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Empowering Indigenous Voices
Diversifying Indigenous Voices Mediaplanet spoke with Ben Borne, the first Indigenous certified Communication Management Professional and co-founder of SymmetryPR, about the power of representation and storytelling.
P H OTO C O U RT ESY O F DAV I D STO B B E
Ben Borne
As the co-founder of a communications consultancy, what would you say is the importance of storytelling? Storytelling has the power to create more inclusive, generous, and responsible communities. Well-crafted, authentic stories can be transformative — they create new understandings, compel people to change behaviours, and drive cultural movements. Look at the powerful stories of residential school survivors — these personal stories have influenced and changed how many people begin to learn the truth of systemic racism in Canada.
Where do you think the gaps are in the representation of Indigenous peoples and their stories in media, and how can communications professionals and media companies begin to close this gap? I think often, if unintentionally, stories told about Indigenous peoples in the media can tend to take on one
individual’s perspective as representative of very diverse Nations, which can pose a barrier to authentic Indigenous representation. To start closing this gap, we need to think about who is telling these stories, and start promoting Indigenous storytellers so they can author the stories that have the power to shape and influence our culture. I would also challenge non-Indigenous journalists and communicators to continue to do the work to become more aware of the lens through which they write these stories, and to broaden their perspective.
What’s something that the audience should consider when learning about Indigenous history and culture that is often overlooked?
reconciliation is a lifelong and very personal journey that is paired with reconcili-action. That action is up to you but should be a direct reflection of your personal response to what you know and feel about the truth of Indigenous history in Canada.
Do you have any advice to inspire and encourage future Indigenous communicators? If you’re interested in the communications profession, connect with other communicators. Find a professional association. Find other Indigenous communicators. But most importantly, learn your story and get ready to tell it. You have a lot to offer, and many organizations across Canada are ready to embrace your voice.
Learning about Indigenous history and culture is the first step, and recognizing that Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples have very different experiences and worldviews. However, it’s important to remember that
Indigenizing the Economy with Data-Driven Research Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business
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ince 1984, the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB) has been committed to the full participation of Indigenous peoples in the Canadian economy. Our work is backed by data-driven research, recognized by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) as the gold standard on Indigenous business data in Canada, on the barriers and opportunities for Indigenous businesses, business capacity, and supply chain analysis that has informed both government and corporate policy. From the research done by the CCAB, we know that
without meaningful and real Indigenous partnerships, the Canadian economy would be at further risk. Our members are also aware and understand that Canadians owe it to Indigenous communities to implicitly share in the rebuilding opportunities that will increase the Indigenous economy and benefit us all. Rebuilding our economy together isn’t something that will happen immediately, but as we continue to find solutions to move forward in this “new normal,” it’s vital to do so in collaboration and consultation with one another.
To gain more understanding and to participate in helping to rebuild and strengthen the path toward a healthy and prosperous Indigenous economy, join us on September 22nd for the CCAB’s Business Recovery Forum.
For more information on the CCAB, visit ccab.com. This article was supported through partnership with CCAB.
Publisher: Sabrina Seecharran Business Development Manager: Chelsea Siemon Country Manager Nina Theodorlis Content and Production Manager Raymond Fan Designer: Tirza Yassa Web Editor: Karthik Talwar All images are from Getty Images unless otherwise credited. This section was created by Mediaplanet and did not involve National Post or its editorial departments. Send all inquiries to ca.editorial@mediaplanet.com.
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