Nilesh Patel, a friend of mine from High School, filmed and directed a movie in 2006 called “Brocket 99: Rocking the Country”. The film was created to spark authentic dialogue between First Nations and non-aboriginal peoples in the hopes of tackling stereotypes and promoting increased tolerance. I recently had a chance to talk with Nilesh, who described some of his experiences of the past 10 years, making documentary movies with First Nations groups across BC and Alberta. We discussed how attitudes towards First Nations groups varies greatly depending on the region and how some First Nation groups are making strides to regain sovereignty, while others fall behind and still face oppressive resistance and hostility. Reflecting on our discussion, I think of how government in Western Canada is eagerly pursuing an “economy first, use it or lose it” agenda. I question, “Where does culture of indigenous peoples fit within an ideology of resource extraction and economic growth?” I believe economic development has put indigenous peoples at a crossroads today. The race is on to preserve traditional ways, especially language, in the face of massive global economic pressure and corporate interests.

To start my inquiry, I will look at three distinctly different regions of Western Canada and the groups of indigenous peoples that live within these regions: Duncan, BC (Cowichan Tribes); Fort McKay, Alberta (Cree, Dene, and Metis); and Inuvik, Northwest Territory (Inuvialuit, Gwich’in, and Metis). I will examine the industry that exists within these areas and how economics has affected and continues to affect these First Nations peoples. I will then study how these indigenous groups are using technology to help retain and pass on what is vital to their way of life. Lastly, I will look at how these First Nations groups are utilizing the internet as a space to promote culture and identity.

Mel Burgess.