arry Gottfriedson, of Okanagan, Shuswap and Cree descent, is an author and educator who travels extensively. His work has appeared in numerous anthologies, and he recently collaborated on the book In Honour of Our Grandmothers, published by Theytus Books.
cancon
is language powerful enough for you to communicate your emotions and history?
Garry Gottfriedson
Although language is the primary means of communication, it is only one means of expression. When we think and speak in English, then we are transferring worldview from that perspective; but if I were to communicate to you in my Mother-tongue, then I would be transmitting my perspective from there. Emotions are responses that reflect an action that is affecting my space. History are events or actions that are worth keeping record of. Thus, language is a powerful means of to communicate both, but not the only one.
cancon
you've been very honest about contemprary problems such as corruption within band leadership- what problems has this caused for you?
Garry Gottfriedson
The contemporary problems that we face within Band Leadership are the results of government policy. Those government policies restrict Indians in every way. Basic existence is strictly regulated and the problems are numerous.
cancon
besides corruption, what problems do today's reserves still face?
Garry Gottfriedson
Access to basic human needs like, employment, education, health....
cancon
there are still so many accounts of residential school abuses coming forward- how much progress has been made in the healing process?
Garry Gottfriedson
Again, Indians are trapped by the small government hand-outs. The healing will take more than money to aid the process. Very little progess is being made compared to the hundred of years of abuse that occurred.
cancon
word association:
chief: past & future = leader; present = dictator
education: transmitting information
land: soul, language, & home
indian: past = connected to land; present = struggling; future = astute
truth: the soul's integrity
ancestors: we are one and the same
cancon
how do you feel about self-government?
Garry Gottfriedson
Indians aren't ready for self-government. We need more culturally astute people, people who are educated in all aspects of mainstream living as well as Indian life.
cancon
recent events like the makah whale hunt remind us how strong the need for tradition is in culture, and how many non-natives see this hunt as being unecessary and brutal. Can we bridge this gap of understanding?
Garry Gottfriedson
Only after Indians have a clear understanding of themselves as Indians, and after mainstream Canada clears their conscience in regards to the hundreds of injustices of old policies that are still in existence today.
cancon
what is the role of poetry to you?
Garry Gottfriedson
Poetry one of my healing paths. It is a glimpse of my past, present and future.
cancon
you're now a grandpa- how has this changed your views on life or your goals?
Garry Gottfriedson
Yes, since I am now a grandfather, I see the need to work strongly with my people to understand themselves, I do this through language.
cancon
what motivates you?
Garry Gottfriedson
The realization that hope does exist. It comes in many ways. You are an example of that. The students that I teach are examples. My family. My culture. and my language.
cancon
what is something you've always wanted to be asked?
Garry Gottfriedson
I've never thought about this question, but it will be in my mind.
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