In 2018, Kathy Mallett was funded by the Manitoba Research Alliance to develop a course that aligned with the Indigenous Archives project. In the fall of 2023, the first Indigenous Resistance and Institutional Development in Winnipeg course was offered through the Department of Urban and Inner-City Studies, cross-listed with the departments of History and Indigenous Studies. 

As Kathy Mallett and Shauna MacKinnon were developing the syllabus, they struggled to find articles written by Indigenous people. Serendipitously, Lorena Fontaine, UWinnipeg Indigenous Studies and Academic Lead on Indigenization, mentioned in a casual conversation the need for a written account of the history of Indigenous women-led work in Winnipeg. Lorena’s mother, Doris Young, was involved in the development of the Native Women’s Transition Centre (now Indigenous Women’s Healing Centre). The idea grew to put together an edited collection that could be used as a textbook for the Indigenous Resistance and Institutional Development course. The late John Loxley worked closely with Kathy Mallett on the Indigenous Archives project and had also agreed to participate in the project. 

Indigenous Resistance & Development in Winnipeg 1960-2000 explores the grassroots organizing, resistance and community development in this prairie city. Co-written by Indigenous activists and academics, and edited by Kathy Mallett and Shauna MacKinnon, this book is a pioneer in recounting the stories of Indigenous resistance in the urban space.  

Exploring the rich historical grounding of Indigenous peoples grassroots organizing developed through resistance and community work, Indigenous Resistance & Development in Winnipeg 1960-2000 traces Indigenous city development through the decades, encompassing generations of Indigenous community organizers. It is the first book that recounts Winnipeg history exclusively through the impactful development and resistance work of Indigenous people and organizations. 

“By collecting together many of the key voices most immersed and involved in Indigenous resistance movements in Winnipeg from the 1960s to early 2000s, Shauna MacKinnon and Kathy Mallett have constructed an anthology that meticulously documents one of the most important periods in Canadian history – and in one of its most important places. The stories of struggle, creativity, and fierce dedication to building an Indigenous future in Winnipeg are gifts that honour this city’s collective past while colouring in the portrait of a dynamic city that has been at the forefront of colonialism, change, and reconciliation.”

– The Honourable Murray Sinclair (Former Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada and Senator) and Niigaan James Sinclair (Professor at the University of Manitoba and Columnist, The Winnipeg Free Press)

“These inspiring stories bring you on a journey of resistance and resilience, drawing attention to the inherent strength of the Indigenous community while illustrating the connection between Indigenous knowledge and ways of being to the healing of our children, families and communities. A wonderful representation of the importance of Indigenous voices and why Indigenous communities and leaders must lead in the development of policy and programming for Indigenous people.”

— Tammy Christensen, Executive Director, Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre

“This powerful and inspiring book pays tribute and honour to the incredible Indigenous women and leaders who have led change in the North End community. Through their trailblazing efforts, these women have shown us what true leadership 1neans, with focus on strengthening community, supporting children and families, and using their voices to create positive change. The power of storytelling brings the voices and legacies of these leaders to life, highlighting the collaborative efforts, activism, and wisdom that have shaped the North End and the not-for-profit organizations to bring meaningful support to the community today. Through their dedicated work, these women and leaders have brought Indigenous-led programming and support to children and families in Winnipeg, making a tremendous difference in the lives of so many. These powerful words allow for a deeper understanding of the history of Indigenous leadership, the true meaning of community work in the North End, and the ongoing importance of this legacy for future generations.”

— Dana Riccio Arabe, Executive Director at Blue Thunderbird Family Care