The Ihtsitomaniista’po’tako’p (Working Together) project is a partnership between Ninastako Cultural Centre and Lethbridge Polytechnic. We are studying Indigenous-specific misinformation, which is false, misleading, or inaccurate information about Indigenous Peoples, cultures, histories, and communities. We want to better understand how this misinformation spreads, how it affects people and communities, and how Indigenous knowledge, stories, language, and digital media can help address it.

Community members, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, educators, content creators, and members of the public all have important perspectives to share. Your experiences and knowledge can help us create and evaluate digital tools designed to challenge misinformation and promote understanding.

Speakers: Kris Hodgson-Bright, MA, and Dr. Kirsten Fantasia, PhD, Lethbridge Polytechnic

Kris Hodgson-Bright is an instructor in the Digital Communications and Media program and Multimedia Production program where he has taught the past 14 years. Completing his master’s degree in Immersive Storytelling (2017) from the University of Alberta in the Communication and Technology program (MACT) kickstarted applied research opportunities at Lethbridge Polytechnic. This exciting research applies to the ever-evolving world of journalism and its adjustments to a new medium. He is excited about the future of immersive storytelling and its potential to create empathy in audiences.

Dr. Kirsten Fantazir is the President’s Applied Research Chair in Public Safety at Lethbridge Polytechnic and a faculty member in the School of Justice Studies. She holds a PhD in Psychology with a focus on technology and learning in criminal justice contexts, along with a Master of Education in Distance Education, a Bachelor of Education, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Sociology, and Anthropology, and a General Studies diploma from Lethbridge Polytechnic. Fantazir’s current research includes reintegration of marginalized populations through art-based practices, technology?facilitated gender?based violence among youth, virtual-reality assessment of police applicants, and post?traumatic stress injuries in public safety professionals. Her work is grounded in strong community collaboration, evidence?informed practice, and meaningful partnerships with Indigenous organizations, with a focus on generating real?world solutions that strengthen public safety organizations and the communities they serve.

Date/Time: Thursday, Nov 26, 2026. The presentation begins at 12 noon & concludes at 1 pm.

Free to attend. Donations however, are gratefully accepted.

Location: SACPA sessions are held at Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO), Atrium Dining Room, 500 - 11 Street South, Lethbridge

Lunch and Refreshments: If you like, please arrive early to patronize the LSCO cafeteria and enjoy their excellent variety of good-value food/drink options in the Atrium Dining Room before/during the session