12/23/2025
Over the past few days there has been a lot of discussion on the "Pretendian/Descendian" debate and the comments made by Fiona Moar and her "investigation" of actress Lily Gladstone.
I just recently seen an announcement made by Indigenous Projects & Events that they will be announcing a new MC for the upcoming IndigiRise event in January, which had to be a difficult decision for them to make. I take no joy in seeing a fellow Indigenous woman lose an opportunity, but I do believe it was the right decision to make for the spirit of the event.
As someone new to the social media world and wanting to create something that empowers and uplifts our Indigenous woman, Warrior Ikwe – I want to make sure that the foundation of what I am trying to build is built on protecting our people and ensuring our spaces remain safe for all of our sisters to rise. So, when there is an event designed for Indigenous woman to pitch their dreams and livelihood, the environment has to be one of absolute support.
When we use colonial tools like blood quantum or make statements insinuating someone is “ not-indigenous enough” to tear each other down, we are doing the work of the colonizer for them.
I am sharing this because I was one of the many people she chose to block after I pushed back on one of her statements that reinforced the idea that the use of ones Indigeneity is a handout for the unskilled.
That being said, I am not here to return fire with fire. As an Indigenous woman I recognize that lateral violence often stems from the deep-seated trauma many of us carry. I don’t wish Fiona any negativity, I wish her healing. We can hold someone accountable for their words and the harm they have caused without wishing for their downfall.
I wholeheartedly believe that apart of healing our generational trauma, is by standing in our power and reclaiming our right to be successful, to be visible and to be professional without being told we are trying to make bank on our identity, which is why I felt compelled to post my comment on Fiona's post. I am glad to see this event move forward with a focus on unity and excellence.
Let’s keep opening doors for each other rather than locking them!!
