My Privilege, My Responsibility

In September 2015, Sheila North was declared the Grand Chief of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO), the first woman elected to the position. Known as a bridge builder, North is a member of Bunibonibee Cree Nation. Norths work in advocacy journalism, communications, and economic development harnessed her passion for drawing focus to systemic racism faced by Indigenous women and girls. She is the creator of the widely used hashtag #MMIW. In her memoir, Sheila North shares the stories of the events that shaped her, and the violence that nearly stood in the way of her achieving her dreams. Through perseverance and resilience, she not only survived, she flourished.

"Sheila's inspiring book is full of consistent optimism through her journey of more tougher circumstances than a young person should be presented with. Upon conclusion, the reader truly understands how each of us are a wiser composition of all our life experiences and that success is a complex result spurred on from turbulent adventures." -- Nick Logan, GlobalNews "My Privilege, My Responsibility is a deeply moving, heartbreaking, empowering and dynamic memoir. Sheila North's work as a journalist, an activist and a leader is awe inspiring. It is an important book to read for all Canadians who seek a deeper understanding of the effects that colonization, systemic racism and the generations of malicious government policies have on the indigenous peoples of Canada. It is a story of hope, beauty, love of family and community. Sheila North's personal journey is an inspiring lesson in strength, kindness, determination and true leadership. " -- Gabrielle Miller, star of Corner Gas "Most importantly, My Privilege, My Responsibility is an eloquently detailed experience of the life of an Indigenous woman -- a story desperately lacking in our current popular culture." -- The Manitoban "My Privilege, My Responsibility is an engaging book with many insights into the issues Indigenous people face, told through the perspective of someone who has witnessed or experienced these struggles. " -- The Winnipeg Free Press, "Whether describing the time her car brakes were cut while she was reporting about the Winnipeg Police Service or the advances and intimidations of strangers and colleagues, North calmly shares the stories that have shaped her. Through it all, including her abusive first marriage, she has remained an "eternal optimist," one who sees the damaging social structures behind the actions and refuses to hold on to blame. Her message is simple: keep asking the difficult questions. The way forward is to leave no one behind." --Literary Review of Canada

Sheila North is the Director of Strategic Partnerships at Legacy Bowes, a former CBC and CTV journalist, and winner of a Radio Television Digital News Association Award. She is a Gemini Award nominee, and was featured in Chatelaine Magazine as one of the Top 30 Women of 2015.