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Eddy Robinson Responsible Allyship + Urban Indigeneity + Anishinaabe Knowledge Keeper
The Beat of a Different Drum
Featured in National Geographic’s “A Story of God with Morgan Freeman” and CBC’s “Moccasins & Concrete” documentary, Eddy Robinson is an inspirational educator, performer, speaker, and changemaker. He has performed with Serena Ryder, Andrea Menard, Plex, among many others. Eddy enlightens with passionate personal narratives that carry a depth of insight to elevating methods of Truth and Reconciliation, Indigenous culture and ways of knowing.
Born to the Missanabie Cree First Nation, but raised in Toronto, Eddy Robinson endured many hardships in his youth, the result of intergenerational trauma and the harm inflicted upon residential school survivors and their descendants. Eddy’s fate changed during these early years when he was introduced to the power of the Dewegun (D-WAY-GUN, which means “drum”) and a traditional Anishinaabe Vision Quest/Fasting held at “Dreamer’s Rock” on Manitoulin Island. These powerful experiences built new pathways for Eddy to journey towards reconnecting to his Indigenous identity and leaving behind legacies of abuse.
Since then, Eddy has worked and advocated for many Indigenous communities locally, provincially and nationally. A visionary and active leader, Eddy sees the crucial value of trust, communication, and education in building mutually respectful relationships and culturally safe environments. With his messages of change and resurgence, he has traveled throughout North America as a noted Indigenous artist, teacher, musician, educator, facilitator, trainer, writer, consultant and speaker. Eddy has also presented to numerous First Nations, Indigenous communities, local district school boards, colleges, universities, corporate institutions as well as several Indigenous and non-Indigenous non-profit organizations.
With a Masters in Education and a devotion to elevating Canada’s collective consciousness, Eddy is shifting the world’s understanding of reconciliation, allyship, and Indigenous culture: “Reconciliation is not only a personal journey of forgiveness of self and others in support of past generations, but is very much about being mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually part of a legacy of resurgence.”
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Journey of an Indigenous Student: Finding Strength in the Narrative
In this presentation, Eddy shares stories of his struggles with his Indigenous identity and the comfort of safe spaces created by allies he met throughout his journey. Reflecting on these experiences in colonial environments, overcoming their limitations, and his career in Indigenous education, Eddy inspires audiences to reconsider space and self. Through sharing Indigenous ways of knowing through an urban lens, Eddy grounds his approach to the Indigenous methodology of locating one’s self in order to equip educators, mentors, and leaders with safe and ethical practices for inclusion.
Join Eddy in this powerful session to discover:- Safe practices for engaging Indigenous ways of knowing within professional and educational environments
- The importance of understanding self in the foundation of ethical and inclusive systems
- The spiritual connections all individuals have to the universe and creation
Becoming an Indigenous Ally: Building Relationships through Diversity and Inclusivity
As the world continues to wake up to the impact of colonization, the need for responsible allyship has never been more critical. Through grounding audiences with an understanding of Indigenous experience in Canada, Eddy encourages individuals to respond to the call for Truth and Reconciliation in their everyday lives. Eddy’s invaluable knowledge of diversity and inclusion practices will give audiences the tools to build mutually respectful relationships with Indigenous communities so we can move forward together.
Eddy will share:- Culturally safe methodologies of inclusivity
- The importance of learning Indigenous ways of knowing and seeing forward
- Meaningful and respectful ways for allies to foster and form relationships with Indigenous communities
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Cultural Awareness: Understanding and Integrating Indigenous Ways of Knowing Into Your Everyday Life
This workshop will discuss Indigenous methodologies and how it translates to life today for students, professionals and individuals. Participants are safe to ask how we can, as a society, engage Indigenous Ways of Knowing (culture) within professional and educational environments. There will also be ample opportunity to discuss the current Indigenous presence within society and the distinct differences between, identity (First Nations, Métis and Inuit), culture, language, location, and populations.
Stereotypes and Misconceptions: A Reflective Analysis of the Objectified Image of Indigenous People in North America
In this workshop the misrepresentation of Aboriginal/Indigenous/Native American people in Hollywood films, mainstream society, sport teams, mascots, objectified imagery, literature, and media will be discussed in the context of anti-oppression. The appropriation of Indigenous culture and objectification of Indigenous people is still continuously within media and the mainstream culture of North America.
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“Eddy’s life was completely changed by a vision of the divine. In his case it was the Great Spirit a manifestation of his peoples’ connection to the land…Eddy became a guide for the First Nations People spreading the transformative power of the Vision Quest...But when someone like Saint Bernadette, Charles Mulli, or Eddy Robinson have the courage to share their vision, it can alter the course of many lives, even change the world.”
-Morgan Freeman, National Geographic’s “The Story of God”
"Eddy Robinson is one of our country’s rising Indigenous stars for a reason. An extraordinary storyteller, an engaging and charismatic speaker, a beautiful and powerful singer and drummer, Robinson weaves the different strands of a contemporary Indigenous man, father, teacher and artist to present some of the most engaging talks and workshops I’ve encountered. Eddy Robinson’s own story is the stuff of novels, and for such a young man, he’s already lived a very big life. His words have the ability to teach, to create dialogue, to beg questions, to incite discussion, and certainly to help begin healing as we join together as Canadians on our walk to reconciliation. I can’t sing Eddy Robinson’s praises highly enough."
- Joseph Boyden
"Eddy Robinson is a powerful and provocative speaker. His winning combination of historical and cultural knowledge, along with a leader’s vision of the future can help all Canadians gain new insights and ideas on how to reconcile and build together."
- Mark Bowden, TRUTHPLANE Inc.
"I had the privilege of meeting Eddy Robinson at an Indigenous Awareness presentation to TD employees and Senior Managers. Since then I have heard him speak on a number of occasions. Eddy is an energetic speaker. He is passionate about bridging the gap between Indigenous and Non Indigenous people. He possesses the rare ability to stimulate audience participation in a nonthreatening environment. As a facilitator and relationship builder, he can navigate through complex discussions with positive and successful outcomes, even when the topics evoke passionate responses from his audience. Eddy speaks from the heart and draws from his knowledge and real life experiences. He shares his knowledge through stories, song and visual symbolism. Thank You Eddy, for inspiring positive change and bridging the gap between Indigenous and Non Indigenous People."
- Angelo Torchia, Prairies & Territories TD Commercial Banking
"Eddy's discussion about Indigenous Ways of Knowing through an Urban Lens was the perfect connection to our N'Wiwiijnookimin- Early Years Collaborative Inquiry. Educators were provided the opportunity to ask questions and have interactive discussions regarding the topic. Eddy also had lunch with the participants afterwards which allowed for candid conversations in smaller groups. Eddy is committed to his work and sharing his story in way that supports Educators in their work. He will also work adjust his presentation to meet the needs of your work. Eddy- a sincere thanks for spending your day with York Region District School Board! We look forward to seeing you at Quest 2016."
- Pamala Agawa, Curriculum Coordinator
"Eddy has presented for educators in Peel District School Board many times. Each presentation is engaging, informative, and educational, and participants always provide positive feedback afterwards. Eddy's presentations provide a balance between Indigenous history in Canada and Indigeneity in contemporary Canada too. His presentations highlight historical injustices, and offer multiple pathways toward reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Canada. All school boards can benefit from Eddy's knowledge and insight, and we look forward to having him in Peel again!"
- Melissa Wilson, MA, OCT
"Eddy Robinson is truly an inspirational member of the community. Through song, stories and discussions he creates a safe environment conducive for learning and sharing with all participants. His in-depth and extensive knowledge on indigenous culture and indigenous ways of knowing really helped my artist team understand the many layers of decolonization and how they can be involved in the process. I would highly recommend Eddy Robinson for any event you might be hosting where he can share his talents, insights and timeless wisdom."
- Matthew Jones aka Testament, Director of National Programs, UNITY Charity
"Eddy Robinson brings his experience into the room when he presents. He speaks from the heart. His is a voice to move us all toward respectful relations with one another."
- Celia Haig-Brown, York University
"I have had the great pleasure of working with Eddy on many occasions over the past few years. A skilled and effective speaker, his message is delivered with both purpose and humour, incorporating personal experiences, historical elements and global perspectives. A natural educator, he is able to create a comfortable space for discussion and a heightened level of audience engagement. I would highly recommend Eddy for your next event."
- Sherri Gray Senior Manager, TD Bank Group
"Eddy Robinson is a fearless speaker who walks his talk! He leads with a level of knowledge and optimism that is felt by everyone in his presence. Behind his humble and sincere energy is a powerful change maker who leaves audiences inspired. Eddy shares his story with an honesty that is critical to our self-awareness and responsiveness to the work we are called upon to do."
- Reagan Kennedy, Art Gallery of Mississauga
"We have worked with Eddy Robinson on several events and have found him to be professional and prompt in the planning stages and engaging and inspirational in execution. Our guests and staff have learned so much from Eddy with regards to Anishinaabe traditions and our challenging history as Canadians. He doesn’t shy away from difficult concepts and issues, but is able to engage audiences with the information in such a way as to inspire change and create allies in the community. I learn something new every time I hear him speak and love watching others walk away inspired by his presentations."
- Brenna Bartley, Educational Programming Conservation Halton
"Eddy Robinson's workshops authentically engage teachers in reimagining Canadian history. Eddy provides quality programing for our students and staff that strip away constructed stories of First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples, while engaging the learner with appropriate pedagogy and methodology that breaks down systemic and oppressive structures. Eddy has been fundamental in working with us to achieve our goals of creating equitable and inclusive programing for our students and staff. With a focus on Indigenous ways of knowing he uses his lived experiences to teach the historical narrative of Canada’s Indigenous communities. After attending sessions teachers leave with a deeper understanding of tradition, culture, segregation, assimilation and integration. Eddy is a prophetic voice that is desperately needed in our schools to build awareness, allyship and truth."
- Joanna Newton
"Eddy Robinson’s ability to speak with such passion and clarity while focusing on the importance of relationship when discussing the complex issues that face Indigenous Communities in “Canada” is powerful. Through sharing stories, facts and theory on the impacts of historic trauma from the colonial process and how existing forms of oppression affect Indigenous Communities calls people into the conversation in compassionate and influential ways. This act of calling people in allows for the audience to think about change as systemic, and a shared responsibility. "
- Hannah Batten, Wilfrid Laurier University
“Eddy Robinson is a gifted story-teller, an engaging workshop facilitator and an inspiring Keynote speaker. His captivating ability to share his cultural knowledge and history with a widely diverse audience, from a place of authenticity and inherent wisdom, allows for greater understanding and impactful learning that is instrumental in inspiring positive change in attitudes, individually and collectively.”
- Roz Espin, Harmony Movement
"I've worked with Eddy Robinson many times over the past ten years and each experience gets better.”
- Jennifer Podemski, Redcloud Studios Inc.
"I invited Eddy to speak to a group of indigenous and non-indigenous college students about music, the drum, and how technology can be used to pass on culture. Eddy's talk had my generally chatty group silently captivated from start to finish, and afterward he was surrounded by my students who had many questions. Beyond having a wealth of knowledge to draw from, Eddy backs that up with his depth of personal experiences that add a personal touch to the histories and teachings he shares. Though the topics he explores are serious, he interweaves these with humour and song, and these elements drew my students in immediately. Eddy's talk was a real gift, and I hope to invite him back every year."
- Kerry Potts, Humber College
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Highlights / Awards
Wabnode Institute-Cambrian College, Elizabeth Osawamich Memorial Scholarship for Ojibway Language, Sudbury, ON
Morningstar River, 2007
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Clients
- Anisinaabe Teachings Workshop, Crawford Lake Conservation Area, Milton, ON
- Art Gallery of Mississauga, ON
- Artist in Education Webinar - Arts Council, Toronto, ON
- Atlantic Native Teachers Education Conference, Fredericton, NB
- Avondale Schools, North York, ON
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Ottawa, ON
- Centre for Indigenous Theatre, Toronto, ON
- Conservation Officers Ontario, Crawford Lake Conservation Area, Milton, On
- Dufferin Peel Catholic District School Board (DPCDSB) Peel, ON
- Erindale Secondary, Toronto, ON
- Greater Victoria School District, Victoria, BC
- Harbourfront Centre, Toronto, ON
- Harmony Movement Social Change Makers Awards Gala, Toronto, ON
- Harmony Movement, Crawford Lake Conservation Area, Milton, ON
- Heart Lake Secondary, Toronto, ON
- Indigenous Student Services, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, ON
- Indspire’s National Gathering for Indigenous Education, Calgary, AB
- Kenjgewin Teg Educational Institute, Manitoulin, ON
- Liberal Studies Students, Humber College, Toronto, ON
- Memorial University, St. John’s, NFLD
- Milton District High School, Milton ON
- Nin Os Kom Tin, Fairy Lake, Newmarket, ON
- Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies (OACAS), Irondale, ON
- Ontario Native Education Counselling Association Conference, ON
- Pan Am Aboriginal Pavilion, Fort York, Toronto, ON
- Peel District School Board, Mississauga, ON
Speaker Categories:
Master of Ceremonies and Facilitators Authors and Storytellers Cultural Advisors Dancers Indigenous Ceremonies Leadership and Mentorship Mental Health Motivation Spirituality Indigenous Awareness and DiversityBorn to the Missanabie Cree First Nation, but raised in Toronto, Eddy Robinson endured many hardships in his youth, the result of intergenerational trauma and the harm inflicted upon residential school survivors and their descendants. Eddy’s fate changed during these early years when he was introduced to the power of the Dewegun (D-WAY-GUN, which means “drum”) and a traditional Anishinaabe Vision Quest/Fasting held at “Dreamer’s Rock” on Manitoulin Island. These powerful experiences built new pathways for Eddy to journey towards reconnecting to his Indigenous identity and leaving behind legacies of abuse.
Since then, Eddy has worked and advocated for many Indigenous communities locally, provincially and nationally. A visionary and active leader, Eddy sees the crucial value of trust, communication, and education in building mutually respectful relationships and culturally safe environments. With his messages of change and resurgence, he has traveled throughout North America as a noted Indigenous artist, teacher, musician, educator, facilitator, trainer, writer, consultant and speaker. Eddy has also presented to numerous First Nations, Indigenous communities, local district school boards, colleges, universities, corporate institutions as well as several Indigenous and non-Indigenous non-profit organizations.
With a Masters in Education and a devotion to elevating Canada’s collective consciousness, Eddy is shifting the world’s understanding of reconciliation, allyship, and Indigenous culture: “Reconciliation is not only a personal journey of forgiveness of self and others in support of past generations, but is very much about being mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually part of a legacy of resurgence.”
Speaker Summary
Location: Canada
Language: English
Website: Click Here
Categories
Master of Ceremonies and Facilitators Authors and Storytellers Cultural Advisors Dancers Indigenous Ceremonies Leadership and Mentorship Mental Health Motivation Spirituality Indigenous Awareness and DiversityWhat People Say
"
“Eddy’s life was completely changed by a vision of the divine. In his case it was the Great Spirit a manifestation of his peoples’ connection to the land…Eddy became a guide for the First Nations People spreading the transformative power of the Vision Quest...But when someone like Saint Bernadette, Charles Mulli, or Eddy Robinson have the courage to share their vision, it can alter the course of many lives, even change the world.”
-Morgan Freeman, National Geographic’s “The Story of God”
"Eddy Robinson is one of our country’s rising Indigenous stars for a reason. An extraordinary storyteller, an engaging and charismatic speaker, a beautiful and powerful singer and drummer, Robinson weaves the different strands of a contemporary Indigenous man, father, teacher and artist to present some of the most engaging talks and workshops I’ve encountered. Eddy Robinson’s own story is the stuff of novels, and for such a young man, he’s already lived a very big life. His words have the ability to teach, to create dialogue, to beg questions, to incite discussion, and certainly to help begin healing as we join together as Canadians on our walk to reconciliation. I can’t sing Eddy Robinson’s praises highly enough."
- Joseph Boyden
"Eddy Robinson is a powerful and provocative speaker. His winning combination of historical and cultural knowledge, along with a leader’s vision of the future can help all Canadians gain new insights and ideas on how to reconcile and build together."
- Mark Bowden, TRUTHPLANE Inc.
"I had the privilege of meeting Eddy Robinson at an Indigenous Awareness presentation to TD employees and Senior Managers. Since then I have heard him speak on a number of occasions. Eddy is an energetic speaker. He is passionate about bridging the gap between Indigenous and Non Indigenous people. He possesses the rare ability to stimulate audience participation in a nonthreatening environment. As a facilitator and relationship builder, he can navigate through complex discussions with positive and successful outcomes, even when the topics evoke passionate responses from his audience. Eddy speaks from the heart and draws from his knowledge and real life experiences. He shares his knowledge through stories, song and visual symbolism. Thank You Eddy, for inspiring positive change and bridging the gap between Indigenous and Non Indigenous People."
- Angelo Torchia, Prairies & Territories TD Commercial Banking
"Eddy's discussion about Indigenous Ways of Knowing through an Urban Lens was the perfect connection to our N'Wiwiijnookimin- Early Years Collaborative Inquiry. Educators were provided the opportunity to ask questions and have interactive discussions regarding the topic. Eddy also had lunch with the participants afterwards which allowed for candid conversations in smaller groups. Eddy is committed to his work and sharing his story in way that supports Educators in their work. He will also work adjust his presentation to meet the needs of your work. Eddy- a sincere thanks for spending your day with York Region District School Board! We look forward to seeing you at Quest 2016."
- Pamala Agawa, Curriculum Coordinator
"Eddy has presented for educators in Peel District School Board many times. Each presentation is engaging, informative, and educational, and participants always provide positive feedback afterwards. Eddy's presentations provide a balance between Indigenous history in Canada and Indigeneity in contemporary Canada too. His presentations highlight historical injustices, and offer multiple pathways toward reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Canada. All school boards can benefit from Eddy's knowledge and insight, and we look forward to having him in Peel again!"
- Melissa Wilson, MA, OCT
"Eddy Robinson is truly an inspirational member of the community. Through song, stories and discussions he creates a safe environment conducive for learning and sharing with all participants. His in-depth and extensive knowledge on indigenous culture and indigenous ways of knowing really helped my artist team understand the many layers of decolonization and how they can be involved in the process. I would highly recommend Eddy Robinson for any event you might be hosting where he can share his talents, insights and timeless wisdom."
- Matthew Jones aka Testament, Director of National Programs, UNITY Charity
"Eddy Robinson brings his experience into the room when he presents. He speaks from the heart. His is a voice to move us all toward respectful relations with one another."
- Celia Haig-Brown, York University
"I have had the great pleasure of working with Eddy on many occasions over the past few years. A skilled and effective speaker, his message is delivered with both purpose and humour, incorporating personal experiences, historical elements and global perspectives. A natural educator, he is able to create a comfortable space for discussion and a heightened level of audience engagement. I would highly recommend Eddy for your next event."
- Sherri Gray Senior Manager, TD Bank Group
"Eddy Robinson is a fearless speaker who walks his talk! He leads with a level of knowledge and optimism that is felt by everyone in his presence. Behind his humble and sincere energy is a powerful change maker who leaves audiences inspired. Eddy shares his story with an honesty that is critical to our self-awareness and responsiveness to the work we are called upon to do."
- Reagan Kennedy, Art Gallery of Mississauga
"We have worked with Eddy Robinson on several events and have found him to be professional and prompt in the planning stages and engaging and inspirational in execution. Our guests and staff have learned so much from Eddy with regards to Anishinaabe traditions and our challenging history as Canadians. He doesn’t shy away from difficult concepts and issues, but is able to engage audiences with the information in such a way as to inspire change and create allies in the community. I learn something new every time I hear him speak and love watching others walk away inspired by his presentations."
- Brenna Bartley, Educational Programming Conservation Halton
"Eddy Robinson's workshops authentically engage teachers in reimagining Canadian history. Eddy provides quality programing for our students and staff that strip away constructed stories of First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples, while engaging the learner with appropriate pedagogy and methodology that breaks down systemic and oppressive structures. Eddy has been fundamental in working with us to achieve our goals of creating equitable and inclusive programing for our students and staff. With a focus on Indigenous ways of knowing he uses his lived experiences to teach the historical narrative of Canada’s Indigenous communities. After attending sessions teachers leave with a deeper understanding of tradition, culture, segregation, assimilation and integration. Eddy is a prophetic voice that is desperately needed in our schools to build awareness, allyship and truth."
- Joanna Newton
"Eddy Robinson’s ability to speak with such passion and clarity while focusing on the importance of relationship when discussing the complex issues that face Indigenous Communities in “Canada” is powerful. Through sharing stories, facts and theory on the impacts of historic trauma from the colonial process and how existing forms of oppression affect Indigenous Communities calls people into the conversation in compassionate and influential ways. This act of calling people in allows for the audience to think about change as systemic, and a shared responsibility. "
- Hannah Batten, Wilfrid Laurier University
“Eddy Robinson is a gifted story-teller, an engaging workshop facilitator and an inspiring Keynote speaker. His captivating ability to share his cultural knowledge and history with a widely diverse audience, from a place of authenticity and inherent wisdom, allows for greater understanding and impactful learning that is instrumental in inspiring positive change in attitudes, individually and collectively.”
- Roz Espin, Harmony Movement
"I've worked with Eddy Robinson many times over the past ten years and each experience gets better.”
- Jennifer Podemski, Redcloud Studios Inc.
"I invited Eddy to speak to a group of indigenous and non-indigenous college students about music, the drum, and how technology can be used to pass on culture. Eddy's talk had my generally chatty group silently captivated from start to finish, and afterward he was surrounded by my students who had many questions. Beyond having a wealth of knowledge to draw from, Eddy backs that up with his depth of personal experiences that add a personal touch to the histories and teachings he shares. Though the topics he explores are serious, he interweaves these with humour and song, and these elements drew my students in immediately. Eddy's talk was a real gift, and I hope to invite him back every year."
- Kerry Potts, Humber College
"-
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