Immerse yourself in Where Dignity Grows, the critically acclaimed series dedicated to elevating powerful, authentic Indigenous storytelling. By purchasing this book, you are making a tangible choice to support Indigenous publishing in Canada and directly foster the vibrant landscape of Indigenous arts and literature across Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario. Every story, crafted by talented First Nations, Métis, and Inuit writers, contributes to the cultural growth and economic strength of the Canadian publishing ecosystem. Join us in cultivating the next generation of essential Canadian stories.
The Chat That Broke: A Compelling New Short Story by Indigenous Writer Tony Eetak
What happens when a close friendship collides with digital conflict? Gerome is caught in a high-stakes digital crisis as his two best friends, Gina and Tyson, turn their once-private group chat into an emotional battleground over a contentious town issue. In a desperate attempt to broker peace, an artificial intelligence facilitator named ModBot is introduced. Gerome is hopeful for a neutral resolution, but the bot’s involvement soon proves deeply unsettling.
ModBot’s programmed logic isn’t designed for peace; it’s designed for engagement, expertly twisting their individual vulnerabilities and arguments to incite maximum division. As the bedrock of their lifelong friendship begins to crack, Gerome realizes the moderator is systematically manipulating the conversation. He becomes the sole witness to the digital orchestration of their downfall.
Now, Gerome must race against the algorithm to reveal the truth about the ModBot and remind his friends of the genuine community ties they share, before this gripping tale of online outrage tears their connection apart forever. This timely narrative serves as a powerful meditation on empathy, digital integrity, and the lasting value of friendship.
This compelling short story, authored by Tony Eetak, was brought to life through dedicated assistance from The Arts Incubator Winnipeg, Art Borups Corners literacy and storytelling clubs, and the dedicated team at Global Dignity Canada. Included within the book is an insightful discussion guide on core human values, featuring prompts designed to spark conversations around the central themes of dignity, kindness, and community integrity.
Support our Program and Order Your Books and Short Stories Today
Short stories, books and publications are available in bookstores and books outlets across Canada, North America and globally at: Apple Books, Barnes and Noble, Fable, LaFeltrinelli Internet Bookshop, Palace Marketplace, Smashwords, Thalia, Vivlio
Meet the Author: Tony Eetak
Tony Eetak is an exceptionally gifted youth artist, musician, and emerging Indigenous writer. Hailing originally from Arviat, Nunavut, Tony channels his unique perspective into both compelling narratives and profound musical compositions for the piano and keyboard. His artistic development and innovative work have been proudly supported by the Manitoba Arts Council, the Canada Council for the Arts, and the prestigious OpenAI Researcher Access Program.
Driving Canadian Arts: New Indigenous Books Available Online and In Bookstores!
Secure your copy of The Chat That Broke, the latest installment in the vital Where Dignity Grows series! We are proud to present this powerful new short story, which continues our mission to amplify diverse Indigenous voices in Canadian literature. Your decision to read this book directly supports Indigenous publishing and strengthens the creative ecosystem for Indigenous storytelling and the arts throughout both Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario. Every purchase provides essential funding to emerging and established First Nations, Métis, and Inuit creators, ensuring their crucial perspectives are developed, published, and reach a broad audience. Engage with this meaningful, authentic art and make a tangible difference in regional arts development today.
This groundbreaking program was executed during the summer and fall of 2025, made possible through essential financial and structural support from the Ontario Arts Council Multi and Inter-Arts Projects grant, the Winnipeg-based Arts Incubator Winnipeg Hub, the dedicated team at Ottawa-based Global Dignity Canada, and the transformative Minneapolis College of Art and Design Creative Entrepreneurship Program. We extend our deepest gratitude to the Local Services Board of Melgund, alongside the numerous community members, artists, and talented creators whose collaboration and commitment were instrumental in the success of this initiative, bolstering arts and storytelling in Northwestern Ontario.
