Oh My Redwing, Take Me Softly: Unveiling Indigenous Voices from Saskatchewan

The literary world has long been dominated by the voices of the colonizers, but it's time to give way to the stories and experiences of the original inhabitants of this land. 'Kisiskâciwan: Indigenous Voices from Where the River Flows Swiftly' is a poignant collection of writings that brings forth the voices of Saskatchewan's indigenous communities. Edited by Jesse Rae Archibald-Barber, this book is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and resilience of the Native peoples who have called this land home for centuries.

The publication features a diverse range of writers, including Louise Bernice Halfe, who weaves together the stories of her ancestors in 'Blue Marrow'. Her words are a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and honoring those whose voices have been lost too soon. The book also includes contributions from Charles Pratt, James Settee, and Saukamappee (Young Man), among others.

The title of this article, 'Oh My Redwing, Take Me Softly', is a nod to the Cree phrase 'Saukamappee' or 'Young Man', which is used as a pen name by one of the contributing writers. This phrase resonates deeply with the themes of identity, culture, and belonging that run throughout this collection.

The stories within these pages are not just about the struggles and hardships faced by indigenous peoples; they are also about hope, resilience, and the enduring power of community. As we read through these words, we are reminded of the importance of listening to the voices that have been silenced for far too long. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada and Creative Saskatchewan's Creative Industries Production Grant Program, which made this publication possible.

'Kisiskâciwan: Indigenous Voices from Where the River Flows Swiftly' is a testament to the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and honoring those whose voices have been lost too soon. As we read through these pages, we are reminded that there is still much work to be done to amplify the voices of indigenous peoples and to create a more just and equitable society.

In conclusion, this collection of writings is a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to and amplifying indigenous voices. It is a testament to the resilience and cultural heritage of Saskatchewan's indigenous communities, and it serves as a call to action for all of us to work towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

Oh my redwing take me softly