Ann Paul finds joy in telling Indigenous stories

Ann Paul, a Wolastoqey woman who brings an Indigenous lens to stories from First Nations communities across New Brunswick, was invited to share her perspective in the inaugural edition of all in. This new, monthly CBC newsletter features stories and ideas that reflect all the ways we're different on the East Coast.

Ann Paul is all in

I always knew there would be a time when it would be my turn to tell our stories, I just didn't know when. I was lucky enough to grow up with Maggie Paul as my mother. From her, I learned what others call The Traditional Way, which really is our Indigenous way of life. To wake up every morning and give thanks to the Creator for the day I was given. To look for the positive in every situation and make happiness a choice. Something you always have to work on.

My name is "Monoqan," meaning rainbow, or Ann Paul. I am Wolostoqey, mother, daughter, grandmother, artist, photographer, seamstress, singer, writer and storyteller.

Last fall, I had a plan laid out in my head: I would go from having a paycheck every week to looking for stories. On Sept. 9, 2022, I submitted a resignation letter to my employer of almost 17 years with no hesitation.

On Sept. 17, I did what I called my "test story" about the powwow at Pilick First Nation. Powwows were banned by the Canadian government under the Indian Act until 1951. Now, many First Nations hold powwows, and they're open to everyone. I was so nervous because covering a powwow was not something I'd ever done before, and I hoped I did well so I could do it all the time. I quickly realized this is it, this is me, something that brings me joy. I know that telling our stories is what I was meant to do. CBC picked up that powwow story, and I was on my way.

My last day at work was Sept. 30, 2022. I thought, this is it! I am so ALL IN for whatever the future holds, no turning back. I had never been so excited to get something started. 

Since then, stories have found me. People message to tell me what is going on in their community and that I should be there, to participate, witness, document.

My favourite story is about the 8th Annual Chief Harold Sappier Memorial Elementary School Moose Hunt, a four-day event where moose that are harvested are shared amongst the Elders in the community. I have never been hunting for moose before ... ever!

I went with Brenna Nash, who has been hunting since she was a young girl, her daughter Jennifer, and partner Trevor Harrison. Each day, I was up way before dawn ready to meet the others, who shared so much of their knowledge of hunting with me. That weekend gave me the best feeling ever. Connecting with my community, learning and being able to share with everyone our stories was an absolute honour.

The most recent story that left a huge imprint of togetherness and community was the first ever New Year's Eve powwow organized by younger adults and volunteers in Sitansisk, St. Mary's First Nation. Even now, I close my eyes and still see all the smiles. People dancing, talking, laughing and celebrating with each other. I stood watching four generations of family with tears of joy in my eyes and in my heart. This kind of energy would never have been shared to a wider audience had I not had my camera on. I want the world to see these moments of us.

We are here, we have been here and we will always be here! These are our stories. 

Read more through Ann's Eye here.

Ann's Picks

• Watch: How Sitansisk organizers worked to put on one of the biggest powwows in recent memory
• Read: New Atlantic Ballet Indigenous director says collaboration, not tokenism, key to new role

Get to know Ann

What is your motto?
Wish it...Dream it...Do it!

What is your favourite wintertime/summertime activity on the East Coast?
Riding my Harley on the back roads, especially in the fall.

What is your greatest extravagance?
Andy, otherwise known as my Harley Road King.

What is your most marked characteristic? 
My smile.

Can you share a recent event or experience that gives you hope for positive change? 
The St. Mary's First Nation New Year's Eve powwow where I saw four generations carrying on our ways.