
Sylva’s research interest explores the ways in which Gladue report writes consider historical trauma theory to demonstrate the application of background and systemic factors. This includes the management of vicarious trauma as Gladue writers are inevitably exposed to instances where stressors may be exacerbated. His research is augmented through his work as Co-Manager of the Ottawa Pro Bono Gladue Report Pilot Project. Sylva has been working in the field of historical trauma theory as his MA thesis is entitled A Significant Negative Impact: Assessing the link between Historical Trauma Theory, Indigenous Child Removal Policies and the Disproportionate Number of Indigenous Children in the Child Welfare System.
Supervisor: Dr. Jane Dickson
Second Reader: Dr. Zeina Bou-Zeid
Education
- MA Legal Studies, Carleton University
- BA (Hon) Major Law, Minor English, Carleton University
- Diploma in Applied Holistic Nutrition, The Institute of Holistic Nutrition
- Gladue Report Writer Training Certificate, Royal Roads University & Indigenous Perspectives Society
Upcoming Teaching Experience
Winter 2024: LAWS 2908: Approaches in Legal Studies I
Winter 2025: LAWS 4603: Transitional Justice
Publications
- Sylva Sheridan, “The Spectacle and Reification of Traumapower in Game of Thrones” (2023) 53:3 Canadian Review of American Studies 217.
- Sylva Sheridan, “Progression Through Regression: The Inferno of Daenerys Targaryen” (2019) 49:1 Canadian Review of American Studies 66.
Scholarships and Awards:
2024-2025 – Ontario Graduate Scholarship ($15, 000)
Op-Ed
Sylva Sheridan, “There can never be reconciliation without the entire truth” (June 28, 2021) online: The Hamilton Spectator https://www.thespec.com/opinion/contributors/there-can-never-be-reconciliation-without-the-entire-truth/article_d43cd1e2-f498-532e-8e88-4ea6b7a7307c.html?.
Conference Presentations
- “Analyzing Historical Trauma Theory in Application to the Intergenerational Effects of Indian Residential Schools”, Trent University Frosty Centre Graduate Student Association: Canada in Times of Crisis, October 2021.
- “Biological Approaches to Trauma”, University of Toronto Legal Studies Symposium, April 2023.