In this presentation, Jenny Kay Dupuis shares her personal journey of using literature and art to break the silence and shed light on critical issues related to Indigenous experiences that have deeply impacted her and the community around her. Drawing from her bestselling children’s books, I Am Not a Number and Heart Berry Bling, she reflects on how storytelling can serve as a powerful tool for truth-telling, healing, and empowerment.

Jenny Kay offers insights into what inspired and motivated her to create I Am Not a Number, a story written about the residential school system, and expands on her latest book, Heart Berry Bling, which reveals the experiences faced by First Nations women and children under the Indian Act. Heart Berry Bling reflects the lived realities of thousands—including her own—and shares teachings about the strawberry, while expressing her views on Indigenous joy and the importance of cultural continuity. She will also discuss how Indigenous literature, along with artwork, can be meaningfully used in a variety of spaces—such as educational settings, libraries, community spaces, and homes—to foster understanding and promote dialogue.

Throughout her talk, Jenny Kay emphasizes the importance of teaching, telling, and hearing difficult stories. She explores how these narratives can help build a culture rooted in empowerment, respect, trust, and innovation.

There will be a book signing following the program. Our friends from Perfect Books will be on hand to sell books.