Fireside Chats Returns with Grand Chief Jerry Daniels

“Through this weekly radio program, we aim to connect, inform, and uplift the positive stories coming from our First Nations, while also showcasing the vital work SCO is doing to advocate for our citizens.” – Grand Chief Daniels

ANISHINAABE AND DAKOTA TERRITORY, MB — The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is pleased to announce the return of our weekly radio program called “Fireside Chats with Grand Chief Jerry Daniels.”

This 30-minute radio program will air every Friday evening from 5:30 to 6 pm Central Time on NCI FM. The program, hosted by Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, can be heard in the Winnipeg area at 105.5 FM.

“I’m thrilled to launch season two of Fireside Chats,” shared SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. “This is a pivotal moment for our people—with the upcoming federal election, an international trade war, and remarkable advancements being made by members of SCO Nations. Through this weekly radio program, we aim to connect, inform, and uplift the positive stories, while showcasing the vital work SCO is doing to advocate for our citizens.”

The program will feature dynamic discussions with Chiefs, Youth Chiefs, leaders, community advocates, Elders, SCO citizens, and Knowledge Keepers, exploring both current and historical issues impacting First Nations.

In the premiere episode, airing this evening at 5:30 pm, listeners will meet the recently-elected SCO Youth Chiefs, Lacy Bird from Black River First Nation and Billy Bird from Peguis First Nation.

“I’m proud to be one of the first guests on the new season of Fireside Chats with Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. Radio is a great way to connect with our youth and to share important ideas and updates,” said SCO Youth Chief Lacy Bird. “I am thankful to SCO for giving me this platform to share my story and hopefully I can use it to inspire others. Being able to represent the youth across all 32 SCO Nations is an honour. At age 16, I am humbled to be the youngest Youth Chief ever elected for SCO.”

As the federal election approaches on April 28, SCO has launched our Rock the Vote campaign to encourage southern First Nations citizens to cast their ballots. During the first episode of season two, Grand Chief Daniels will discuss voting and the upcoming election with our Youth Chiefs.

“As a first-time voter, I understand how important it is to have a voice in this upcoming election,” shared SCO Youth Chief Billy Bird. “Voting isn’t just about casting a ballot; it’s about contributing to the growth and success of our people. I am excited to speak out and encourage all First Nation youth to take this opportunity seriously. I am encouraging my fellow youth to make sure they are registered to vote on April 28^th. Let’s show up and make our voices count.”

SCO’s Fireside Chats is broadcast on NCI (also know as Native Communications Inc.), a non-partisan, Indigenous-operated public broadcaster in Manitoba. NCI provides radio programming designed by, and for, Indigenous people across the province.

“Fireside Chats is a significant way for us to continue sharing valuable information with the citizens of SCO member Nations. I encourage everyone to tune in to NCI FM on Fridays at 5:30 pm to meet our Youth Chiefs and to be inspired by them,” concluded Grand Chief Daniels.

To catch up on past episodes, visit Fireside Chats with Grand Chief Jerry Daniels on our website. Future episodes will also be added to the webpage as they become available.

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The Southern Chiefs’ Organization represents 32 First Nations and more than 87,000 citizens in what is now called southern Manitoba. SCO is an independent political organization that protects, preserves, promotes, and enhances First Nations peoples’ inherent rights, languages, customs, and traditions through the application and implementation of the spirit and intent of the Treaty-making process.

For media inquiries:

Email: Media@scoinc.mb.ca

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