Connecting in isolation: Indigenous people create, find and share community online

With the government urging Canadians to practice social distancing to help stop the spread of COVID-19, many of us are now isolated from friends, family and coworkers. 

Indigenous people are finding new ways to stay connected, often with the help of social media.

Normally this time of year, Pahan Tse San Win would be preparing for spring ceremonies. But because of the COVID-19 pandemic, she's holding sharing and singing circles online using Zoom, a video conferencing program. 

Winnipeg author David A. Robertson had a pretty full calendar this month, but had to cancel many of his plans after the outbreak of COVID-19. In his time at home, he's found a new way to connect with his audience, by reading his books for kids live on social media. 

As many workforces turn to Zoom and Google Hangouts to meet virtually, a research team at Concordia University is using personalized avatars to meet in a virtual world called Second Life. Skawennati is one of the founders of AbTeC, she explains how her team is adjusting to working in isolation.  

With powwow season just around the corner, First Nation performers and vendors are coming to terms with the fact that many powwows will be cancelled. Dan Simonds, founder of Wampum Wear, launched the Social Distance Powwow Facebook group as a space for people to share videos of themselves dancing, singing. and selling art. 

Editor-in-Grand-Chief Tim Fontaine from the satirical site Walking Eagle News continues to bring the funny, even while in isolation. He'll explain what inspired the story: "Anishinaabe woman in self-isolation beads entire apartment."

Beaders are turning to the internet to share their love of the craft with those who've always wanted to learn. Amber Sandy talks about the live beading events she launched on Instagram.

This week's playlist

Christa Couture - Water to Sail (Safe Harbour)
William Prince - The Lighthouse
Snotty Nose Rez Kids - Boujee Natives