Episode Eighteen: Chief Kelly LaRocca

Chief Kelly LaRocca of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation joins Art Waves for a very special episode. Chief LaRocca explains the role of a chief, and how she makes and keeps space for people to engage with their culture. Chief LaRocca describes the Williams Treaties and the impact on the Mississaugas, how the treaties recognized pre-confederation harvesting rights, and how inadequate compensation packages pushed First Nations communities to be resourceful. Chief LaRocca and Marion discuss how the Mississaugas support local organizations and encourage the community to learn more about the rich history and culture of Indigenous peoples. She also describes her advocacy work which includes ending a 13-year drinking water advisory for the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. Thank you to the Ontario Trillium Foundation for making this podcast possible! Learn more about the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, here: https://www.scugogfirstnation.com/Public/Home.aspx