Colonization

Colonization is the process in which one group—usually a powerful nation or empire—takes control over the land, resources, and social structures of another group. This often includes:
 

• Taking land and extracting resources

• Imposing new political and economic systems

• Suppressing or replacing Indigenous languages

• Erasing or restricting cultural practices and traditions

• Reshaping social relationships and hierarchies

• Controlling education, religion, and daily life
   

Colonization often leads to the loss or weakening of a community’s identity, traditional knowledge, and cultural continuity, and many of these impacts continue across generations.

Decolonization

Decolonization has two connected meanings:

1. Political decolonization (Independence)

This is when a colonized nation gains political freedom from a colonial power.
Example: India gaining independence from the British Empire in 1947.
Political decolonization restores control over government, laws, and territory.

2. Social, cultural, and linguistic decolonization

This is an ongoing process aimed at addressing the long-term cultural and social impacts of colonization. It often includes:

• Reviving and protecting Indigenous languages

• Reclaiming cultural practices, ceremonies, and traditions

• Supporting Indigenous arts, stories, and knowledge systems

• Challenging colonial narratives in schools, museums, and public spaces

• Rebuilding community connections and relationships disrupted by colonization

• Restoring autonomy, identity, and representation
   

Cultural decolonization is about reaffirming identity, rebuilding traditions, and creating space for Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and relating.