Métis Speaker Series

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak to Gary Têtu, a flute maker, musician, lodge keeper, chimney sweep, tradesman and more. Gary speaks to both his own experiences in a residential school, as well as his father's experiences, including how these events have shaped his adult life. Gary shares how these experiences have led him to become a Mental Health and Recovery Support worker, supporting others in their own journeys.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak with Arlene Vrtar-Huot. Arlene is a former LPN, Social Worker and I/ED for a National Addictions Society in AB. She has delivered many Family Systems workshops. As a result, she has helped with residential school healing since 1991. She worked at Kelowna Metis Services in various capacities including Sashing ceremonies, Metis adoption and healing circles. She was Chair for Kelowna Metis Elders Advisory Council, Community Research Liaison and currently, Elder Advisor/Adjunct Professor for UBC Faculty of Medicine.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak to Métis Elder and storyteller, Tom McCallum. Born and raised in Île-à-la-Crosse, Saskatchewan, Tom shares his journey of spiritual discovery, including his time spent at a boarding (residential) school as a young boy. The episode discusses the meanings, and significance behind ceremonies and symbols in Métis culture. Tom shares what reconciliation and healing means to him and how it can look to other people.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, Linda McCullough recounts her previous life experiences attending a residential school in Cree Lake, Saskatchewan. Attending the Timber Bay School from the age of seven, Linda recalls being taken from her family suddenly and without warning. The episode follows her life at the school, including the various forms of abuse and trauma that occurred as a result. Linda speaks about the way she has embraced her indigenous heritage through beadwork art.

Join us for Season 3 of the Métis Speaker series Podcast, presented by Telus! The first episode launches on February 27 on all major podcast streaming platforms.

In this episode of the Métis Speaker Series, we speak to the regional president of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Lawrence Gervais. This discussion looks at the ways we can help amplify Métis' voices and awareness. Lawrence shares his perspective on what the role of leadership should look like within the Métis Nation and how this role can help in the economic advancement of Métis people.

In this episode of our Métis Speaker Series, Charlie Kerr shares his experience working in the entertainment industry as a member of the Métis community. He also shares his personal experience working directly within his own community of Métis people. As a singer, actor, and writer, Charlie has a great deal of experience within the industry. He shares his thoughts on Métis visibility in the entertainment industry, where Métis people have been largely invisible in the past.

Where does Justene Dion-Glowa find her inspiration for poetry? That’s what we discuss in this episode of the Métis Speaker Series. Justene writes poetry connected to her identity as a Métis person. She shares some of her work from a recent manuscript and dives into her poetic inspiration. Her story is one of personal growth and healing, interpreted through poetry.

In this episode of our Métis Speaker Series, we discuss the child welfare and justice system with Peter Lang, CMA Community President. Peter has had his own unfortunate experience with the system in connection to his late son, Nick. The interview looks at the ways that the Métis Nation can support those who share a story similar to Nick’s. Having been failed by the justice system, Peter shares his advice with other parents.

For this episode in our Métis Speaker Series, we talk about environmental protection with Kaija Heitland, a citizen of the Métis Nation of British Columbia. Kaija teaches traditional land-based arts, where she incorporates art as a method of self-reclamation and community bonding. To better understand the unique relationship that Métis people have with the land, Kaija shares her perspective on ways to build better relationships. Her story is one of community, land preservation, and understanding.