Aboriginal Cultural Capital Creation and Radio Production in Urban Ontario

Abstract

This paper addresses the production of local subjects through radio production, challenging the common assumption of a straightforward conceptual link between de-traditionalization and media globalization. It examines the directions several urban Aboriginal cultural producers in Canada are pursuing to confer meaning on their futures, questioning whether Native modernities are necessarily replacing traditions. Focusing on several First Nations radio shows issuing from university radio station facilities in London and Toronto, Ontario, the paper offers insights into the ways Native radio producers are culturally mediating neo-traditional (new-old) versions of Aboriginality over the airwaves. The article highlights the interdependence of Aboriginal public spheres, radio mediation, and popular sovereignty.Résumé : Cet article s’addresse aux rapports entre le processus de localisation, l’imperialisme culturelle et à la déclin de tradition. Je suggère que bien que ce dernier soient invoqués habituellement dans le discours de la globalization des médias, la combinaison n’est pas inévitable. Cet essai s’interroge les manifestations de la modernité et de la tradionalisme uniques qu’on se trouve chez les peuples autochtones. On se régle la mise au point sur les radiodiffuseurs Première Nations qui diffusent leurs émissions par l’intermédiaire des stations universitaires á London et Toronto, Ontario. Étudier ces modes de modernité situées offrent à parvenir à comprendre comment une sous-culture des autochtones s’interposent les identités neo-traditionnelles en émettrant de la programmation qui s’éleve la solidarité parmi les communautés indigènes urbanes. L’article souligne l’interdépendance entre la sphère publique des peuples Première Nations, la médiation radiophonique, et la souveraineté populaire.

Tlowitsis Re-Imagined

“…In conclusion, Buddle (2005) asks whether First Nations are in danger of being further influenced and assimilated through the appropriation of Western technologies. Does this possibility mean that PV and related processes might actually counter nation building?…”

“…In reconciliation of these varying perspectives, participatory video projects, whether product or process orientated or both, are always propelled by, determined and dependent on the social circumstances of its participants (Buddle, 2005). Though there might be a body of fundamental concepts which are intrinsic and relevant to all PV projects, the goals and processes of these projects will always be particular to the needs and desires of the groups involved.…”