Title: Indigenous Voices Rise in Saskatchewan’s Media Landscape
In a cozy radio studio at the First Nations University of Canada in Regina, a group of students participating in a journalism and broadcasting course are gearing up to cover a powwow. The energy is palpable as they adjust their microphones and dive into discussions about their breakfast choices.
Leading the charge is Jaida Beaudin-Herney, a proud alumna of the Indigenous Communication Arts program at FNUC. Hailing from the Membertou First Nation in Nova Scotia, Beaudin-Herney is on a mission to challenge the misrepresentations and dehumanization of Indigenous communities in the media.
Her sentiments resonate with the findings of a recent Canadian Association of Journalists report, which revealed a fluctuating number of Indigenous journalists in newsrooms across the country. Despite the challenges, Beaudin-Herney remains optimistic about the progress being made through programs like INCA and Indigenous-specific news outlets.
One such outlet is the Eagle Feather News, where Kerry Benjoe, editor-in-chief and a member of the Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation, has been championing authentic storytelling for over two decades. The publication’s switch to a quarterly format demonstrates the resilience and adaptability needed to continue serving Indigenous communities in Saskatchewan.
The impact of Indigenous-focused media is evident in northern communities like Lac La Ronge, where Chief Tammy Cook-Searson emphasizes the crucial role that local news outlets play in keeping residents informed and connected, especially during crises like wildfires.
Even in the face of challenges such as funding cuts and shifting media landscapes, the commitment to sharing Indigenous stories remains unwavering. Merelda Fiddler-Potter, an assistant professor at FNUC, stresses the importance of storytelling in Indigenous culture and its role in fostering understanding and reconciliation.
Meanwhile, non-Indigenous individuals like Dan Senick are also stepping up to amplify Indigenous voices through initiatives like Saskatchewan Indigenous News. By highlighting positive stories and providing a platform for Indigenous communities across the province, publications like these are helping bridge divides and foster inclusivity.
As the media landscape in Saskatchewan continues to evolve, the emergence of new voices and perspectives is shaping a more diverse and inclusive narrative for all. Through collaboration, empathy, and a commitment to authentic storytelling, the future of journalism in the province looks bright.
And with Indigenous voices at the forefront, the path to reconciliation and understanding becomes clearer than ever.
In a cozy radio studio at the First Nations University of Canada in Regina, a group of students participating in a journalism and broadcasting course are gearing up to cover a powwow. The energy is palpable as they adjust their microphones and dive into discussions about their breakfast choices.
Leading the charge is Jaida Beaudin-Herney, a proud alumna of the Indigenous Communication Arts program at FNUC. Hailing from the Membertou First Nation in Nova Scotia, Beaudin-Herney is on a mission to challenge the misrepresentations and dehumanization of Indigenous communities in the media.
Her sentiments resonate with the findings of a recent Canadian Association of Journalists report, which revealed a fluctuating number of Indigenous journalists in newsrooms across the country. Despite the challenges, Beaudin-Herney remains optimistic about the progress being made through programs like INCA and Indigenous-specific news outlets.
One such outlet is the Eagle Feather News, where Kerry Benjoe, editor-in-chief and a member of the Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation, has been championing authentic storytelling for over two decades. The publication’s switch to a quarterly format demonstrates the resilience and adaptability needed to continue serving Indigenous communities in Saskatchewan.
The impact of Indigenous-focused media is evident in northern communities like Lac La Ronge, where Chief Tammy Cook-Searson emphasizes the crucial role that local news outlets play in keeping residents informed and connected, especially during crises like wildfires.
Even in the face of challenges such as funding cuts and shifting media landscapes, the commitment to sharing Indigenous stories remains unwavering. Merelda Fiddler-Potter, an assistant professor at FNUC, stresses the importance of storytelling in Indigenous culture and its role in fostering understanding and reconciliation.
Meanwhile, non-Indigenous individuals like Dan Senick are also stepping up to amplify Indigenous voices through initiatives like Saskatchewan Indigenous News. By highlighting positive stories and providing a platform for Indigenous communities across the province, publications like these are helping bridge divides and foster inclusivity.
As the media landscape in Saskatchewan continues to evolve, the emergence of new voices and perspectives is shaping a more diverse and inclusive narrative for all. Through collaboration, empathy, and a commitment to authentic storytelling, the future of journalism in the province looks bright.
And with Indigenous voices at the forefront, the path to reconciliation and understanding becomes clearer than ever.
