I began this little blog back in 2011 with posts focusing mostly on the Cree language, with some forays into reflections on Aboriginal law. I had maybe ten regular readers which was fine really. I was mostly trying to gather my thoughts.
But later that year, I wrote a post about Attawapiskat that went viral and ended up published in the National Post. Having found an audience, I kept writing about Indigenous Peoples in Canada, addressing current events and wider issues around misconceptions and stereotypes. It felt generative and useful and most importantly, it became a labour-saving device for other Indigenous folks who were trying to push back against hostile national narratives, and that was my biggest goal for this project.
All through the Idle No More movement, I kept writing, and finally in 2016 those writings became a book. Indigenous Writes: A Guide to First Nations, Métis & Inuit Issues in Canada.
To be perfectly frank, this book changed my life. It put me in conversation with folks all over Canada and beyond. After years and years of trying to educate Canadians about Indigenous Peoples, it finally felt like a conversation was really happening! It made me realize just how powerful the written word can be, coupled with on-the-ground efforts.
I never anticipated that Indigenous Writes would become a bestseller! It was taken up as textbook in high schools and universities, it was being used by organizations as part of their ongoing professional development. Newcomers were picking it up and discovering new information about their new country! I had conversations with people in taxi cabs, at formal events, in classrooms, and community centres.
As time passed, I hoped to find a moment to update the book to reflect emerging public discourse, but by that time I was a full-time lecturer at the Faculty of Native Studies at the University of Alberta. I didn’t actually find the moment I needed until I left my position and decided to focus on writing full-time. Turns out, that’s exactly what I needed, and I was able to create a second edition, just in time for the tenth anniversary of Indigenous Writes.
I’m excited to announce that the second edition comes out this fall, with refreshed statistics and research, expanded and updated discussions about First Nations, Métis, and Inuit identity and so many other topics. Also, that new cover? Absolute chef’s kiss.
I have a lot of other writing projects on the go that I’m also excited to share, but it all began because of this one book. I honestly can’t wait to hold the new edition in my hands this September, and I hope you feel the same way!
You can pre-order now, from Portage & Main Press.
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