Denials of Racism in Canadian English Language Textbooks

This critical discourse analysis examines denials of racism in descriptions of Canada and Canadians from English language textbooks. Denials of racism often accompany racist and nationalist discourse, preempting observations of racism. The study finds that in representations of Canada or Canadians, English language texts minimize and downplay racism in Canada's past and present while problematically and uncritically constructing Canadians as committed to multiculturalism and ethnic and racial diversity. The authors echo the call made by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission for antiracist education and education materials that speak frankly of racism in Canadian history.