Buckley Petawabano, a pioneering Cree actor, radio innovator, and cinematographer who paved the way for Indigenous representation in Canadian media, passed away on October 19 at the age of 77. Recognized as a visionary in Cree storytelling and communications, Petawabano played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Indigenous broadcasting in Canada. His impactful contributions spanned various mediums including film, television, theater, and radio, inspiring numerous generations of Cree artists and media practitioners to share their narratives authentically.
Described by Dale Cooper, director of the Cree Native Arts and Crafts Association, as not only an actor but also a leader, filmmaker, and storyteller, Petawabano’s significant achievement included presenting a groundbreaking proposal to the CRTC to promote Indigenous broadcasting. This proposal led to the establishment of the Cree Radio Network, now known as the James Bay Cree Communications Society (JBCCS), a radio broadcaster run by Cree individuals that has been serving Eeyou Istchee in northern Quebec since 1981. Cooper emphasized the enduring importance of telecommunications and radio in Cree communication today.
As one of the earliest Eenou actors (the traditional name for James Bay Cree) to grace Canadian television screens, Petawabano starred in notable productions such as Adventures in Rainbow Country in the early 1970s and Cold Journey in the late 1970s. Through his on-screen portrayals, he brought Cree voices and perspectives to audiences nationwide, leaving a lasting impact on the representation of Cree culture in the media landscape.
Reflecting on Petawabano’s legacy, former Grand Chief Matthew Coon Come highlighted the actor’s groundbreaking role in Rainbow Country, noting his pivotal contribution to showcasing Indigenous faces on television when such representation was scarce. Coon Come emphasized that Petawabano’s significance extended beyond his on-screen presence, describing him as a cherished community member who embodied strength, humility, and purpose, opening doors for many through his authentic representation.
A survivor of residential schools, including Bishop Horden Memorial School and Shingwauk Indian Residential School, Petawabano channeled his experiences into cultural storytelling and advocacy, with his journey inspiring the film Cold’s Journey where he portrayed Buckley Potawabano, a Cree boy navigating the challenges of the residential school system. Cooper lauded Petawabano’s substantial contributions to the Cree creative industries, underscoring that his legacy will endure through his impactful work.
In recognition of his lifelong dedication, the Cree Native Arts and Crafts Association bestowed Petawabano with the prestigious Cree Legend Award in 2013 and later established the Buckley Petawabano Award in his honor, ensuring his enduring influence on future generations of Cree storytellers and media creators. Cooper emphasized that these accolades celebrated the remarkable contributions, influence, and excellence of Cree individuals in the media realm, underscoring Petawabano’s role in paving the way for countless others to follow in his footsteps.
Cooper expressed the hope that Petawabano’s trailblazing efforts in the media industry would be remembered, highlighting his legendary status and the significant impact he made in advancing Indigenous representation in the media landscape.