, including legislation and policies related to Native Peoples
10. analyze the nature of ethnic and race relations from the past to the present by focusing on socioeconomic status, politics, and the justice system
11. analyze the evolving nature of ethnic and race relations in terms of government policy, such as multiculturalism and limited autonomy for aboriginal peoples, and constitutional issues, such as human rights (in terms of the Charter of Rights and Freedom), asymmetrical federalism, and treaty rights
12. apply knowledge of issues related to cultural and racial diversity to community relations, to government services (such as law enforcement), and to the work place
13. demonstrate effective written and verbal communication skills in expressing one?s knowledge of given areas of study and in applying this knowledge to concrete situations in the context of social relations

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

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