Empowering Indigenous Voices in Saskatchewan: A Look at the Changing Landscape of Journalism
Nestled within the walls of a converted meeting room on the second floor of the First Nations University of Canada in Regina lies a small radio studio, buzzing with activity. Here, students from the Indigenous Communication Arts (INCA) program are diving headfirst into the world of journalism and broadcasting during a six-day crash course. Amidst adjusting microphones and checking audio levels, conversations range from breakfast choices to the task at hand—covering a powwow.
Guiding these eager minds is Jaida Beaudin-Herney, a proud alumni of the INCA program who hails from the Membertou First Nation in Nova Scotia. Beaudin-Herney shares her passion for storytelling and the vital need for Indigenous representation in media, shedding light on the historical misrepresentations and stereotypes that have plagued Indigenous communities.
The Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ) data reveals a fluctuating presence of Indigenous journalists across the country, highlighting the strides made but also the challenges that persist. Despite setbacks, programs like INCA and Indigenous-focused publications offer hope for authentic storytelling and representation.
Kerry Benjoe, editor-in-chief of Eagle Feather News, emphasizes the importance of taking time to delve into Indigenous stories to ensure accurate and respectful coverage. Benjoe’s commitment to ensuring Indigenous stories reach communities is unwavering, even as EFN recently transitioned to a quarterly magazine format due to financial constraints.
In northern Saskatchewan, Chief Tammy Cook-Searson of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band emphasizes the critical role that local Indigenous news outlets play in keeping communities informed and connected. The absence of such platforms, as seen during EFN’s hiatus, underscores the need for diverse voices and perspectives to be heard.
As the landscape of journalism evolves, individuals like Merelda Fiddler-Potter, an assistant professor at FNUC, stress the central role of storytelling in Indigenous culture and its impact on reconciliation efforts. Dan Senick’s initiative with Saskatchewan Indigenous News further amplifies Indigenous voices, showcasing untold stories and positive narratives from Indigenous communities across the province.
In a rapidly changing media environment, the emergence of new publications and the dedication of aspiring journalists like Hannah Scott demonstrate a growing commitment to amplifying Indigenous voices and fostering allyship within the industry. The resilience and determination of Indigenous journalists and communities pave the way for a future where storytelling is a powerful tool for connection and understanding.
As the
Nestled within the walls of a converted meeting room on the second floor of the First Nations University of Canada in Regina lies a small radio studio, buzzing with activity. Here, students from the Indigenous Communication Arts (INCA) program are diving headfirst into the world of journalism and broadcasting during a six-day crash course. Amidst adjusting microphones and checking audio levels, conversations range from breakfast choices to the task at hand—covering a powwow.
Guiding these eager minds is Jaida Beaudin-Herney, a proud alumni of the INCA program who hails from the Membertou First Nation in Nova Scotia. Beaudin-Herney shares her passion for storytelling and the vital need for Indigenous representation in media, shedding light on the historical misrepresentations and stereotypes that have plagued Indigenous communities.
The Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ) data reveals a fluctuating presence of Indigenous journalists across the country, highlighting the strides made but also the challenges that persist. Despite setbacks, programs like INCA and Indigenous-focused publications offer hope for authentic storytelling and representation.
Kerry Benjoe, editor-in-chief of Eagle Feather News, emphasizes the importance of taking time to delve into Indigenous stories to ensure accurate and respectful coverage. Benjoe’s commitment to ensuring Indigenous stories reach communities is unwavering, even as EFN recently transitioned to a quarterly magazine format due to financial constraints.
In northern Saskatchewan, Chief Tammy Cook-Searson of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band emphasizes the critical role that local Indigenous news outlets play in keeping communities informed and connected. The absence of such platforms, as seen during EFN’s hiatus, underscores the need for diverse voices and perspectives to be heard.
As the landscape of journalism evolves, individuals like Merelda Fiddler-Potter, an assistant professor at FNUC, stress the central role of storytelling in Indigenous culture and its impact on reconciliation efforts. Dan Senick’s initiative with Saskatchewan Indigenous News further amplifies Indigenous voices, showcasing untold stories and positive narratives from Indigenous communities across the province.
In a rapidly changing media environment, the emergence of new publications and the dedication of aspiring journalists like Hannah Scott demonstrate a growing commitment to amplifying Indigenous voices and fostering allyship within the industry. The resilience and determination of Indigenous journalists and communities pave the way for a future where storytelling is a powerful tool for connection and understanding.
As the
