Explore every episode of the podcast Truth & Politics
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Why people keep trying to claim Indigenous identity | 29 Nov 2024 | 00:18:02 | |
There is a federal by-election coming up in British Columbia on December 16. The Cloverdale—Langley City riding was held by the Liberals until the MP decided to step down and run in the recent provincial election. Small business owner Madison Fleischer is running for the Liberals but a B.C. Métis society is distancing itself from the candidate who has claimed Métis identity. Our Truth & Politics panel convenes. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| What was the nature of Randy Boissonnault's claims of being Indigenous? | 22 Nov 2024 | 00:18:08 | |
It’s a tumultuous week for Randy Boissonnault, Liberal MP for Edmonton Centre. The Prime Minister announced Wednesday that Boissonnault was out of cabinet so he could clear the air on his claims of being Indigenous. Our Truth & Politics panel weighs in. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Three Indigenous writers take home Governor General's Literary Awards | 15 Nov 2024 | 00:17:33 | |
Niigaan Sinclair is one of three Indigenous recipients of this year’s Governor General's Literary Awards. He is back on our Truth & Politics panel this week along with Jennifer Laewetz to discuss the book and the significance of the awards.
Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Truth & Politics | Coming November 15 | 14 Nov 2024 | 00:00:26 | |
We’re expanding our Truth & Politics panel into a weekly podcast. Each episode, panelists Jennifer Laewetz and Niigaan Sinclair join APTN National News hosts Dennis Ward and Creeson Agecoutay to examine key issues affecting Indigenous Peoples across Canada. Listen every Friday. | |||
| Breaking down the biggest developments from the AFN special chiefs gathering | 06 Dec 2024 | 00:07:22 | |
The Assembly of First Nations Special Chiefs Assembly wrapped up on Thursday in Ottawa. There were a lot of moving parts, including a resolution calling for a national inquiry into deaths at the hands of police. Our Truth & Politics panel breaks it down. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Why do hospitals keep cutting off elders’ hair without consent? | 13 Dec 2024 | 00:16:20 | |
This week on Truth and Politics, it’s an issue that never goes away. Several weeks ago, we told you the story of Jason Kennedy, who came to Winnipeg from the Bloodvein First Nation for a leg amputation. Staff at the Grace Hospital cut off the wrong leg. We also have had two recent stories about elderly hospital patients in Saskatoon and now Edmonton who had their hair cut by staff without family consent. Our panellists include Jennifer Laewetz, a partner with Paskwâw Harbour Strategies, and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist at the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Looking back, looking forward: Niigaan Sinclair & Jennifer Laewetz break down 2024's biggest moments & what’s next | 20 Dec 2024 | 00:16:27 | |
As 2024 winds down, Winnipeg Free Press columnist Niigaan Sinclair and Jennifer Laewetz of Paskwaw Strategies join us to reflect on the year that was and discuss what may lie ahead. That's on this week’s edition of APTN News’ Truth & Politics panel. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| To pipeline or not to pipeline – grand chief flip flops on supporting Northern Gateway | 24 Jan 2025 | 00:16:54 | |
To pipeline or not to pipeline? That’s just one of the big questions on this week’s Truth and Politics panel. Host Dennis Ward is joined by Jennifer Laewetz of Paskwaw Harbour Strategies and Winnipeg Free Press columnist Niigaan Sinclair to explore the issues. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| How Canada’s leaders are preparing for Trump’s presidency | 17 Jan 2025 | 00:14:33 | |
Donald Trump is about to be sworn in as the next president of the United States. How are our leaders preparing and what does this mean for people living in Canada? Savannah Kelly is stepping in for Dennis Ward and Creeson Agecoutay. Joining us for this week’s Truth & Politics panel are Winnipeg Free Press columnist Niigaan Sinclair and Paskwaw Strategies' Jennifer Laewetz. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Trudeau resigns, Trump returns – what’s next for Canada-U.S. relations? | 10 Jan 2025 | 00:12:41 | |
It’s shaping up to be a pivotal year in Canadian politics with the resignation of Justin Trudeau, potentially marking the end of the Liberal government. His departure has triggered a leadership race, and a federal election looms on the horizon. Joining us on the first Truth & Politics panel of 2025, with guest host Savannah Kelly, are Paskwâw Harbour Strategies' Jennifer Laewetz and Winnipeg Free Press columnist Niigaan Sinclair. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Bill Wilson’s legacy, Trump on Native Americans | 31 Jan 2025 | 00:12:02 | |
We lost a respected leader last week with the passing of Bill Wilson, a key figure in the 1980s battles over Canada’s repatriated Constitution. Wilson, a hereditary chief of the Kwakwaka'wakw Nation, was also the father of Jody Wilson-Raybould, Canada’s first Indigenous federal minister of justice and attorney general. Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump makes his stance on Native American rights crystal clear. Joining host Dennis Ward to discuss these stories are Jennifer Laewetz from Paskwaw Harbour Strategies and Winnipeg Free Press columnist Niigaan Sinclair. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Jordan’s Principle: Controversy & unmet needs | 07 Feb 2025 | 00:19:28 | |
One week after the father of Jordan River Anderson spoke out, Jordan’s Principle remains in the news—either for services not being funded or for questionable services that are. Joining host Dennis Ward to discuss are Jennifer Laewetz from Paskwaw Harbour Strategies and Winnipeg Free Press columnist Niigaan Sinclair. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Jordan’s Principle crackdown, Sainte-Marie fallout & unsolved tragedy | 14 Feb 2025 | 00:14:20 | |
The federal government is imposing new restrictions on Jordan’s Principle in response to accusations of mis-spending. Meanwhile, the fallout continues after Buffy Sainte-Marie had her Order of Canada revoked, raising questions about her legacy. On Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation, the community is mourning a tragic quadruple homicide. Police have called it a targeted attack, yet nearly two weeks later, no arrests have been made. Joining host Dennis Ward to unpack it all are Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwaw Harbour Strategies, and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Feds sign historic land back agreement with Haida Nation – but who actually benefits? | 21 Feb 2025 | 00:21:11 | |
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says Canada is "giving back" Aboriginal title of Haida Gwaii to the Haida Nation—but what does that actually mean? We break down the details and implications of this historic announcement. We’re also looking at the federal funding cuts impacting residential school Survivors and searches for unmarked burials. What’s at stake, and how are communities responding? And after 49 years behind bars, Leonard Peltier has finally returned home. But is this a moment to celebrate? Joining host Dennis Ward to unpack it all are Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Harbour Strategies, and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Former premier and police said landfill search couldn’t be done – now possible remains found | 28 Feb 2025 | 00:06:31 | |
On Wednesday afternoon, the province of Manitoba announced that human remains may have been found at the Prairie Green Landfill, where the search for the remains of two First Nations women has been underway since December. The families of Morgan Harris and Marcedes Myran spoke to the media on Thursday about the discovery. For more on this, host Dennis Ward is joined by Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Harbour Strategies, and Niigaan Sinclair, a columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Tariffs, pipelines & rising costs: What it means for Indigenous Peoples in Canada | 07 Mar 2025 | 00:15:29 | |
Donald Trump’s shifting tariff policies are affecting businesses on both sides of the border. How will Indigenous communities in Canada be impacted? Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe says all pipeline projects are pre-approved. What does that mean for First Nations rights? With food prices expected to rise, how can families prepare? And as First Nations leaders head to Las Vegas next week for a summit, what are the optics of the trip during a trade war? Host Dennis Ward is joined by Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Harbour Strategies, and Winnipeg Free Press columnist Niigaan Sinclair to break it all down. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Landfill search was a success, but politics played a role throughout the fight | 21 Mar 2025 | 00:20:14 | |
The search of a Winnipeg-area landfill for Morgan Harris and Marcedes Myran has been a success – but unfortunately, politics played a role throughout the fight to get the search done. For more on this, host Dennis Ward is joined by Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Harbour Strategies, and Niigaan Sinclair, a columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| A commitment to search landfill: Why Winnipeg police are changing their tune | 28 Mar 2025 | 00:17:07 | |
The identity of Mashkode Bizhiki'ikwe — Buffalo Woman — has been revealed more than three years after she was killed by a Winnipeg serial killer. Ashlee Shingoose’s remains are believed to be in the Brady Road landfill, south of the city. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has committed to the family that a search will happen. For more on this, our Truth and Politics panel joins host Dennis Ward. Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwaw Harbour Strategies, is on the panel this week, along with Sheila North, executive director of external Indigenous relations at the University of Winnipeg. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Mark Carney’s dad was principal of a day school – could this impact the election? | 04 Apr 2025 | 00:17:18 | |
It’s come to light this week that Prime Minister Mark Carney’s father was the principal of a Federal Indian Day School. Will this have an impact on Carney’s run this federal election? And what is Carney’s track record on Indigenous issues in this election campaign so far? For more on this, our Truth and Politics panel joins host Dennis Ward. Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press, is on the panel this week along with Sheila North, executive director of external Indigenous relations at the University of Winnipeg. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Natural resources fuel election heat: Why photos sparked a backlash | 11 Apr 2025 | 00:14:16 | |
Natural resources are a hot topic this federal election — in part because of U.S. President Donald Trump’s shifting tariffs on Canadian imports. Oil and gas came up when Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre met with chiefs in Edmonton at an event hosted by the Indian Resource Council. Photos from the meeting sparked backlash, with some band members saying they didn’t support what appeared to be an endorsement. Our Truth and Politics panel joins host Creeson Agecoutay to weigh in. Jennifer Laewetz is CEO of Paskwâw Harbour Strategies, and Niigaan Sinclair is a columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Decision 2025: The push to mobilize the Indigenous vote | 17 Apr 2025 | 00:08:06 | |
We’re more than two weeks into the federal election campaign and efforts are underway to get out the Indigenous vote. The Assembly of First Nations says First Nations could be the deciding factor in 36 ridings across the country. But Indigenous issues have been absent from the political discourse. Will that keep voters from heading to the polls? For more, our Truth and Politics panel joins host Dennis Ward ahead of the Federal Leaders’ Debate. Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Harbour Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| The Pope’s death and legacy | 25 Apr 2025 | 00:16:02 | |
Pope Francis will be laid to rest this weekend, days after his death at the age of 87. The head of the Catholic Church visited Canada in 2022 to apologize for its role in the residential school system. His passing comes during the final stretch of a federal election campaign that has only recently begun to engage with Indigenous issues. Our Truth and Politics panel joins host Dennis Ward to discuss the Pope’s legacy and unpack what’s at stake for Indigenous voters this federal election. Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwaw Strategies, and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Carney forms government as political leaders fall - what this means for Indigenous Peoples | 02 May 2025 | 00:14:04 | |
The election is behind us and Mark Carney is now the elected prime minister of Canada with a slim minority. There are now questions about how long his government will last. Meanwhile, Jagmeet Singh resigned as leader of the NDP on election night after his party was decimated and he lost his own seat. The Conservatives increased their numbers, but Pierre Poilievre also lost his seat and the premier of Alberta is being accused of stoking separatism talk. Our Truth and Politics panel joins host Dennis Ward to weigh in. Jennifer Laewetz is the CEO of Paskwaw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair is a columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Separatism, sovereignty and a new pope | 09 May 2025 | 00:12:15 | |
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says she isn’t calling for Alberta to separate, but she’s moving ahead with legislation that would make it easier. First Nations leaders are calling her rhetoric insanity and an attack on their rights. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that King Charles will make a rare visit to open the 45th Parliament of Canada. And in a historic first, a pope from North America has been selected. Pope Leo XIV is from the United States. Our Truth and Politics panel joins host Dennis Ward to weigh in. Jennifer Laewetz is the CEO of Paskwaw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair is a columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Three Indigenous MPs join Carney’s cabinet - what does it mean for our communities? | 16 May 2025 | 00:17:51 | |
This week, Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled his new cabinet. Three Indigenous members of Parliament will be part of his inner circle. One of the most notable appointments is Mandy Gull-Masty, a former grand chief of the Grand Council of the Crees in Quebec. She becomes the first Indigenous person to lead Indigenous Services Canada. Our Truth and Politics panel is here, joining guest host Tiar Wheatle. Niigaan Sinclair is a columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press, and helping us out this week is Cassidy Caron, the former president of the Métis National Council and a principal with First Peoples Group. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| What do this week’s political moves mean for Indigenous families? | 23 May 2025 | 00:17:21 | |
Plenty of developments on the federal political scene this week. Former chief and now Member of Parliament Billy Morin has been appointed the Conservative opposition critic for Indigenous Services. The recently elected Liberal government says it won’t present a new budget until the fall. And lawyers for the federal government say they’re done negotiating child welfare reform with the Assembly of First Nations and the Caring Society. Here to break it all down is our Truth and Politics panel. Jennifer Laewetz is CEO of Paskwâw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair is a columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Can you be sued for accusing someone of being a pretendian? | 27 Jun 2025 | 00:16:04 | |
Can you be sued for saying someone isn't Indigenous? That's the title of recent report by Michelle Cyca for The Walrus, where she outlines two cases before the courts where someone accused of being a pretendian has sued their accuser. One of those court cases wrapped up this week. That is one of our topics on this week's Truth & Politics panel. Joining host Dennis Ward are Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Bill C-5 backlash: Chiefs warn of a long, hot summer | 20 Jun 2025 | 00:17:56 | |
The debate over fast-tracking legislation for so-called national interest projects is heating up. One First Nations leader is promising a long, hot summer if the federal government passes Bill C-5. Others are criticizing the national chief for her involvement in the so-called consultation process. Meanwhile, Ontario Premier Doug Ford is apologizing after saying he treats First Nations “like gold” but they keep coming to him “cap in hand.” That’s on this week’s Truth and Politics panel, along with a discussion on the importance of National Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Joining host Dennis Ward are Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Stolen land or not? Panel unpacks poll and pipeline politics | 13 Jun 2025 | 00:17:54 | |
A new poll conducted for the Association of Canadian Studies finds a majority of Canadians reject the idea that they live on stolen Indigenous land. Fifty-two per cent of those polled in May 2025 say they do not live on stolen land – that number climbs to 60 per cent in Alberta. Among youth, however, half of students surveyed believe they do live on stolen land. Also this week, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew floats the idea of a new pipeline to ship oil to Hudson’s Bay. Our Truth and Politics panel joins host Dennis Ward to weigh in. Jennifer Laewetz is CEO of Paskwâw Strategies, and Niigaan Sinclair is a columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Bill 5 passed: What it means for First Nations and Ontario’s economy | 06 Jun 2025 | 00:09:25 | |
The Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act – or Bill 5 – has now passed, despite concerns raised by First Nations. It's the latest in a wave of legislation provincial governments are pushing forward as jurisdictions across the country look to launch development projects in part, in response to the Trump-era tariffs. Our Truth and Politics panel joins host Dennis Ward to weigh in. Jennifer Laewetz is CEO of Paskwâw Strategies, and Niigaan Sinclair is a columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| The King’s visit to Canada and unprecedented wildfires in Manitoba | 30 May 2025 | 00:16:16 | |
King Charles made a whirlwind visit to Canada, delivering the speech from the throne and meeting with leaders of the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the Métis National Council. In Saskatchewan, Glenn McCallum has been re-elected as president of the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan. And in Manitoba, a state of emergency has been declared. The military has been called in to help evacuate communities as wildfires force thousands from their homes. Three First Nations in northern Saskatchewan are also facing evacuations. Here to break it all down is our Truth and Politics panel. Jennifer Laewetz is CEO of Paskwa Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair is a columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Should Minister of Accessibility be removed following American Sign Language remarks? | 04 Jul 2025 | 00:15:35 | |
The fallout continues after comments made by Manitoba’s minister of accessibility about an American Sign Language interpreter. Caught on camera at a graduation ceremony, Nahanni Fontaine said the interpreter was distracting and shouldn’t have been on stage. That’s on this week’s Truth and Politics panel, along with a look at Canada Day and the ongoing infighting at the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan. Joining host Dennis Ward are Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Blocked: journalists, ministers and accountability | 11 Jul 2025 | 00:14:30 | |
The controversy continues after Manitoba’s minister of accessibility blocked the entire APTN News editorial team on social media. The block followed reporting on Minister Nahanni Fontaine’s comments about an American Sign Language interpreter at a public event. In a statement from the minister on Wednesday, Nahanni Fontaine said, “immediately upon learning that journalists were blocked on my social media account, I directed staff to reverse this decision.” This week on Truth and Politics, we ask: is it appropriate for an elected official to block a media outlet? Joining host Dennis Ward are Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Bill C-5: path to prosperity or threat to sovereignty? | 18 Jul 2025 | 00:12:36 | |
The federal government’s controversial Bill C-5, the Building Canada Act, is now law. Pushed through in just a few weeks, the bill aims to fast-track development projects deemed in the national interest. But critics say it sidelines Indigenous rights and opens the door to environmental harm. Nine First Nations in Ontario have launched a legal challenge against the legislation. This week on Truth and Politics, we look at how First Nations leaders are responding. Some say the legislation is a threat, others see economic opportunity. Host Dennis Ward is joined by Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press and lawyer, professor and activist Pamela Palmater. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Bill C-5: Are First Nation rights coming second? | 25 Jul 2025 | 00:12:30 | |
A northern pipeline, improvements to the rail line connecting Hudson Bay to the Prairies, and expedited critical mineral mining are all on the table with the newly passed One Canadian Economy Act and Ontario's Bill 5. Great for Canada perhaps with U.S. tariffs on the horizon, but there’s always one big looming question when it comes to new infrastructure. This week on Truth and Politics, we ask that very question: how will this affect First Nations rights? Host Creeson Agecoutay is joined by Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press and Paskwâw Strategies CEO, Jennifer Laewetz. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Report raising alarms: Indigenous women and girls overrepresented in trafficking | 01 Aug 2025 | 00:17:07 | |
A new report released this week is highlighting the intersection between the disappearance of Indigenous women and human trafficking in Canada. According to the report by Thomson Reuters, despite being only 5 per cent of the population, Indigenous women and girls account for over 50 per cent of trafficking victims. While the data may not come as a surprise to Indigenous peoples, it is a cause for alarm. Also, this week we're discussing a new poll that finds most Canadians think the country is making progress on reconciliation. Joining host Dennis Ward are Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Hollow Water First Nation mourns after fatal stabbings | 05 Sep 2025 | 00:13:24 | |
At least two people are dead, including the suspect, after multiple stabbings in Hollow Water First Nation in Manitoba. The incident occurred in the early morning hours of September 4 and resulted in eight community members suffering from stab wounds. The tragic incident conjures up memories from the mass stabbing in James Smith Cree Nation in Saskatchewan, which happened on this very day three years ago. Also on this week's episode, some of the highlights from the Assembly of First Nations Annual General Assembly in Winnipeg. Joining host Dennis Ward are Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Drugs, alcohol and violence: Calls for a First Nations-wide state of emergency | 29 Aug 2025 | 00:16:29 | |
The impacts of drugs, alcohol and violence in our communities are often in the news. Next week, a resolution is coming forward at the Assembly of First Nations that calls for a First Nations-wide state of emergency in relation to the drug, alcohol and bootlegging crisis devastating First Nations families and communities across Canada. Tiar Wheatle is filling for host Dennis Ward this week, joined by Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Strategies and lawyer Leah Ballantyne. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Non-confidence votes, suspensions: Is it a tough time to be an Indigenous leader? | 21 Aug 2025 | 00:14:20 | |
Some First Nation leaders in southern Manitoba are calling for a summit on the leadership of their grand chief. This is the second time a non-confidence vote has been requested during Jerry Daniels’ leadership at the Southern Chiefs’ Organization. Other Indigenous political organizations and governments have also been in the news this week, dealing with questions around leadership. Joining host Dennis Ward are Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Is Canada failing First Nations during wildfire evacuations? | 15 Aug 2025 | 00:12:31 | |
The federal government says this wildfire season is already the second worst on record, with tens of thousands forced to flee, largely Indigenous. As smoke blankets parts of the Prairies and evacuation orders remain in place for 28 First Nations, we ask: is Canada handling wildfire evacuations and supports for First Nations the right way? Joining host Dennis Ward are Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| What is all impacted by the MMF not attending the PM and Métis leaders’ summit | 08 Aug 2025 | 00:12:49 | |
Métis leaders were in Ottawa on Thursday for a meeting with the prime minister and some of his cabinet over Bill C-5; however, the summit has been more notable for who isn't there. As we reported earlier, the Manitoba Métis Federation said they would not be going because the Métis National Council and Métis Nation of Ontario will be there. At the same time, Métis Nation British Columbia also backed out because they were only invited as online observers. Joining guest host Sav Jonsa are Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| The ongoing saga to reform the child welfare system | 25 Sep 2025 | 00:18:25 | |
It’s been a busy week with no end in sight as we head into the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. With that in mind, our Truth and Politics panel will weigh in on a range of stories this week, including child welfare reform, Orange Shirt Day, the FSIN audit and vandalism at the constituency offices of two Manitoba cabinet ministers. Joining host Dennis Ward on the Truth and Politics panel are Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Questions grow over FSIN audit and Jordan’s Principle spending | 18 Sep 2025 | 00:14:55 | |
Details are beginning to emerge about a forensic audit of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations, the political advocacy group that represents more than 70 First Nations in Saskatchewan. Indigenous Services Canada says it presented the findings to the FSIN on Sept. 11, with a public summary expected before the end of the month. So far, FSIN has declined to comment. Also on this week’s episode, a look at the internal confusion and fallout at Indigenous Services as the cost of Jordan’s Principle tops $2 billion and services face a crackdown. Joining host Dennis Ward on the Truth and Politics panel are Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| Indigenous Advisory Council: Who’s in, who’s out and the major projects unveiled | 11 Sep 2025 | 00:17:09 | |
After months of speculation, the Carney government has unveiled a list of major projects deemed to be in the national interest. An Indigenous advisory council has also been announced to guide the work of the new Major Projects Office and ensure equity ownership and meaningful participation for Indigenous Peoples. Joining guest host Tiar Wheatle on this on this week’s Truth and Politics panel is Jennifer Laewetz of Paskwâw Strategies and Winnipeg Free Press columnist Niigaan Sinclair. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||
| FSIN breaks silence on forensic audit findings – but does it address concerns? | 02 Oct 2025 | 00:12:37 | |
The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations in Saskatchewan has broken its silence on the forensic audit of its finances. Indigenous Services Canada and auditing firm KPMG found $34 million in questionable spending. A statement from the organization, which represents more than 70 First Nations in Saskatchewan, says it has faced unwarranted attacks in relation to the audit. For more, our Truth & Politics panel is here. Joining host Dennis Ward on the Truth and Politics panel are Jennifer Laewetz, CEO of Paskwâw Strategies and Niigaan Sinclair, columnist with the Winnipeg Free Press. • • • APTN National News, our stories told our way. Visit our website for more: https://aptnnews.ca Hear more APTN News podcasts: https://www.aptnnews.ca/podcasts/ | |||