She’d collected the dreams like bright beads on a string of nights that wound around her each day, every day until this one. (p173) - Cherie Dimaline

There must always be connection to nation when we tell stories. Taking a pan-Indigenous approach doesn’t work. Taking a colonial viewpoint doesn’t work. This changes the narrative of specific nations and is highly problematic. It leads to misunderstanding, misrepresentation, and stereotypes.

Canada would be a much better place for all of us if Canadians read more Indigenous lit. People often ask how they can be good allies, how they can work with our communities, and often feel left outside of the circle. Welcoming you into our stories is the best way we have to welcome you in, and to ensure that when you get there, you have a better understanding of who we are and what your role can be.

We need better educated and positioned allies, and literature is one way to make this happen.