Vanna Blacksmith

Journalist

Vanna Blacksmith is two-spirit and Eenou-Anishinaabe Bear Clan from the Cree Nation of Mistissini with Ojibwe roots from Wiikwemikoong Unceded Territory. She is a journalist and part of CBC’s Indigenous Pathways first cohort. She currently resides in Kanien’kehá:ka territory of Tiohtià:ke, also known as Montreal.

Latest from Vanna Blacksmith

Young Cree leaders bring modern-day Treaty to United Nations forum

From Northern Quebec to the United Nations, Cree youth share insights on Indigenous self-governance at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues on April 22 in New York.
CANADA VOTES 2025

Where your federal candidates stand on issues facing Eeyou Istchee

Here’s what federal candidates have to say about their promises if elected to represent the Abitibi-Baie James-Nunavik-Eeyou riding, and more specifically, Eeyou Istchee. 

Voter turnout in Eeyou Istchee is traditionally low. Some hope this election will be different

In 2021 federal election, Eeyou Istchee saw a 17.7 per cent voter turnout compared to 63.5 per cent for the province as a whole, according figures from Elections Canada.

Northern Quebec Cree man shares and teaches cultural art in France

Tim Whiskeychan, a Cree contemporary artist from Waskaganish, flew to Paris this month to teach Cree culture through art with French students.

Child and family health-care centre expands to better serve Cree and Inuit in northern Quebec

Minnie's Hope is now in larger building. With support from major donors, the expansion allows for specialized services ensuring children receive care within their community rather than having to travel south.

Four First Nations acquire Hilton Quebec hotel

The James Bay Cree have partnered with the Naskapi, Huron-Wendat, and Mi'gmaq of Gespe'gewa'gi to become majority stakeholders of the Hilton Hotel in Quebec City.

Jordan's Principle backlogs may create difficulty funding sports in Eeyou Istchee

Jordan's Principle cases are piling up in Eeyou Istchee, which may make obtaining funding for sports and recreation more difficult.

Northern Quebec Cree announce first national park in their territory

The Cree Nation of Mistissini and the government of Quebec signed an agreement to create the first national park in Eeyou Istchee.

'I think as women, we have compassion': Jeannie Pelletier elected as new Cree health board chair

For over 28 years, Jeannie Pelletier has worked as a nurse, head nurse, co-ordinator, and local director. She is taking her role to new heights as chairperson of the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay.

Artists from Eeyou Istchee nominated for International Indigenous Hip Hop Awards

Artists from northern Quebec and Ontario have been nominated for International Indigenous Hip Hop Awards this year. The awards show is expected to happen in 2025.