The Evening Plenary Discourse & Dessert returns this year in tribute to its esteemed founder, Dr. Jeanne C. Sinkford, an internationally recognized leader, trailblazer and distinguished figure in academic dentistry. Established more than 33 years ago, the event was designed to foster exposure to innovative ideas and influential role models who employ “big picture” strategies to advance opportunity and equity for all—particularly in supporting the careers of women and individuals underrepresented in academic dentistry.
Past distinguished speakers have included former U.S. Secretary of Energy Hazel O’Leary, Lynn Smith of the Supreme Court of British Columbia, former U.S. Surgeons General Jocelyn Elders and Regina M. Benjamin and orator and author Patricia Russell-McCloud.
This year’s featured guest is acclaimed Canadian actor and activist Tantoo Cardinal. With a career spanning five decades, Cardinal has received numerous awards and honors and has amassed more than 120 film, television and theatre credits. Her work includes the Academy Award–winning film Dances with Wolves; the television series Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman; Westworld; and New Amsterdam. A Cree and Métis descendant, Cardinal has broken significant ground in advancing authentic on-screen representation of Indigenous peoples. She is also an outspoken environmental advocate, drawing upon her lived experience witnessing environmental changes that directly affect Indigenous lands and communities.
Learning Objectives:
Explain how increased visibility of Indigenous peoples in media has challenged long-standing stereotypes of Indigenous women in contemporary culture.
Describe how advocacy efforts connect environmental degradation to the physical and psychological health of Indigenous women and their communities.
Examine the impact of historical trauma on mental health and processes of cultural reclamation.
