A Conversation With Courtney Copoc-Hopkins

Let'st Talk With Coach Che Marville

Che had the privilege of speaking to Courtney Copoc-Hopkins; she is a proud Lenape person of the Delaware Nation (Eelünaapéewi Lahkéewiit), Turtle Clan the Hopkins family. Courtney is a first-generation university graduate, an intergenerational cycle-breaker, traveller, thrill-seeker, and unapologetic dreamer. As an intuitive urban Indigenous woman, Courtney shares a deep-rooted passion for strengthening the voices of her community. For many years she struggled with understanding her identity in the predominantly white community of Oakville, Ontario, where she grew up. Through boldness and a process of forgiveness, it helped her reconnect with her father, paternal grandmother, and extended family. She lives and works in British Columbia and has dedicated her life to listening deeply to native peoples' truth, education, and empowerment through action. Courtney speaks openly about her relationship with her mother and father and the impact of their struggles on her identity. She has lived in two worlds, growing up in a privileged community yet disenfranchised by economics and race. And recently, Courtney was one of eleven emerging leaders from across Canada to share her story at the Raven's Institutes Series -Raven's Speak. She is committed to positivity, love and being the person she needed when she was a child. Take a listen to this episode, tell us what you think and share the show.