Buckley Petawabano, an influential Cree actor, radio trailblazer, and cinematographer known for advancing Indigenous representation in Canadian media, passed away on October 19 at the age of 77. Recognized as a pioneer in Cree storytelling and communication, Petawabano played a crucial role in shaping Indigenous broadcasting in Canada across various platforms such as film, television, theatre, and radio. His impactful work not only influenced Cree artists and media professionals but also inspired them to share their narratives authentically.
Dale Cooper, the director of the Cree Native Arts and Crafts Association, emphasized that Petawabano’s contributions extended beyond acting, highlighting his leadership, filmmaking, and storytelling skills. Cooper noted that one of Petawabano’s significant achievements was presenting a proposal to the CRTC to promote Indigenous broadcasting, which eventually led to the establishment of the James Bay Cree Communications Society (JBCCS), formerly known as the Cree Radio Network. The JBCCS, a Cree-led radio broadcaster founded in 1981, has been instrumental in serving Eeyou Istchee in northern Quebec.
Petawabano, one of the early Eenou actors (traditional name for James Bay Cree) on Canadian television, starred in popular shows like Adventures in Rainbow Country and Cold Journey, bringing Cree voices and perspectives to a national audience. Cooper praised Petawabano’s legacy for his dedication to showcasing Cree culture on a broader platform. Former Grand Chief Matthew Coon Come also commended Petawabano’s groundbreaking work in television, highlighting the importance of representation in media during a time when Indigenous faces were scarce on screen.
As a survivor of residential schools, Petawabano channeled his experiences into cultural storytelling and advocacy, as reflected in the film Cold’s Journey, where he portrayed a Cree boy navigating the challenges of the residential school system. In recognition of his lifelong contributions, the Cree Native Arts and Crafts Association honored Petawabano with the prestigious Cree Legend Award in 2013, later establishing the Buckley Petawabano Award in his honor to continue inspiring future generations of Cree storytellers and media creators.
Cooper emphasized that the awards symbolize the significant impact of Petawabano’s work in paving the way for others in the Cree creative industries. His legacy as a trailblazer in Indigenous media continues to be remembered, with his influence resonating across generations of storytellers and creators.