Thaioronióhte Dan David, a well-known Kanien’kehá:ka journalist who played a key role in setting up the news division of the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network, has passed away. His sister Marie David confirmed that he lost his battle with cancer on Jan. 12 at the age of 73.
Karyn Pugliese, a host and producer at APTN and a close friend and colleague of David, expressed that his death is a significant loss for the numerous Indigenous journalists he guided and supported in their careers. Pugliese described him as the “father of APTN News” and emphasized his profound impact on Indigenous journalism in Canada.
David was instrumental in establishing APTN News in 2000, originally known as InVision News, with the aim of revolutionizing the narrative surrounding Indigenous stories. His motivation stemmed from witnessing the misrepresentation of his own community of Kanehsatà:ke in mainstream media reports during the Oka Crisis in 1990, a 78-day standoff involving Kanien’kehá:ka protesters, Quebec police, the RCMP, and the army over disputed lands in Kanehsatà:ke.
Pugliese revealed that David, who was reporting for CBC at the time, was prevented from covering the conflict due to perceived bias, despite his deep connections and insights. His frustration with mainstream media perpetuating stereotypes about Indigenous peoples fueled his commitment to truthful and inclusive journalism.
Following his experiences in post-apartheid South Africa, where he assisted in launching the South African Broadcasting Corporation, David acquired the expertise needed to establish APTN’s news department. Pugliese highlighted David’s dedication to training journalists and his belief that journalism should serve the public interest.
Known for his expertise and humor, David mentored reporters with compassion and humility. He valued every individual’s input in the newsroom and was regarded as an approachable and humble leader. Throughout his nearly 50-year career, David held various roles, including chair of diversity at Toronto Metropolitan University and a teaching position at the University of Toronto.
Marie David shared that Dan, being the third eldest among eight siblings, devoted his final years to fundraising for cancer research through cycling. His passing has deeply impacted many, with numerous individuals expressing gratitude for his mentorship and contributions to their professional growth.