INTERVIEW – “Queen of the Oil Patch” begins her reign on APTN

When asked to do an interview concerning a new reality TV show about a Two-Spirited First Nations businessman/entertainer working in the oil patch, I jumped at the chance. As a Status Indian and a writer, I know Canada itself has a long way to go to enact the 94 "calls to action" from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, yet lately I find there’s a lot more positive stories about individuals forging their own path as proud First Nation citizens.

This brings us to a new reality TV show now available on APTN (Aboriginal Peoples Television Network) - Queen of the Oil Patch starring Massey Whiteknife. Massey is a small business owner working in the oil industry up in the Wood Buffalo District of Northern Alberta, he’s a member of the Mikisew Cree First Nation, and he is also known as Iceis Rain. She performed at Edmonton Pride, she speaks up against bullying, she performs as a female fancy dancer, she’s got an album out on Spotify, and she was nominated at the 2014 Aboriginal People’s Choice Music Awards in several categories: Aboriginal Songwriter of the year, Best music video, Single of the year, Best Rock CD and Best New Artist.

Queen of the Oil Patch explores many themes such as identity, bullying, Alberta’s oil patch, First Nations culture, suicide, healing and a unique approach to sexuality. Massey/Iceis is a Two-Spirited individual; which is different than whatever labels you have in your head: "I don’t want to say that I’m transgender...