Telling Our Twisted Histories CBC Podcasts

It's made its way into Canada's political vocabulary and into Indigenous communities. Some see it as yet another empty promise; others see it as a path forward. It's a word that is both divisive and complicated. Together, we will look at the fractured relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations to look for a way forward that is balanced and fair.

Through missionary work and later, the government-funded residential school system, our rituals and spiritual practices were broken. We were forced to follow Christianity's top-down, hierarchical doctrine, under its vengeful and punitive god, but our circular worldview survived. In our view, all things coexist in an interconnected relationship with the universe. Together, we will decolonize the word GOD and uncover the richness of our spiritual traditions.

The word OBEY does not exist in Indigenous languages. Our ancestors lived by their own systems of governance that sought to maintain harmony among all living things. The concept of obedience was forced upon us by church and government authorities. It slowly took hold and changed both our way of life and our way of governing ourselves. The time has come to consider regaining our sovereignty and reclaiming our original ways of decision making.

Flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt and a bit of water. Beloved and delicious, this traditional fry bread is a staple in Indigenous kitchens, but its colonial roots come with serious health repercussions
This episode is a mouth-watering journey decolonizing the word BANNOCK.

How do you dismantle the colonial myth of POCAHONTAS? Disney's portrait of the Indian Princess has been indelibly pressed into young minds: she is naïve and noble, sexualized, innocent, and needy of a white saviour to win her heart.

In reality, Indigenous women have always played strong and valued roles in their communities, leading by will and courage. Western society has created the archetype of the Good Indian, frozen in time, smiling and helpful. Together, we will decolonize this stereotype and examine portrayals of Indigenous people in Hollywood and beyond.

How did we go from 'noble savages' to 'dirty savages'? Over time, the meaning of the word has shifted from natural, free, and pure to a derogatory word used to diminish us and cast us aside. Indigenous people were considered "uncivilized", synonymous with barbaric, bestial, and cruel. This word has inflicted deep wounds and fuels prejudices to this day. Together, we’ll recall the true meaning of the word SAVAGE, and explore its current impact.