In part two, Eva Dusome deepens the conversation by reflecting on their experiences as a Two-Spirit, non-binary Anishinaabe person navigating colonial systems, education, and justice. Eva shares how Indigenous teachings shape their own personal values, and approaches to leadership and mentorship, and how decolonization begins with reconnecting to land and self. Eva speaks candidly about being "funneled" into womanhood, finding power in “Indigequeer” identity, and guiding others toward transformative change. Whether in classrooms or government spaces, Eva’s work centers healing, courage, and community—reminding us that the ideas once seen as radical often become the blueprint for a more just future. (00:08:39) Discovering Two-Spirit Identity and Finding Community (00:11:31) Belonging in Two Worlds (00:15:19) Balancing Roles: Corrections and College Teaching (00:17:20) Career Advice for Early and Mid-Career Professionals (00:20:37) 20 Seconds of Insane Courage (00:23:01) Living by the Seven Sacred Teachings
In this two-part episode, Eva Dusome (she/they), Senior Staff Development Officer at Solicitor General, Instructor with Six Nations Polytechnic, and 2021 recipient of the Corrections Exemplary Service Medal, shares an inspiring and deeply personal journey through the intersecting worlds of corrections, identity, and systemic change.
In part one, Eva reflects on their 19-year career in Ontario’s correctional system, recounting how chance attendance at an information session led to their passion for working with incarcerated populations. Eva explores how trauma, poverty, and systemic inequities contribute to criminalization, emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation, reintegration, and humanizing support.
In part two, Eva delves into their identity as a Two-Spirit, non-binary Anishinaabe person, and how Indigenous teachings, land-based wisdom, and authenticity inform their own personal approach to leadership and advocacy. Eva shares their experience navigating colonial structures, both personally and professionally, and offers powerful insights on mentorship, courage, and change-making.
Throughout this powerful episode, Eva centers compassion, connection, and decolonization—challenging us to rethink justice and community through an Indigenous and queer lens.