Cover image for Firewater : how alcohol is killing my people (and yours) / Harold R. Johnson.
TITLE:
Firewater : how alcohol is killing my people (and yours) / Harold R. Johnson.
Publication Date:
2016
Publication Information:
Regina, Sask. : University of Regina Press,
Physical Description:
xiv, 180 p. : ill., map.
Bibliography Note:
Includes bibliographical references (pages 168-175) and index.
Summary:
Harold Johnson, Cree trapper and Crown Prosecutor, examines alcohol--its history, its myths, and its devastating impact on his community. Confronting what he calls a crime against humanity--one in every two will die an alcohol-related death in northern communities--Johnson refuses to be silent any longer. Asserting that the "lazy, drunken Indian" story is a root cause of the alcohol problems, Johnson sets out to recast the narrative of his people, urging them to reject this racist description of who they are. He calls on traditional stories, spirituality, and medical research for guidance. He also enlists the support of Indigenous artists and leaders, including contributions from Richard Van Camp and Tracey Lindberg.
Language:
English
ISBN:
9780889774377