ANALYZING POLITICAL CARTOONS
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When it comes to addressing the issues that First Nations face in their communities, blame is tossed around, which causes more harm than good. This political cartoon illustrates that situation in one of the most showcased community in news lately, Attawapiskat; as written on the traditional First Nations canoe the characters are on. There are three identifiable groups in this political cartoon. One group being the First Nation chiefs, who stand on the left side of the canoe, and are illustrated by the style of their hair and the jackets. Another group in this political cartoon is the government, who stand on the right side of the canoe, and are illustrated as former Prime Minister Harper and his government. Then there is the smallest, yet still identifiable group of First Nations, in the middle, who seem to be in distress. The meaning of this political cartoon is to show how poorly First Nations are being dealt with. Due to blame being tossed around, this causes no collaboration for a solution. Since the First Nations chiefs and the Harper government are standing on both sides of the canoe, it shows how they have complete opposite views; and the “blame” text and finger pointing demonstrates the large debate between the two groups. As demonstrated in this cartoon by the boat being shaken (lots of waves in water indicates this) and the words wrapping around the innocent First Nations, this cartoon is showing the viewer that there will be harm and no help for the First Nations should the blame still be tossed around. In all, this political cartoon is sending a message to Canadians that blame is being pointed in both directions at the cost of the First Nations community members.
Take a look at some effective political cartoons about issues First Nations are facing in Canada. Who are the characters in the cartoon? What message are you receiving?