Misinformation and disinformation about Indigenous people remain a persistent problem in Canada – and globally. Myths and stereotypes about Indigenous people continue to spread on and offline, perpetuating harm.  The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a “perfect storm of disinformation” for Indigenous people in Brazil, undermining vaccine campaigns and much-needed aid during the health crisis. In recent years, disinformation campaigns have also perpetuated false information about health and environmental risks in the Amazon. But Indigenous people are pushing back, combating disinformation.  A network of dozens of Indigenous communicators in the Rio Negro region of Brazil, for example, successfully used the free messaging service WhatsApp and local radio to combat disinformation about their communities and the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccines. 

Storytelling remains a vital part of Indigenous communities. Stories – viewed by many as a gift from the Creator – pass on traditions, history and culture. 

In addition to conveying knowledge, storytelling also helps “sustain communities, validates experiences…, expresses experiences of Indigenous peoples, and nurtures relationships and the sharing of knowledge.”

Websites and Online Magazines

• Reporting in Indigenous Communities: Reporter's Checklist

Articles and Books

• Decolonizing journalism: a guide to reporting in Indigenous communities