NSB Logo Eddy Robinson Eddy Robinson

Eddy Robinson

Speaker Exclusive

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Indigenous Artist, Activist & Educator

An Anishinaabe/Muskegowuk Cree of the Missanabie Cree First Nation born and raised in the city of Toronto. Like many Indigenous people in Canada, Eddy did not enjoy an easy childhood as an Anishinaabe youth in the big city. His father – a Residential School survivor – left the family when he was just three years old. Eddy subsequently endured years of abuse from an alcoholic parent. Only in his adult years was Eddy able to understand the legacy of his father’s experience at Chapleau Indian Residential School and Shingwauk Indian Residential School. Eddy has over 20 years of experience working with Indigenous communities, social servicing agencies and various levels of government organizations. He strongly believes that achieving a mutually respectful relationship with Indigenous communities is through creating culturally safe environments together in partnership with corporations, government, non-profits, educational and charitable organizations.

Keynote Speeches

Virtual Keynotes & Webinars
Contact us for more information about this speaker & their virtual presentations. Click here for some of the most popular formats for virtual events.
Diversity & Inclusiveness

Eddy looks at the methodology of being inclusive of ethno-communities and diversity within the educational systems through Indigenous best practices. Multi-culturalism – although well intended – has been a vehicle that has stifled and silenced many voices. The inclusiveness of the global diaspora and nationhood is crucial to the growth of a nation.

 

Truth and Reconciliation in Education: Moving Forward Together 

Global citizens have been left out of the conversation of the Indigenous narrative. Truth and Reconciliation is a vehicle that can bring us together. This conversation is important for educators who are on the front line in cultivating the relationship between the next generation of Indigenous & non-Indigenous peoples. Core to this is inclusion and asking the question: How can we strengthen the educational framework for Indigenous learners? As a survivor of the education system, Eddy provides personal accounts of his Indigenous experience growing up in city schools. With a Master’s in Education, he is keenly aware of how the educational system works. Eddy empowers educators, leaders and administrators to be introspective within their educational practice in order to identify how colonialism is perpetuated. Audiences will be equipped to create space for the Indigenous conversation physically, mentally, emotionally and digitally.

Key Takeaways:
• How to incorporate Indigenous insights into strategy and change.
• The ‘5-L’ framework for creating space for Indigenous conversation.
• A structure for educators to approach Indigenous knowledge.

 

Urban Indigenous Ways of Knowing

Eddy approaches the topic of Indigenous Ways of Knowing through an urban lens grounded in the Indigenous methodology of locating one self. He also looks at how we can engage Indigenous ways of knowing through modern technology. When Anishinaabe (Ojibway) people locate themselves in the Anishinaabe language they are essentially locating their spirit to the universe and creation. When in the city and we locate ourselves as Indigenous people with Indigenous methodologies we are re-Indigenizing urban
spaces. Eddy creates access points for the audience to engage in the conversation.

 

Rewriting Your Story

In this presentation, Eddy shares his personal narrative. He discusses the struggles he faced with his First Nations (Indigenous) identity and the allies who created safe spaces for him throughout his life. Growing up facing struggles of poverty and marginalization, Eddy ended up being on the front line at shelters within the city before making the decision to rewrite his story. He overcame a learning barrier, took on a self-education through books, before eventually obtaining his masters in education and finding himself on the frontline of the academic realm.

Eddy also offers presentations on the urban indigenous experience and more. View a full list of his presentations here.

Indigenous Educational Frameworks and Methodologies

Professional learners, educators, teachers and teacher candidates will review Indigenous educational frameworks and methodologies currently being used for; educational institutions, the classroom, academic communities, staff & faculty. Indigenous pedagogy, epistemologies and cultural practices will be contrasted to the current academic environments learners are currently engaged in.

Eddy also offers presentations on the urban Indigenous experience and more. View here:

Introduction: Indigenous Awareness 101

This workshop will discuss Indigenous methodologies and how it translates to life today for students, professionals and individuals. This workshop will allow participants to safely ask the question of 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 (Indigenous, non-status, First Nations, Métis, Inuit and Native American), culture, language, location and populations.

 

Urban Indigenous Ways of Knowing

Indigenous People do not only live on Reserves. The urban Indigenous experiences takes the narrative to every major city across North America since there were cities. Urban Indigenous Ways of Knowing discusses the urban Indigenous experiences today as well as wholistic technology and prescriptive technology. In this time of modern technology; where everyone pretty much has a computer in their hand. We can be innovative and use technology as a vehicle to engage and mobilize Indigenous culture. During this workshop the idea of Digital Bundles will be discussed and the concept of Traditional Sacred Bundles and how this can translate to digital space and the world wide web. Physical space is not the only space we need to re-Indigenize. This workshop also engages learners with ideas of how to create an online Indigenous presence using social media, audio and video platforms.

Platform Plus Presentations

Unique formats and ways to connect with audiences.
Eddy Robinson Workshop Formats:
Workshop | Indigenous Cultural Awareness
This workshop will discuss Indigenous methodologies and how it translates to life today for students, professionals and individuals. This workshop will allow participants to safely ask the question of 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.
Community Facilitation Workshop
Eddy will engage and meet them where they are at and help guide them through a S.W.O.T (Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats) analysis. In this process the community will lead the conversation in a cultural safe environment with the intention of visioning next steps.
Anti-Oppression Training/Workshop 1 & 2
Becoming an Indigenous Ally/Critical Friend:
In this two part series Eddy approaches becoming an Indigenous Ally/Critical Friend through grounding learners with his personal insight to the Indigenous narrative in Canada. The Indigenous voice has been left out of many conversations through systemic racism and anti-Indigenous racism. In order to elevate the collective consciousness he calls on people to take action within their personal and professional space. Indigenous methodologies and Cultural safe practices will be offered during the talk in order to help foster and form relationships with Indigenous people and communities. In day two Eddy focuses on group work and encourages courageous conversation amongst participants to move in direction together.
Intercultural Competency Workshops
This workshop will address the 94 Calls to Action within the classroom, and workplace. We will cover how you can engage the calls to action within your immediate environment and use the several resources available to create an awareness within co-workers, colleagues, students, parents and community. This workshop will engage in a physical exercise and the breakdown of the community nucleus and impacts of oppression in North America. This workshop will also draw attention to the immediate impacts of colonization (loss of status, enfranchisement) resulting in many Indigenous people migrating to the urban centres. Due to the overwhelming numbers faced with poverty and discrimination this started an evolution of urban Indigenous organizations to meet the needs in the cities. Eddy not only shares his personal experience having to rely on these centres but his professional experience working locally, provincial and nationally with the fastest growing demographic in Canada; Indigenous (Aboriginal) People.
Hollywood Indians, Stereotypes and Misconceptions
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. Unfortunately in 2015/2016 the appropriation of Indigenous culture and objectification of Indigenous people is continuously still a presence within media and mainstream.
Engaging Indigenous Communities:
This workshop will cover Indigenous methods of how to engage Indigenous communities in the most respectful way; understand the Indigenous landscape and navigate conversations in Canada and North America. You will learn terminology and terms of references so that you may effectively research information and inform your

Audience reviews:

  • On behalf of our entire team, I wanted to extend our heartfelt thanks for your inspiring and thought-provoking keynote address during today's employee webinar in honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Your words resonated deeply with our team, and your insights into the importance of truth and reconciliation were both enlightening and moving. Your presence elevated the webinar with your songs and drums, and we received numerous positive comments from our employees about the impact of your speech. Your contribution has played a significant role in fostering understanding, empathy, and a commitment to reconciliation within our organization. - Medavie
  • Eddy Robinson's talks fit perfectly with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's call for all of to learn more about First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples. Eddy's an Anishinaabe brother, who I greatly respect. His talks focus on fostering relationship building between the organizations, institutions and agencies with thoughtfulness and cultural safety. He shares the impacts of colonization, historic trauma and existing issues of oppression within the First Nations’ communities in a way that is approachable and accessible. Through stories and song, Eddy works towards a day when the power of knowledge, inclusiveness and sharing of First Nations cultures helps our nation and all its’ people connected and stronger.

    - Wab Kinew
  • The depth of knowledge and respect eddy Robinson brings to the mainstream through cultural presentations is invaluable.

    - Ryan McMahon Ojibway/Metis Comedian
  • He is able to address issues of race and discrimination in a way that is non-threatening and allows for deep discussions and commitment from schools to address injustices to the Aboriginal people.

    - Superintendent, Toronto District School Board
  • Everything went great at the conference. Eddy's keynote was fantastic and he was a pleasure to work with. We really appreciate all of your help with making Eddy's keynote at our event a success.

    - Tapestry Conference Coordinator, Greater Victoria School District
  • 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.

    - TRUTHPLANE Inc.
  • 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.

    - Associate Vice-President Research Office of the Vice-President Research & Innovation, York University
  • 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.

    - Regional Sales Manager, Aboriginal Banking, Prairies & Territories TD Commercial Banking
  • 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.

    - Senior Manager, Corporate Diversity, Aboriginal Peoples and Serving Diverse Communities – TD Bank Group

Speaker Biography

Eventually ending up in the care of his grandparents, Eddy found himself caught in the same cycle of violence and addiction that dominated his childhood. He credits a Catholic priest at the Native Peoples Parish located in Toronto for first encouraging him to seek out his roots. He pointed Eddy to a traditional Anishinaabe Vision Quest/Fasting held at “Dreamers Rock” located on Manitoulin Island, ON; that would imminently begin his journey towards understanding his Indigenous identity and helping him leave behind the family legacy of abuse and violence.

The power of the Dewegun (Drum) brought Robinson to the doorway of ceremony and other aspects of his Indigenous Way of Knowing. It was during the early years that he was first exposed called him to a heritage that he now credits with saving his life and setting him on a good path in life.

Over the past 25 years of working on the frontline of social services and advocating for Indigenous communities locally, provincially and nationally Eddy has evolved into a noted Anishinaabe artist, musician, educator, facilitator, trainer and public speaker. He’s involved with numerous local district school boards, colleges, universities, corporate institutions and several Indigenous/Aboriginal organizations.

With the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada putting forth 94 recommendations for residential school healing, Eddy engages the TRC through a personal narrative.  He discusses growing up as an urban Indigenous person and his professional experience with Indigenous organizations on local, provincial and national levels.

Eddy emphasizes the utter importance of engaging Indigenous people in a respectful and reciprocal way. Reconciliation for Eddy 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 this legacy of resurgence.

Eddy encourages non-Indigenous people to seek out a deeper understanding of what it means to be Anishinaabe, Indigenous, First Nations, Métis and Inuit before stepping on the path of reconciliation. A member of the Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business Eddy established his First Nations owned and operated business Morningstar River in 2007 to address the societal need for Indigenous education and displays of authentic culture.

His employment experiences, educational background and First Nation ancestry provides him with a strong multi-faceted skill set and working knowledge of Indigenous history, culture and best practices.

Throughout the years, Eddy has delivered over 1000 sessions of keynote addresses, public talks, Indigenous cultural awareness/competency training, group work and facilitation to thousands of professional and schooled aged learners. He has also traveled internationally speaking about Truth and Reconciliation, the impacts of Indian Residential/Boarding Schools, intergenerational trauma, Indigenous identity, Indigenous ways of knowing, holistic technology, Anti-Indigenous racism, stereotypes and misconceptions, inclusion and diversity, ally-ship, as well as sharing his own story of adversity.