In my role managing media relations for Chippewas of the Thames First Nation (Deshkan Ziibiing), I lead the development, editing, and dissemination of official press releases, statements, and media advisories. These communications are often time-sensitive and require precision, diplomacy, and cultural grounding to reflect the Nation’s position on national matters, intergovernmental relations, and community initiatives.
In response to the discovery at the former Marieval Residential School, I drafted and issued an official statement from COTTFN expressing solidarity with Cowessess First Nation and calling for federal and Church accountability under the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action 58–76.
Tone: Compassionate yet firm advocacy for justice and truth.
Coordination: Rapid approval process with Chief and Council to ensure release within 24 hours of national news coverage.
Outcome: Statement widely shared by regional and national Indigenous media outlets.
I developed COTTFN’s formal response to Pope Francis’s apology, contextualizing it within the historical Doctrine of Discovery and terra nullius doctrines. The release reframed the apology as an important but partial step toward reconciliation and called for concrete action and education on cultural genocide.
Integrated cultural and political framing relevant to Deshkan Ziibiing’s history.
Ensured accessibility and trauma sensitivity by including crisis line resources for Survivors.
Designed and branded the release for digital and print distribution under the Nation’s modernized visual identity.
I coordinated the media release and coverage for a funding announcement with Ontario’s Minister Tibollo, highlighting $1 million in provincial funding for crisis response infrastructure and a Tri-Council Declaration between Chippewas of the Thames, Oneida Nation of the Thames, and Munsee Delaware Nation.
Oversaw message alignment between three leadership offices.
Drafted the public-facing release, talking points, and event summary.
Supported media inquiries and on-site communications logistics.
This body of work demonstrates capacity to craft impactful and culturally informed communications under high-pressure circumstances. It reflects strong editorial judgment, cross-departmental collaboration, and the ability to convey complex issues with clarity and respect—ensuring the Nation’s voice is represented accurately and consistently in public discourse.
