about
The Course’s Values
The Reporting in Indigenous Communities course, led by Professor Duncan McCue, immerses Carleton journalism students in Indigenous communities in Ottawa and the Ottawa Valley to foster ethical, long-term storytelling. Our media partners this year are Canadian Geographic and The Narwhal.
Immersive
RIIC takes students beyond the classroom, immersing them in Indigenous communities for months to build meaningful connections and firsthand storytelling experiences.
Ethical
The program emphasizes responsible journalism, teaching students to foster trust, respect community autonomy, and maintain long-term relationships rather than extract stories and leave.
Transformative
By challenging traditional reporting practices, RIIC reshapes how students understand journalism, Indigenous perspectives, and their role in ethical storytelling.
Our Website Team
Shelna Matheis
Website Designer
Sarah St-Pierre
Copy Editor
Julia Stratton
Copy Editor
Jasmine Birks
Photo Editor
Hannah Daramola
Social Media Editor
Madison Flaro
Social Media Editor
Roger Martin
IT Advisor
Professor Duncan McCue
Senior Editor
David Kawai
Photography Advisor
Our Logo…
Our Reporting in Indigenous Communities logo and masthead was created by Dawn Iehstoseranon:nha. Dawn is Akwesasronon (Akwesasne), Kanienkéha’ka (Mohawk), Wakhskaré:wake (Bear Clan), Feather Keeper/Protector and artist practicing and sharing Bird medicines. She is the founder of the Indigenous Arts Collective of Canada and artist at Pass The Feather. Dawn is also a writer, graphic and web designer passionate about elevating Indigenous voices through websites, branding and marketing.
… and the story behind it
“The ‘Reporting in Indigenous Communities’ logo was created to reflect the importance of knowledge sharing and leans into storytelling as the original way to record history, lived experiences and worldviews. Journalism is storytelling and a forever vital tool in shaping perspectives and creating awareness. Crucial in working alongside Indigenous communities is understanding the existence of deeply embedded relationships with the natural world; represented here with sunlight illuminating the bold voice of Raven who can never be silenced.” – Dawn Iehstoseranon:nha