Alan Long's Images
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I have always been fascinated with how early non-Native Canadians dramatized the past, and projected their images of Indians for the entertainment and education of others. This image reminds us how history was often viewed through a white lens that distorted and dehumanized Aboriginal people and their culture. The poor girl with the frown on her face and holding a very white papoose in the bottom right hand corner of the photograph appears to have Aboriginal heritage. |
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This is a fascinating image of three young Aboriginal girls posing for a photograph in early Saskatoon. They were probably part of the large contingent of Native and Metis people displaced by the white settlers and forced to live nomadic lifestyles to survive. They have a distinct attitude in their stance that to me suggests strength and survival. |
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A great photograph of some of the Aboriginal men from Whitecap reserve posing for the camera in the summer of 1910. They appear to be out having a good time, and look ready to take on anything. Unfortunately many of men like this were not allowed to participate in the economy beyond being hired labour for the incoming white settlers. |
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This is one of a series photographs of a non-Aboriginal man and an African Canadian woman being married in a traditional Aboriginal ceremony on reserve. In my opinion it speaks of the open and accepting atmosphere of Aboriginal communities to accept people from all backgrounds who are genuinely interested in their culture. (This is image number 3 of the series.) |