Michelle Chubb: The Indigenous Baddie Educating the World on Social Media

In the vibrant, fast-paced world of social media Michelle Chubb, also known by her online moniker "Indigenous Baddie," has carved a unique niche. With a substantial following on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, Michelle isn't just another influencer; she is a powerful voice for Indigenous communities, sharing their stories, challenges, and triumphs with a global audience. Balancing her role as an educator with the demands of motherhood, Michelle has become an inspiring figure for many.

Michelle is a Nehinaw, or Swampy Cree, member of Bunibonibee Cree Nation, also known as Oxford House, located north of Winnipeg, Manitoba. Through the various platforms, where she reaches over half a million followers, she shares her culture, talks about the history of Canada while tackling stereotypes, and encourages others to reconnect with their roots.

A Glimpse into Indigenous Life

Michelle Chubb's content is a rich tapestry of her cultural heritage. Her TikTok and Instagram posts offer a window into the daily life, traditions, and issues facing Indigenous people. From traditional ‘jingle dress’ dances and clothing to language and customs, she brings to light the beauty and richness of her culture, often overshadowed or misunderstood in mainstream media. Through her videos, she educates her followers about the significance of various rituals, the history behind traditional practices, and the contemporary relevance of Indigenous culture.

Addressing Critical Issues

Michelle uses her platforms to address pressing issues that affect Indigenous communities. She speaks passionately about topics such as clean water, the missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG) crisis, the importance of land rights, and the ongoing struggles against systemic racism and discrimination. In an interview with Bon Look she tells the interviewer: “I’ve spoken about many issues … and recently the discovery of mass graves at former residential schools across Canada. It’s important to know these things are not in the past, they are happening today. Indigenous people were almost wiped off the land and we had to fight and survive to still be here. There is also ongoing racism and discrimination towards Indigenous people, and Canadians really need to recognize that. Things are changing very slowly and that’s why awareness, representation, and education are so important. Enough is enough.”[i]

The Power of Storytelling

Storytelling is at the heart of Indigenous cultures, and Michelle leverages this powerful tool to connect with her audience. Her storytelling isn't confined to the past; it includes contemporary stories of resilience, innovation, and hope. By sharing her personal journey and the experiences of others in her community, she creates a narrative that is both informative and deeply moving. This approach not only educates but also builds empathy and a sense of shared humanity.

When asked why she wanted to share her passions via social media Michelle told Bon Look:

“Growing up, there wasn’t much inspiration or representation for Indigenous people in anything mainstream, or in anything, really. I went through a rough time when I was young, and my younger self couldn’t express herself the way she wanted to. I felt stuck. I lost my grandfather a decade ago and that was a moment where I realized I wanted to remain connected to my culture, to my elders, and I wanted to share that ancestral knowledge, while also healing myself and learning more about my own People's traditions.”[ii]

Indigenous TikTokers such as Sherry McKay and Theland Kicknosway as well as the Indigenous activists who campaigned against the Coastal GasLink pipeline in Wet'suwet'en Territory made Michelle want to become a part of the movement.

Balancing Motherhood and Advocacy

One of the most compelling aspects of Michelle's online presence is her role as a mother. She seamlessly integrates her advocacy with her responsibilities as a parent, often featuring her children in her posts. This inclusion underscores the importance of passing down cultural knowledge and traditions to the next generation. It also highlights the everyday realities and joys of parenting within the context of Indigenous life.

A Community Builder

Michelle Chubb's influence extends beyond her immediate followers. She has built a community of people who are not only interested in learning about Indigenous culture but are also motivated to support and advocate for Indigenous rights. Her platforms serve as a space for dialogue, education, and solidarity, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds with a common goal of understanding and respecting Indigenous ways of life.

Impact and Recognition

Michelle's work has not gone unnoticed. She has also been featured in TeenVogue, HuffPost, Refinery29 Canada, Pop Sugar, Fashion Canada and was nominated Top 25 Women of Influence of 2021. Her growing influence is a testament to the power of social media as a tool for social change and education. By sharing her truth and amplifying the voices of her community, Michelle Chubb is making a significant impact on how Indigenous issues are perceived and addressed worldwide.

[i] https://www.bonlook.ca/blogs/blog/in-conversation-with-michelle-chubb

[ii]Ibid