A new Indigenous media company is looking to advance Indigenous storytelling across the country.
The Indigenous Media Association of Canada (IMAC) was formally incorporated on January 6.
IMAC was formed by five women who are veteran media professionals. The goal of the organization is, according to a media release, is to ensure “safe, culturally supported spaces for truth-tellers, create a stronger and more inclusive media ecosystem, and amplify Indigenous voices in national and international dialogues.”
The organization says they will achieve this by providing representation at the federal level, advocating for the implementation of UNDRIP Article 16, and pushing for accurate and contextual coverage of Indigenous communities by mainstream media.
“As a collective, we want to make certain there will always be space for Indigenous stories told by Indigenous people for years to come,” said Kerry Benjoe, IMAC interim president.
Benjoe comes into the role with years of experience in the media landscape as she was the first Indigenous storyteller for CBC Saskatchewan, and currently serves as editor for EFN Media.
“The only way this can happen is if we have an equal seat at the table when decisions are made regarding policy, funding, and special projects,” Benjoe Added.
IMAC believes storytelling is an inherent right of Indigenous people and the organization says they will make sure Indigenous communities can speak on behalf of themselves.
An interview with MBC News and Kerry Benjoe is available here.
(Top Photo – IMAC Interim President Kerry Benjoe)