Presenters

• Carolyn Kennedy Nautical Archaeologist
  

  Carolyn Kennedy

  Nautical Archaeologist

  Carolyn Kennedy is a professor of nautical archaeology at Texas A&M University where her research focuses on historical ships and shipwrecks of North America. Born in Montreal, Carolyn’s family has roots along the Gaspé Coast which prompted her interest in the maritime cultural heritage of the region. Carolyn’s most recent research project includes a remote-sensing survey of Gaspé Bay where she is searching for historic shipwrecks belonging to European explorers and fishermen dating to the 16th through 19th centuries. In addition to her research in Gaspé, Carolyn has directed or participated in archaeological projects all over the world, including Lake Champlain (Vermont), Alexandria (Virginia), Toronto, the Mediterranean, and the Marshall Islands. Carolyn is also an avid SCUBA diver and instructor as well as an experienced sailor and is a strong advocate for making maritime history and heritage available to a broad public audience.

• Chantal Chagnon Singer, Drummer, Artist, Storyteller, Actor, Educator, Workshop Facilitator, Social Justice Advocate
  

  Chantal Chagnon

  Singer, Drummer, Artist, Storyteller, Actor, Educator, Workshop Facilitator, Social Justice Advocate

  Chantal is a Cree Ojibwe Métis Singer, Drummer, Artist, Storyteller, Actor, Educator, Workshop Facilitator, Social Justice Advocate and Activist with roots in Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, Saskatchewan. She shares Traditional Indigenous Songs, Stories, Culture, History, Arts, Crafts and Teachings. Chantal has presented at Conferences, Conventions, Galas, Fundraisers, Community, Social Justice Events and in Classrooms from Preschool through University. She has performed at the National Music Centre, Saddle Dome, Jubilee Auditorium, Jack Singer Concert Hall, and many other stages showcasing Traditional and Contemporary Indigenous Music, as well as Modern Music in Collaboration with various Bands and Artists. Chantal aims to entertain, engage, enlighten, educate, and inspire everyone she meets.

  A single mother of two boys, and adopted twin girls, she understands societal struggle first hand. Chantal has been an activist, advocate for her community, professional performer and a staunch crusader for causes close to her heart. She is active within many social justice causes, including Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women (MMIW), Women’s Rights, and Environmental Initiatives. She regularly organizes events and shares, singing, drumming, speaking, presenting, and teaching within the community, with a focus on building allies and alliances. Chantal Chagnon is passionate about building awareness and sharing understanding of Indigenous culture, spirituality, social justice and political issues. She creates opportunities for cooperation, education, and empowerment everywhere she can.

  Chantal recognizes sharing culture and building community is an integral part of building bridges of understanding and acceptance. Chantal is a compassionate woman, who believes that a healthier, fairer, more sustainable Canada is possible as we make decisions for future generations to come.