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Home » Obituaries » Remembering Dan David, Influential Mohawk Journalist
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Obituaries

Remembering Dan David, Influential Mohawk Journalist

January 20, 20268 Mins Read
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Remembering Dan David, Influential Mohawk Journalist
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Miles Morrisseau
ICT

Dan David, a respected journalist and educator known for his contributions to media, passed away on January 12 after battling a long illness. He was 73.

A member of the Mohawk community from Kanehsatà: ke, David is celebrated as one of Canada’s most significant Indigenous journalists. His efforts in 2000 were key in launching the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network, which became the first national television network dedicated entirely to Indigenous content.

“He changed the course of Canadian history, and I say that because there was no Facebook and there was no Twitter or anything like that when we started, and people in one community to another didn’t have a way of speaking to each other,” said Karyn Pugliese, a journalist from Pikwakinagin First Nation who worked at that early newsroom and recently returned to APTN as host and producer of “Face to Face.”

“We did a lot of stories that showed that people weren’t alone,” Pugliese told ICT. “They think something’s only happening in their community, and then they realize, ‘Wait a second, it’s not just my daughter that’s missing. There’s a lot of missing women out there.’”

Jim Compton from Keeseekoose First Nation served as program director at APTN during its launch and collaborated closely with David to establish the news department.

“Dan David and I spoke in a blog recently on the launch of APTN,” Compton mentioned. “We hadn’t talked for quite some time. But I’ll never forget our experiences while launching APTN News along with the network.

“Every day we would ask each other, ‘Wonder what fresh hell awaits us today?’ There was always something requiring our attention with whatever diplomacy we could muster,” he said. “At that time, we were living the dream of creating a national network with a flagship news department covering stories from coast to coast. Rest in Peace, my friend.”

A personal view

Dan David had an understanding smile.

It wasn’t about being arrogant; it was clear he valued ideas and opinions and truly wanted to hear what you thought. We first connected while working at CBC, Canada’s national broadcaster.

I was involved with “Sunday Morning,” CBC Radio’s leading documentary program while he served as the national Native Affairs broadcaster for the corporation-a position I later took over when he moved on to new opportunities.

We were among the only two Indigenous staff members at CBC in Toronto across both radio and television; however, he was there first. We both attended Western University’s journalism program focused on Native Peoples-he graduated in 1981 while I completed my studies in 1985.

Journalist Dan David is seen here alongside Karyn Pugliese and Duncan Mc Cue; he received recognition for his contributions to Indigenous journalism as co-recipient of the Charles Bury Award in 2023. Credit: Photo via APTN

Dan enjoyed laughing at life’s absurdities but took serious matters seriously too. This contrast made more sense as I listened more closely to elders from various nations who taught me how laughter plays an essential role in resilience. Elders could share tough truths yet uplift you with unexpected humor.

Sometimes breaking free from heavy moments calls for saying something surprising or even inappropriate just to lighten up oppressive feelings.

Diving into one tense moment during modern Canadian history, Dan and I took over the airwaves at Kanehsatake where we acted somewhat foolishly together. Being from Kanehsatake himself meant Dan lived close by when Sûreté du Québec-the provincial police-raided their community aiming to dismantle barricades set up against constructing a golf course. This standoff became known as one of Canada’s longest armed conflicts.

I was assigned by CBC to cover this story so I crossed Lake Two Mountains with some locals sneaking food supplies into those under siege-including insulin for diabetics among other essentials needed within their community.

I reached out directly after arriving near home; Dan welcomed me into his family residence where I slept on his couch most nights while spending evenings working at local rez radio station nearby until one night when Dan invited me onto airwaves alongside him doing our show together! Neither wanted my real name used so he playfully dubbed me Hank-a nod towards Hank Williams due solely to my love for classic country tunes!

The atmosphere felt lighthearted throughout despite dark circumstances around us; we entertained ourselves talking music interspersed with silly jokes making an effort hopefully entertaining listeners feeling trapped within stressful surroundings outside barricades surrounding them daily instead focusing solely upon everyday struggles faced by everyone involved without discussing negotiations or updates but rather providing temporary relief amidst chaos unfolding beyond borders closing off options available all around them!

Indigenous identity

Indigenous identity

Indigenous identity

In addition.. to his work here back home , David is also honored internationally regarding transforming South Africa ’ s state-run apartheid media into services accessible across diverse populations. In tribute through South African Broadcasting Corporation , Danny ’ s remarkable impact found acknowledgment.

“Danny has been an important part of my life. As his spirit departs , the gap left behind feels real-almost unbearable,” wrote Sylvia Vollenhoven , former executive producer at SABC-TV.”Hamba Kahle Comrade Thaioronióhte Dan David. Thank you for lessons learned along with laughter shared plus love given generously throughout your journey touching many lives everywhere encountered ! You taught us well listening carefully whilst traveling boldly onward meeting adversity gracefully.”

Born June 2nd ,1952 near Syracuse New York-but later relocated toward Kanensata : ke Mohawk territory before turning four years old alongside family caring responsibilities involving maternal grandparents present locally. After completing education requirements linked up immediately joining forces within CBC Radio subsequently producing shows across TVOntario followed afterward working on VISION TV. Additionally serving roles facilitating diversity initiatives including chairing committees related toward developing young talent via Journalists For Human Rights according reports released through sources affiliated like APTN! Besides activities focusing directly upon North America alone-for instance training journalists based overseas including Indonesia/Azerbaijan further broadening horizons previously unimagined ultimately shifting cultural perceptions enhancing storytelling excellence! Alongside writing essays addressing complex discussions surrounding Native American identities openly online magazine Open Canada -highlighted importance recognizing ownership claiming rights belonging inherently rightful existing prior colonization frameworks imposed thereafter disregarded altogether by governing authorities entitled simply showcasing strong conviction expressing perspectives favorably counteracting dominant narratives perpetuated historically ! One esteemed playwright Drew Hayden Taylor hailing Curve Lake First Nation had shared fond memories reminiscing over years spent knowing each other mutually supportive journeys intertwined exchanging ideas frequently visiting together often sharing countless dinners filled camaraderie! “I’ve felt privileged calling myself acquainted alongside amazing individuals such as ‘Dan’ whom made lasting impressions shaped trajectory future generations pursuing similar paths!” exclaimed Taylor enthusiastically recalling moments spent collaborating connecting deeply rooted friendships formed naturally blossoming overtime. As talented chef extraordinaire displaying impressive culinary skills whipping pasta dishes remarkably utilizing ingredients prepared expertly flowing wine liberally resulting delightful gatherings experienced warmth treasured cherished memories created forevermore! Though distance may arise between friends inevitably drifting apart sometimes-that doesn’t diminish connection bonded fondly reminisced every single thought conjured sparks laughter celebrating vibrant personality reflects pride belongingness encompassing entire human experience ultimately leaving indelible traces cherished hearts forever living proudly through continued endeavors pursued actively promoting justice equality advocating change resolutely determined never losing sight fundamental principles guiding purpose driven outreach programs established non-profit organization dedicated uplifting marginalized voices amplifying unheard narratives inspiring movements forward rather than regressing backward amid systemic oppression! In recognition honoring accomplishments attained throughout career lifespan highlighted during ceremony held last year where presented Lifetime Achievement Award bestowed graciously honoring legacy set forth trailblazers paving roads accessibility universal acceptance fostering dialogues bridging gaps communication seamlessly knitting communities closer united cause pushing boundaries until freedom reigns firmly amongst all peoples regardless backgrounds lived experiences adhered collectively marching onward together unabated striving toward brighter tomorrows fulfilled dreams aspirations seen realized truly believing possibilities exist outweigh challenges laid ahead hopeful optimistic spirits remain intact unwavering unfazed moving ahead undeterred. “Dan Davidson exemplified pioneer spirit whose visionary outlook revolutionized landscape journalistic practices permanently shifting paradigms illuminating pathways empowering marginalized communities allowing voices finally heard telling own tales authentically without censorship filtering interference whatsoever” declared Natalie Turvey president foundation directing efforts aimed towards enlightening public discourse capturing attention revealing truths shaped destiny tomorrow ensuring inclusivity representation accurately reflected lives experienced untold stories unfolding deserving wider audience insight sharing honestly impacted lives immensely touched far-reaching ramifications extending growth potential limitless possibilities achieved cooperation collaboration proactive engagement fostering meaningful relationships cultivated nurtured compassionately continuously reaching out warmly embracing supporting fellow travelers journeys undertaken side-by-side lovingly remaining steadfast friendship formed everlastingly imbued rich essence profound experience resonating deeply resounding loudly echoing spaces filled hope restoration healing extended outreach woven intricately developing foundations grounded unity acceptance perseverance dedicated continuing path positivity inspired motivation endless possibilities awaiting discovery urging venture forth courageously embark adventures worthwhile! May deepest condolences extend heartfelt sentiments reach families grieving dearly departed souls loved ones navigating difficult times moving forward remembering joyful moments cherishing legacies carried forth brightly shining new light guiding footsteps future endeavors paved wisely reflecting values instilled nurturing compassion empathy promoting social justice equity fairness safeguarding humanity rightfully honors memories revered eternally etched hearts intertwining bonds forged indelibly profound connections transcend lifetimes forming unbreakable ties fostered forgiveness reconciliation bringing healing peace solace combined empowerment liberation encouraging dialogue fostering understanding mutual respect !

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