Jessica Presta: Module 3, Post 1

As my research focus for the final project has pivoted to looking at how Indigenous people identify and represent themselves online, some key questions had to be answered. First, my project-mate and I have to agree on a definition of identity, determining whether or not this is ascribed, prescribed or subscribed. Second, we need to situate our research in our respective places, looking at similarities and differences between Indigenous groups in British Columbia and Ontario.

As a starting place for my research, I began looking into what level of Indigenous representation exists online in my local context. Once I get a sense of how Indigenous people use social media to share their identities online, I can start to make inferences about how to interpret their definition of identity. Then I can take these inferences and so how they align with what is in the literature.

In my investigations, I came across some unique and inspiring Indigenous content creators who are sharing parts of their identity across platforms such as YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. The first content creator I want to share is Owen Unruh.

He is a Vernon born, two-spirit, Nêhiyaw (Cree) with ties to the Driftpile First Nations. He was adopted and raised in Fort Nelson. Growing up he experienced immense shame as a result of his queerness and Indigenous identity. Due to this he turned to drugs and has struggled with addiction. Owen leverages social media platforms such as TikTok to share his journey with addiction recovery, reclaiming his identity and reconnecting with his cultural roots. His goal with sharing his story is to inspire other Indigenous youth to feel comfortable in their skin and to value sobriety.

@owen.unruh

I always think of what to say after the fact ???? #vancouver #toronto #fyp #addiction #native

♬ original sound – Owen Unruh