Face To Face

Residential school survivor calls on Catholic church to compensate survivors

On this episode of Face to Face: Lorraine Seymour Seymour is a residential school survivor who has remained close with her fellow survivors from Treaty 3. A group of them travelled to Maskwacis last summer to hear the papal apology from Pope Francis.

Paulina Alexis says Reservation Dogs is representing Indigenous Peoples in a truthful way

On this episode of Face to Face: Paulina Alexis Paulina Alexis is a breakout star on the series Reservation Dogs with her character Willie Jack. She was also cast in the award-winning film Beans, set during the so-called Oka Crisis.

New grand chief wants to bring culture of healing to Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs

On this episode of Face to Face: Cathy Merrick Cathy Merrick made history when she was recently elected as Grand Chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, becoming the first woman to lead the organization.

Bird Runningwater is reversing the erasure of Indigenous Peoples in popular culture

On this episode of Face to Face: Bird Runningwater Bird has been the director of Sundance Institute's Native American and Indigenous Program for over two decades. He has now created his own production company and has a first-look deal with Amazon Studios.

Métis singer-songwriter says she wouldn’t be here today without her sobriety

On this episode of Face to Face: Brandi Vezina Métis singer-songwriter Brandi Vezina has been nominated for five 2022 Manitoba Country Music Association Awards. She has been sober for a decade and says music has been her “saving grace.”

Saulteaux-Cree politician feels Saskatchewan is scared of vocal, educated, First Nations women

On this episode of Face to Face: Betty Nippi-Albright Betty Nippi-Albright was elected MLA for Saskatoon Centre in 2020. She says witnessing the racism Indigenous people were facing compelled her to run for office.

Medical association’s first Indigenous president looks to fix health care crisis, considering a future in politics

On this episode of Face to Face: Dr. Alika Lafontaine Dr. Alika Lafontaine is the first-ever Indigenous president of the Canadian Medical Association. He says his path to becoming president wasn't an easy one.

Cree lawyer considered leaving law after Gerald Stanley verdict

On this episode of Face to Face: Eleanore Sunchild Sunchild is a Cree lawyer and a member of Thunderchild First Nation in Saskatchewan. She says representing the family of Colten Boushie has been the defining case of her career.

Healing and support needed in the wake of mass stabbings says Saskatoon Tribal Council chief

On this episode of Face to Face: Mark Arcand Arcand is the tribal chief of the Saskatoon Tribal Council, which represents seven First Nations. In September 2022, Arcand lost his sister and nephew in a deadly stabbing spree in Saskatchewan.

Autumn Peltier hopes to meet the prime minister face to face again

On this episode of Face to Face: Autumn Peltier Peltier rose to prominence at 12 years old when she told Trudeau she was not happy with his choices on pipeline projects. She has spoken at the United Nations and has received honours for her advocacy.

New book details lasting effects of hydroelectric projects in Manitoba

On this episode of Face to Face: Aimée Craft Craft is a lawyer, academic and co-editor of a book that is amplifying the voices of Indigenous peoples impacted by Manitoba Hydro dams.

MMIWG advocate says cost of not implementing calls for justice is a ‘continuance of violence’

On this episode of Face to Face: Hilda Anderson-Pyrz Hilda Anderson-Pyrz has been a tireless advocate for Indigenous women and a leader to end gender-based and race-based violence for more than 20 years. She is currently chair of the National Family and Survivors Circle in Canada.

Roland Vandal, survivor of abuse and addiction, commits life to help others

On this episode of Face to Face: Roland Vandal During his years of addiction, Vandal says he had overdosed many times, been hospitalized numerous times and survived a stabbing. Vandal has been vocal about his experiences. He believes it has helped other people dealing with abuse and addiction.

‘Everybody needs to go’: First Nations member of Thunder Bay police board calls for sweeping changes

On this episode of Face to Face: Georjann Morriseau Morriseau is a former chief of Fort William First Nation in northern Ontario and a member of the Thunder Bay police services board. She has called her time on the board disheartening and appalling.

‘60s Scoop survivor Leah Ballantyne grew up thinking she was the only one

On this episode of Face to Face: Leah Ballantyne Leah Ballantyne is a ‘60s Scoop survivor and the first person from her community of Mathias Colomb Cree Nation to become a lawyer. She discusses her experience being a ‘60s Scoop survivor and shares her thoughts on people who falsely claim Indigenous identity.

Kevin Chief on WASAC, politics and his love for square dancing

On this episode of Face to Face: Kevin Chief Kevin Chief is known for many things in Winnipeg and Manitoba, including being a former MLA and his current ventures as a public speaker and advocate for young Indigenous people. He shares why sport is so important to kids' lives.

Former professional wrestler from Sagkeeng First Nation talks about the road to recovery

Stefan Richard has just about seen and done everything. The former wrestler and public speaker is now the host of radio, television and podcasts. The road here wasn’t easy. He nearly lost everything, including his life to drug addiction. His story on this Face to Face.

Patty Hajdu says anti-Indigenous racism must be addressed in Thunder Bay – and her own department

On this episode of Face to Face: Patty Hajdu Prior to politics, Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu was the executive director of Shelter House in Thunder Bay. There she saw firsthand the racism Indigenous peoples deal with every day.

Federal government is good at making ‘Indigenous peoples feel worthless’ says former civil servant

On this episode of Face to Face: Letitia Wells As a former government of Canada employee, Wells has spoken out against systemic racism. She’s sharing what led her to be a civil servant and the proposed class-action lawsuit that followed.

Métis National Council moving forward after years of ‘dysfunction’ says MNO president

On this episode of Face to Face: Margaret Froh Elected as the first female president of the Métis Nation of Ontario, Froh is currently serving her second term. She’s joining host Dennis Ward to discuss what’s been unfolding between different Métis organizations.

U.S. coverage of Indigenous issues improving but still a battle over misinformation, says Kiowa journalist

On this episode of Face to Face: Tristan Ahtone A member of the Kiowa Tribe, Ahtone has worked for National Geographic, NPR and more. Now the award-winning journalist is the editor at large for Grist – an organization telling stories of climate solutions.

Decades into her acting career, Crystle Lightning feels like she finally got her breakout role

On this episode of Face to Face: Crystle Lightning Lightning is an award-winning actress, DJ and musician from Enoch Cree Nation in Alberta. After winning numerous awards and appearing in hit shows, she joins host Dennis Ward to share what’s next.

‘We’re going to continue to lose lives’ if recommendations not acted on says First Nations fire expert

On this episode of Face to Face: Blaine Wiggins Within one month this year, at least nine people have died in house fires on First Nations. As the executive director of the Aboriginal Firefighters Association of Canada, Wiggins is bringing awareness to the gaps in services.

MMIWG national inquiry lacked federal support from the beginning says former chief commissioner

On this episode of Face to Face: Marion Buller After serving as the chief commissioner of the National Inquiry into MMIWG, Buller says there was a lack of federal support from the beginning. She’s sitting down with host Dennis Ward to share insight into the inquiry.

Inuk rocker Willie Thrasher is enjoying a resurgence

Award-winning musician Logan Staats reconnecting with culture and finding light in the darkness

On this episode of Face to Face: Logan Staats Staats is an award-winning musician and land defender from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory. He shares his story after recently being arrested while joining the fight against the Coastal GasLink pipeline project.

‘It’s the power we have in ourselves:’ Advocate Tania Cameron is trying to change the system

On this episode of Face to Face: Tania Cameron Whether it's food security or voting rights, Tania Cameron is not only pointing out the inequalities - she's working to address them.

Governments need to stop politicizing the lives of First Nations children says Cindy Blackstock

Career in journalism helps ’60s Scoop survivor reconnect with culture

Recording artist Mattmac, born blind, makes an impact with his music

On this episode of Face to Face: Mattmac Matthew Monias has been blind since birth but hasn’t let that stop him as a music producer and recording artist. Growing up in Garden Hill First Nation, Monias says music has helped him overcome his depression.

Ted Nolan opens up on his career in hockey, both good and bad

On this episode of Face to Face: Ted Nolan From Garden River First Nation, Nolan played for the Detroit Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins. Nolan sits down with guest host Darrell Stranger to share his experience coaching in the NHL and the tension behind the scenes.

Filmmaker Danis Goulet and the re-writing 100 years of Hollywood misconceptions

On this episode of Face to Face: Danis Goulet Cree Métis filmmaker Danis Goulet recently released her feature film directorial debut Night Raiders - an Indigenous sci-fi thriller. It holds the record for the widest release for an Indigenous film in Canada.

Stephanie Scott, head of NCTR says church needs to hand over school documents

On this episode of Face to Face: Stephanie Scott A ‘60s Scoop survivor from Roseau River First Nation, Scott was announced as the new executive director of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation in March of 2021 – the first Indigenous woman in the role.

Tara Houska and the sacrifice of being on the front lines of resistance

On this episode of Face to Face: Tara Houska. Tara is from Couchiching First Nation in northern Ontario. She is the founder of Giniw Collective, an Indigenous women, Two-spirit led frontline resistance to protect the earth.

New leader says Métis National Council is stepping into new era

On this episode of Face to Face: Cassidy Caron. Caron is the first-ever woman elected president of the Métis National Council during a special sitting of the general assembly. She looks back on that historic day and what the future holds for the organization.

Métis Cree MP Blake Desjarlais enters politics to protect identity

On this episode of Face to Face: NDP MP Blake Desjarlais. Blake was elected as MP for Edmonton Griesbach in the 2021 federal election. From Fishing Lake Metis Settlement in Alberta, Blake is the only Indigenous MP in the province – and the first to be openly Two-Spirit.

IndigiNews is doing journalism in B.C. with different standards

On this episode of Face to Face: Brielle Morgan and Emilee Gilpin. Editors with IndigiNews, a news outlet based in British Columbia, they’re sitting down with host Dennis Ward to discuss the changes happening in media and what sets their organization apart.

Painting ‘almost like medicine’ for up and coming artist Blake Angeconeb

On this episode of Face to Face: Anishinaabe artist Blake Angeconeb. From Lac Seul First Nation in northern Ontario, Blake’s work blends woodlands art with pop culture references. He sits down with Dennis Ward to share his story and the inspiration behind his paintings.

Residential school survivor Geraldine Shingoose says Trudeau’s apology ‘means nothing to me’

On this episode of Face to Face: Warrior Geraldine Shingoose. Geraldine attended Muscowequan Residential School in Saskatchewan from 1962 to 1971. For those in Winnipeg, she is a staple at events and sought after for her knowledge and views on reconciliation.

Tom Wilson is trying to honour his culture with every word he writes and every stroke of his brush

On this episode of Face to Face: Singer-songwriter and artist Tom Wilson. Wilson is a three-time Juno Award-winning musician and an accomplished artist whose work has been shown across Canada and the United States. It wasn't until Tom was in his 50's that he learned the truth about his identity. Something he detailed in his 2017 memoir - Beautiful Scars.

Mohawk actor Devery Jacobs says ‘we’re only scratching the surface’ of Indigenous storytelling

On the season premiere of Face to Face: Mohawk actor Kawennáhere Devery Jacobs sits down with host Dennis Ward to discuss Indigenous representation in the film industry - also a look at what’s next for Jacobs following the success of Reservation Dogs.

Sheila North running for AMC grand chief and penning memoir

Our guest on this episode of Face to Face is Sheila North. The long time journalist and former grand chief of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak has just announced her intentions to run for the grand chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. North, who also ran for the national chief of the Assembly of First Nations is also set to release a memoir in the fall of 2021.

Cree journalist Connie Walker immerses herself in the stories of women she’ll never meet

Our guest on this episode of Face to Face is award winning Cree journalist Connie Walker, from the Okanese First Nation in Saskatchewan. She had a lengthy career with the national broadcaster. Connie is now the host of Stolen: The Search for Jermain - a podcast for Gimlet Media.

AFN Regional Chief Kevin Hart

Our guest on this episode of Face to Face is AFN Regional Chief for Manitoba Kevin Hart. He has held many portfolios including water, housing, child welfare and MMIWG. Hart just announced he will not be seeking a third term as regional chief for Manitoba.

Indigenous helmed shows mark ‘significant moment’ in television history says Cree actor

Our guest on this episode of Face to Face is actor, director and educator Michael Greyeyes. Michael who is Plains Cree from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation in Saskatchewan has had a diverse career on stage and on the screen. To some he is best known for his role as Gooch in the movie “Dance Me Outside”. He is currently starring in the American sitcom “Rutherford Falls” - a show garnering a lot of buzz.

First Nation Sensation portrayed his wrestling gimmick in a positive way

Our guest on this episode of Face to Face is the First Nations sensation, pro wrestler Wavell Starr. Starr is a member of the Star Blanket First Nation in Saskatchewan. He has held numerous titles including the Canadian Wresting Federation's Heavy Weight Championship.

Award winning filmmaker tackles misrepresentation of crisis in her nation

Our guest on this episode of Face to Face is writer, director, producer and actor, Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers. Elle-Máijá is a member of the Kainai First Nation as well as Sámi from Norway. Her latest film is ‘Kímmapiiyipitssini: The Meaning of Empathy’ - an intimate portrait of her community and the impacts of the substance use and overdose epidemic.

Anishinaabe singer-songwriter Leonard Sumner is making music to work through grief

Our guest on this episode of Face to Face is Anishinaabe singer-songwriter Leonard Sumner. The Juno nominated artist is from Little Saskatchewan First Nation in Manitoba’s Interlake. In March of 2021, he released his latest album - Thunderbird.

Métis collective who feel they’re ‘not being heard’ are speaking up

Our guest on this episode of Face to Face are Breanne Lavallee-Heckert and Seraph-Eden Carr. They are part of Red River Echoes - a collective of Metis in Manitoba and beyond who are raising concerns over a series of statements and actions by the leadership of the Manitoba Metis Federation. The collective first spoke out after the MMF took out a full page advertisement in a Winnipeg newspaper expressing solidarity with the city’s police service.

Family connections run deep at Qaumajuq exhibit in Winnipeg

Our guest on this episode of Face to Face is Heather Igloliorte an Inuk scholar, curator and art historian from Nunatsiavut. Heather is an associate professor of Indigenous art history at Concordia College in Montreal. She is also one of the curators of INUA - the first exhibition at Qaumajuq the Winnipeg Art Gallery's new Inuit art centre.