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The settlers look to the stars: R. A. Rosenfeld, ‘Exploring the History of Colonialism and Astronomy in Canada’, Journal of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, 117, 2, 2021, pp. 89-95

30Mar21

Abstract: Many societies have recently experienced increasing calls for racial and social justice, spurred by lethal abuses of authority and power originating in systemic imbalances. Land acknowledgements of varying degrees of sincerity have been confected, statues of slave traders have been toppled, and buildings, streets, and communities have been renamed. Research and educational institutions have not been untouched by this; the statements and records of benefactors have come under increased scrutiny. Many bodies, including astronomical ones, have started processes of self examination, and established committees to address issues of reform. The problems are generally considered to arise from colonialism continuing to shape post-colonial societies—an unwelcome haunting of the present by the past. The better we know that past, the better equipped we are to change what has to be changed. This paper looks at the history of colonialism and astronomy in Canada. 


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