Crystal Gail Fraser Highlights Indigenous Survival Through Storytelling

Historian and Associate Professor Crystal Gail Fraser is making significant strides in preserving and sharing Indigenous narratives in the Northwest Territories. Through her latest work, By Strength, We Are Still Here: Indigenous Peoples and Indian Residential Schooling in Inuvik, Northwest Territories, Fraser focuses on survival stories that reflect the resilience of Indigenous peoples, particularly the Gwich’in community. She aims to foster stronger relationships within her community and beyond.

Transforming Historical Narratives

Fraser emphasizes that “storytelling is how we understand the world,” highlighting the importance of narratives in bridging cultural divides. Her book draws on survivor testimonies from Indigenous children who were displaced during the era of Indian Residential Schools, a painful chapter in Canadian history marked by cultural erasure and trauma. She is the first researcher to document these experiences specifically in Inuvik and other northern communities, where the lack of federal oversight allowed missionaries to operate without accountability.

Reflecting on her journey, Fraser reveals that the survivor stories she collected became the answers she sought throughout her life. “I didn’t know much about this either,” she admits regarding her understanding of Indian Residential Schools in the North. The release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action in 2015 served as a catalyst for her to delve deeper into this critical area of research.

Embedded within her work is a message of ancestral strength, demonstrating how communities can overcome adversity and support one another during healing processes. Fraser’s book not only serves as an academic resource but also as a medium for fostering empathy and understanding between diverse cultures.

Insights from Research and Writing

Fraser’s experience in writing this book has expanded her academic pursuits beyond her PhD thesis. She emphasizes the importance of self-care while conducting trauma research, stating, “Take better care of oneself while writing stories. Look after yourself and keep things simple.” This advice underscores the emotional weight that comes with sharing sensitive and painful histories.

In her role as a steward of storytelling, Fraser believes that every narrative deserves respect. She encourages others to engage with the stories of all nations, which continue to be unraveled and shared. As a Gwichya Gwich’in historian, Fraser also operates Indigenous Consulting Services Inc., where she offers a range of services, including scholarly research, creative writing, and community engagement with Indigenous Nations.

Fraser’s efforts not only preserve Indigenous stories but also contribute to a broader understanding of history and cultural identity. Her work stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in fostering resilience and encouraging dialogue among diverse populations.

As Fraser continues to share these vital narratives, her commitment to Indigenous peoples in the Northwest Territories remains unwavering, highlighting the enduring strength of community and the importance of remembering the past.