The University of Saskatchewan (U of S) has announced Ryan Moccasin as the new Indigenous Storyteller in Residence in the USask Library. “Moccasin is an accomplished storyteller with a dynamic background in television and film, where he has dedicated himself to helping others learn how to share their stories with the world,” the university said in a release. “Moccasin believes laughter is medicine and uses comedy and parody to satirize the world and those in power, creating space for joy, reflection and dialogue.” “One of the greatest gifts a person can hold is the power of storytelling,” explained Moccasin, who previously served as president of the Indigenous Students’ Council at the U of S. Moccasin is also a published author, writing Suicide Empire, as well as a 2022 feature on Sask Polytech. “Our people are story weavers, entrusted with carrying memories from the past and imagining futures that have yet to be written. It’s an incredible honour to be part of a program built on the shoulders of great artists before me, and I look forward to sharing this next chapter with all of you.” Moccasin’s residency will culminate in a special presentation during Indigenous Achievement Week in March. “The Indigenous Storyteller in Residence program reminds us of the profound power that stories hold to connect, inspire, and teach,” said Dr. Lori Birrell (EdD), dean of the University Library. “We are truly excited to welcome Ryan into our library community and to learn and create alongside him.” The Indigenous Storyteller in Residence is funded through University Library donors.
