This recording features an interview with Father Rene Fumoleau, OMI, during which he discusses his initial journey into the Canadian north from his hometown in France, his life in Fort Good Hope between 1953-1959, and his life in Fort Franklin (Deline) in 1960, where he witnessed the rise of the fishing industry and the Great Bear Cooperative. He then discusses his arrival in Yellowknife in 1970. Mr. Fumoleau also reflects upon the arrival of the territorial government in Yellowknife, and the governing of aboriginal people. He also speaks about writing his book, As Long As This Land Shall Last, including how the idea came about and conducting research for the work. He discusses the conditions of life for the Dene people between 1950 to 1970, and decolonization and liberation following the end of World War II. He considers religious oppression and the spiritual tradition of the Dene people as well as the difference between spirituality and religion.
In the second segment of the audio recording, Father Rene Fumoleau continues to discuss traditional Dene spirituality and western religion, and his vision of religion for the Dene people. He also considers changes in his own personal theology following his time spent in the north. He shares his thoughts on the visit of Pope John Paul II to Fort Simpson. He discusses his experience teaching the history of the Dene people and the production of the film I Was Born Here. He also discusses his collaboration with the Dene people on the publication of the book Deneh Deh and working in fixed mediums such as films with communities that have strong oral traditions. He reflects on broadcasting in the north of changes in broadcasting services. He also voices his views on Land Claims and aboriginal rights, and related federal policies.