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  • Rez Rules

  • My Indictment of Canada's and America's Systemic Racism Against Indigenous Peoples
  • Written by: Chief Clarence Louie
  • Narrated by: Chief Clarence Louie
  • Length: 13 hrs and 20 mins
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars (80 ratings)

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Rez Rules

Written by: Chief Clarence Louie
Narrated by: Chief Clarence Louie
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Publisher's Summary

A common-sense blueprint for what the future of First Nations should look like as told through the fascinating life and legacy of a remarkable leader.

In 1984, at the age of 24, Clarence Louie was elected Chief of the Osoyoos Indian Band in the Okanagan Valley. Nineteen elections later, Chief Louie has led his community for nearly four decades. The story of how the Osoyoos Indian Band - “The Miracle in the Desert” - transformed from a Rez that once struggled with poverty into an economically independent people is well-known. Guided by his years growing up on the Rez, Chief Louie believes that economic and business independence are key to self-sufficiency, reconciliation, and justice for First Nations people.

In Rez Rules, Chief Louie writes about his youth in Osoyoos, from early mornings working in the vineyards to playing and coaching sports and attending a largely White school in Oliver, BC. He remembers enrolling in the “Native American Studies” program at the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College in 1979 and falling in love with First Nations history. Learning about the historic significance of treaties was life-changing. He recalls his first involvement in activism: participating in a treaty bundle run across the country before embarking on a path of leadership. He and his band have worked hard to achieve economic growth and record levels of employment. Inspired by his ancestors’ working culture, and by the young people on the reserve, Chief Louie continues to work for First Nations’ self-sufficiency and independence.

Direct and passionate, Chief Louie brings together wide-ranging subjects: life on the Rez, including Rez language and humor; per capita payments; the role of elected chiefs; the devastating impact of residential schools; the need to look to culture and ceremony for governance and guidance; the use of Indigenous names and logos by professional sports teams; his love for motorcycle honor rides; and what makes a good leader. He takes aim at systemic racism and examines the relationship between First Nations and colonial Canada and the United States, and sounds a call to action for First Nations to “Indian Up!” and “never forget our past”. Offering leadership lessons on and off the Rez, this memoir describes the fascinating life and legacy of a remarkable leader and provides a common-sense blueprint for the future of First Nations communities. In it, Chief Louie writes, “Damn, I’m lucky to be an Indian!”

©2021 Chief Clarence Louie (P)2021 McClelland & Stewart
  • Unabridged Audiobook
  • Categories: History
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What the critics say

“Some people have said … there is no systemic racism in Canada. To those people I say, clearly you have not read the Indian Act. Chief Louie has spent a lifetime trying to rid Canada of such racism.” —The Rt. Hon. Brian Mulroney

“A testament to the type of no-nonsense leadership we all long to see more of nowadays.” —Chris Chelios, NHL Hall of Fame defenseman and former Chicago Blackhawks captain

“We all want to see reconciliation. Chief Louie wants it too; here’s his plan.” —Peter Mansbridge, former chief correspondent, CBC News

What listeners say about Rez Rules

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Outstanding!!!

Chief Clarence Louis has a no holds bar attitude and says it like it is. His words make so much sense and I truly respect his message of ‘Indianing Up!’. I wish all Leaders were like him so that instead of moving at a snails pace to get ahead, our next generation will have a stronger foot hold in First Nations country! Chief Clarence Louis is my mentor and my hero. Thank you for setting the bar in how our First Nation Leaders should be!

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Leadership Lessons

Thank you, Chief Clarence Louie!

How great it is to listen and learn from you on demand.

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Down to earth, informative, and helpful

I enjoyed listening to this audiobook. I particularly appreciated that Chief Clarence Louie read his book himself, as it gave me a stronger sense of his message. Good values are emphasized throughout the book along with real examples that put them into action. Chief Clarence’s message is down to earth, informative, and helpful to all people, whether you are Indigenous or not.

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Integrity

Integrity is how I would describe Chief Clarence Louis. His narrative was captivating and authentic. Would highly recommend.

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Indian Up

I enjoyed this book as I can relate to much of Chief Clarence Louis thinking process. I liked the “Indian Up” quote and have now added it to my language. Miigwech for sharing your experience with Indigenous peoples across turtle island, it is inspiring for the next generation who are thinking about becoming advocates for their communities. I enjoyed the personal stories shared as it allows readers to know the author on a personal note rather than just professionally. And Miigwech for saying it out loud about the Rez rules that are present to this day in communities. And lastly, Miigwech for the historical timeline of events of atrocities, and triumphs of Indigenous peoples, I’m sure it is unsettling for settlers to hear, but it’s the truth.
Miigwech!

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BRAVO Chief!

A listen well worth the time, made even better in the author's own voice. A book I will re-read , share & and quote. <3<3<3

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Clarence is an amazing leader

I really enjoyed this book he is such a great story teller and full of wise advise. he's direct and gets sh!t Done. I laughed, teared up, laughed again and smiled. I'll re listen this book again any day

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I will be reading this book again and again.

I agree with 95% of what Chief Clarence Louie says. The other 5% would be a good discussion to have with him.

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Incredible!

I loved this book. I couldn't put it down. I want to learn more. Thanks.

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Everyone should read

Every Canadian should read this book. I really enjoyed the lessons, stories and perspective presented.

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