#10: Watch CBC's 8th Fire

Wab Kinew's 8th Fire series on CBC is one of my absolute favourite series that brings the message of reconciliation and truth forward to the masses. It operates in a space of education not one of guilt. This four part series provides a wide range of information on the history and current affairs of Canadian's Indigenous people; and even though it was produced five years ago the message is right on point for today. 

Wab Kinew, who is now a Member of Legislative Assembly in Manitoba, travelled coast to coast encouraging ways that Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Canada can mend the relationship and together develop a mutually beneficial and respectful future. The series provides the context behind the ongoing struggle to rediscover culture that was nearly extinguished and the successes of artists, business minded leaders and in particular youth to overcome an overwhelming amount of barriers.

I've watched it once a year since it first aired and it reminds me of one important fact, that many Canadians, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous have a total grasp on our journey over the last 500. More importantly, I learn something new from the series every time I take the time to really listen. This year, I learned a completely new term (Part 2, 8:00) - "perenially-poor", as new gardener this term really stuck with me. The context it was used in was in relation to the Indian Act and the fact that Indigenous communities were isolated and every aspect of their lives were prescribed by that particular piece of legislation.  Don't want to go too far into the content as I want you to watch the four part series, but it is really good. I have it on my iTunes so can watch or show someone anytime on my iPhone. For those not a big fan of iTunes, I suggest watching it on CBC or on YouTube. 

Below is a teaser, just 2 minutes of the series but an informative 2 minutes at that.