Toward Indigenous Ultimate Permanence: Examining Settler Colonialism and Genocidal Elimination in Canada and Israel

Abstract

This thesis critically compares technologies of settler colonialism and genocidal elimination in Canada and Israel. Keeping with the argument that recognizes settler colonialism as an entity that destroys to replace, genocide is taken up as a theoretical framing device that addresses comparable methods of both the material and discursive elimination of Indigenous peoples in Canada and Palestinians within and outside of Israel. At the same time as the two settler states continue to commit genocide against the original inhabitants of the lands they have stolen, Canada and Israel utilize similar selfpromotion strategies that present themselves as humanitarian and democratic, a specific tool used to wash away the sins of settler colonialism and genocide. While no two settler regimes are exactly the same, this thesis identifies key structural similarities between the two states and makes the case for an international solidarity movement rooted in principles of anti-colonialism and Indigenous ultimate permanence. I am incredibly grateful for the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at CarletonUniversity, without which this thesis would never have been conceived, written, tirelessly edited, defended, and accepted. The material and intellectual supports I have received as a graduate student have been of the utmost help throughout these unconventional two years, and I am proud to continue on the academic journey that I first began in 2014 as an undergraduate student, the spirit of which continues to inspire me eight years later.I am indebted to my supervisor, Dr. Nahla Abdo, for her immense scholarly contributions, the wealth of knowledge and guidance she provided me with as I completed this thesis, and her knack for pushing me to challenge myself and recognize my intellectual capabilities. On more than one occasion I have succumbed to the overwhelming tendencies of imposter syndrome and procrastination that are so typical of graduate students, and on each occasion Nahla firmly, yet kindly, reminded me to simply keep going, advice that will remain with me long after this thesis has been tucked away in the Carleton archives. Nahla, your support and advocacy has meant the world to me throughout this entire process.I must emphasize the tremendous support I received from Dr. Amina Mire throughout this past year, both in the classroom and as part of my committee. Amina, I will forever value the many conversations we have had which have left me feeling inspired, challenged, and wholeheartedly supported. You have truly helped to instill a great deal of confidence in me, which, despite my better efforts, was often lacking. Every student would be better off having you in their corner, whether inside or outside of the classroom. I will always be grateful for having gotten to know you.To my friends who have been along for the entire ride, thank you for boosting me, for listening to me, for encouraging me. Dani and Janelle, I'd be lost without the two of you.Thank you for being the Best Bens I could ever ask for. To the Crew, tha...