In June, the GECIPQ is marking the National Indigenous History Month by sharing some of Xavier Watso’s insights. He is an Abenaki host, columnist, and actor who frequently highlights Indigenous issues and realities on his platforms. 💬
As part of our “Indigenous Leaders” series, the GECIPQ explores different perspectives on economic reconciliation. Xavier Watso shares his thoughts with us and helps us understand reconciliation in a different way: less from a corporate, governmental, and institutional side, but more from the social, human, and cultural side.
We asked him: Do you feel that your audience has evolved in its understanding of Indigenous issues? Have the conversations changed? 🤔
Observation 1 : A growing curiosity from the general public
Understanding each other starts with dialogue and conversation
I do see a positive shift when it comes to Indigenous issues. Today, curiosity feels healthier and more engaged. People want to take the conversation to the next level—they want to understand contemporary Indigenous realities, political issues, and identity struggles. It’s a growing interest that I sense both on an individual and a collective level.
Observation 2 : A greater openness to learn and listen
Less defensiveness, more awareness
In the past, bringing up Indigenous issues often triggered defensive reactions—I was listened to with a kind of distance. Now, I feel people are more open and genuinely listening. Real conversations are happening in society. Most people take the time to reflect, ask questions. They understand that learning is a shared journey, and that it starts with listening, humility, empathy, and openness.
Observation 3 : A developing sense of mutual respect
Moving from a top-down gaze to a dialogue of equals
I can feel a shift toward more balanced relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. It’s no longer “them” and “us”— we’re moving toward more respectful and reciprocal conversations. This respect shows up in collaborations, sharing, comments, and interactions, both online and in the real world. There’s still a lot of work to be done, but seeing how far we’ve come gives me confidence that we’re on the right path.
