7 Podcasts for National Truth & Reconciliation Day
Discover Incredible Indigenous Voices
1. Actor Lorne Cardinal
You may recognize this charming face, Lorne Cardinal played Davis on the hit Canadian TV sitcom Corner Gas. Beyond that he has worked much of his life as an actor. Beyond the silver screen, Lorne passionately champions Indigenous rights, lending his voice to audiobooks from renowned Indigenous authors like Bruce McIvor and Thomas King.
2. Author Bruce McIvor
Bruce McIvor, author of "Stand Off: Why Reconciliation Fails Indigenous People and How to Fix It,” and I delve into whether land acknowledgments actually silence Indigenous voices and the power of humor in challenging norms and advocating for Indigenous communities.
We unmask the impacts of colonization and discuss the ongoing struggle for true reconciliation, shedding light on the harms of “pretendians” and the perpetuation of discrimination against Indigenous people. Bruce, a renowned advocate for Indigenous rights, and I invite you to join this insightful discussion, as we navigate complex matters and emphasize accountability and meaningful advocacy in the journey toward reconciliation.
3. Elder Eddie Gardner
I had the opportunity to sit with Elder Eddie Gardner, or "T’it’elem Spath," a respected Indigenous Elder from the Skwah First Nation and an elder-in-residence at the University of the Fraser Valley, to discuss the richness of Indigenous culture, traditions, and the beautiful Halq'eméylem language.
Mr. Gardner, a committed advocate for his Indigenous language and a protector of Indigenous traditions like the Sweat Lodge ceremonies, shared insights into opportunities for reconciliation and the revitalization of Indigenous languages. Join us to embrace the wisdom and dedication of Mr. Gardner in promoting reconciliation, healing, and the preservation of Indigenous heritage.
4.Chief Willie Sellars
Willie Sellars is a member of the Williams Lake First Nation who became one of the youngest elected councillors in his community's history at age 23. He served on council for a decade before being elected Chief in 2018, and then re-elected for a second term. As Chief, Willie oversaw the negotiation of British Columbia's first government-to-government agreement on cannabis, which led to the development of Sugar Cane Cannabis, the province's first farm-gate cannabis facility. Willie is also an award-winning children's book author, having written "Dipnetting with Dad" and "Hockey with Dad".
5. First Nations Artist Roy Henry Vickers
Acclaimed First Nations Artist Roy Henry Vickers and I explore ancestral Indigenous wisdom, Vickers' journey as a colorblind artist overcoming trauma, and the complexities of First Nations art and recovery.
Roy Henry Vickers is a renowned Canadian artist, born in June 1946, who has created a significant impact through his blend of traditional First Nations imagery and contemporary techniques. His art reflects his Tsimshian, Haida, and Heiltsuk descent and a profound connection to the land. In addition to his artistic achievements, Vickers is a public speaker on creativity, healing, and spiritual growth, and he has received honors such as the Order of British Columbia and the Order of Canada for his contributions to art and Indigenous rights.
6. Jessica McDiarmid on the Highway of Tears
Jessica McDiarmid discusses her book "Highway of Tears," which illuminates the pressing call for justice, understanding, and societal reform for National Truth and Reconciliation Day. She delves into topics such as the Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Inquiry, racism and pathways to reconciliation.
7. Sto:lo Cultural Historian Sonny McHalsie
Sonny McHalsie, also known as Naxaxalhts'i is a father, grandfather, historical researcher, cultural researcher, author, editor, tour guide, educator and member of Shxw’ow’hamel First Nation.
Sonny was an editor of Towards a New Ethnohistory: Community-Engaged Scholarship among the People of the River. He was a co-author of the book Towards a New Ethnohistory: Community Engaged Scholarship among the People of the River.