Healing the Traumas of Indigenous Colonization with Allen Sutherland - White Spotted Horse

Hosted by Rosemary Davies-Janes.

Produced by J’aime Rothbard.

Featured Music:  Ko'ona (Fluffy Snow) Saber

Aabita Benesikaa-Kwe

Half Thunderbird Women

Lynx Clan, Treaty 1 Territory

Red Shadow Singers of Turtle Lodge Treaty 2 Territory

Join us for an inspiring and informative interview with Allen Sutherland, an esteemed Anishinaabe Elder, Traditional Knowledge Keeper, Healer, Speaker, Teacher and Historian whose work has already made a generational difference in Canada. 

For 25+ years, Allen focused on raising awareness of the impact of colonization on Indigenous peoples in Canada and around the world, from the European crusades of the 13th century, to the golden age of the fur trade in Canada. This was a 250 year period during which the generosity of the Anishinaabe—people of the kind heart—helped new colonists learn to survive in their new homeland. He speaks of the original agreements to live and trade together, and how implementing the Indian Act in 1876 (currently the only racial legislation enforced by any county in the world) replaced the golden age, and agreed upon treaties, with an age of deception, oppression and heartbreak.

With deep compassion, Allen illuminates the traumatic history of Canada’s indigenous populations, and the intergenerational trauma adaptations that have resulted from these wounding experiences. He also shares:

- Why the Compassionate Inquiry® approach is particularly helpful in Indigenous healing circles

- What it takes to heal trauma rooted in colonial oppression, the resilience of Indigenous peoples and the need for ongoing healing efforts

- The process of reclaiming identity lost through colonial laws and the importance of reflecting on this journey, ancestral knowledge and community involvement, in intergenerational healing

- Links between alarming health statistics among Indigenous populations today and the historical somatic legacy of colonization trauma

- How lateral kindness can counteract lateral violence within communities

Allen also speaks about his current work as a healer, and how traditional healing is often a last resort for indigenous people overwhelmed by allopathic medical diagnoses and prognoses. He describes how he determines the healing approach required for each individual by integrating wisdom from his heart, his essence and intuition, with that of his own and his clients’ spirit guides.

The interview concludes with a demonstration of Anishinaabe generosity. Allen invites non indigenous people seeking answers and healing to attend traditional indigenous ceremonies, for as he says, the common denominator in all Anishinaabe teachings is spirit, love and wanting a better place for all.

About Allen Sutherland

Allen, also known by his spirit name Waabshkii Masinazoot Michtaatim (White Spotted Horse), is of the Anishinaabe Bizhiw Doodem (Lynx Clan), and a member of Skownan First Nation, Treaty 2 Territory. An esteemed Anishinaabe Elder, Traditional Knowledge Keeper, Healer, and Historian, his work in the public has made a generational difference in Canada. 

Allen’s deep Anishinaabek roots enable him to be a conduit between Traditional and Contem- porary Worlds. For 30+ years, he has worked in First Nations, Federal/Provincial Governments, and is involved in grassroots community work.

A sought-after facilitator, trainer and resource on the history and culture of the Anishinaabe of Turtle Island, he is well known for his creation of Canadian Indigenous Timeline Posters and Red River de Metis posters. 

Today Allen lives his life purpose as an Anishinaabek Historian, Traditional Knowledge Keeper and Healer with ever expanding healing bundles. He is the Knowledge Keeper East of 2 Child & Family Service Agencies with Treaty 2 Territory, the Lodge Keeper of Ginew Healing Lodge, and lives in Treaty 1 Territory, Cooks Creek, Manitoba. 

Promotional Link: You can experience the power of Gabor Maté’s trauma healing approach, whether you are or are not a therapist or healer. This link takes you to a web page that offers information about Compassionate Inquiry's Circles Program. 

Episode Related Resources:

Websites: Allen’s professional siteSpeaking & InterviewsHealingTimeline Posters

Relevant Links: Intergenerational Trauma: Residential SchoolsCanada’s Indian ActWhat We Carry for Our Ancestors: Intergenerational HealingTo Heal the Nation We Need UnderstandingTreaties in CanadaIntergenerational trauma and resiliency on health and wellness of First Nations peoples in CanadaCompassionate Inquiry®

Featured Music:  Ko'ona (Fluffy Snow) Saber

Aabita Benesikaa-Kwe

Half Thunderbird Women

Lynx Clan, Treaty 1 Territory

Red Shadow Singers of Turtle Lodge Treaty 2 TerritoryThe Red Shadow Singers ask that their songs, received through ceremony, be used in spiritual ways for healing or prayer. 

Books: I Am My Culture Indigenous Peoples Atlas of Canada For Indigenous Minds Only: A Decolonization HandbookIndigenous Children’s Survivance in Public Schools

Statistic Source: Indigenous Trauma and Reconciliation

Allen’s Social Media: Facebook