How can Indigenous communities maintain cultural identity while navigating modernity? Is it possible to blend traditional Indigenous governance with democratic principles to create a more just society?

Today’s guest is Dr. David Newhouse, an influential Indigenous scholar and former director of the Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies at Trent University. David, who is Onondaga, has dedicated his career to advancing Indigenous education, governance, and economic development. His research explores how Indigenous modernity can coexist with Western systems, offering a unique approach to rebuilding communities through both traditional knowledge and contemporary frameworks.

In this episode, we dive deep into Dr. Newhouse’s pioneering work on Indigenous democracy—a governance system that fuses traditional Indigenous values with democratic practices. We explore how Indigenous communities are reclaiming autonomy after centuries of colonization and the challenges they face in preserving cultural identity within a wider society. Dr. Newhouse shares his insights on economic development in Indigenous communities, from fishing economies to gaming, and how these systems can be leveraged to reduce inequality and foster collective wealth. We also discuss how Indigenous perspectives on modernity offer alternative ways of living that prioritize community, sustainability, and the teachings of elders. This conversation emphasizes the significance of cultural resurgence in the face of historical assimilation and the vital role of Indigenous knowledge in shaping a more equitable future.