A gracious, generous and fair-minded comment, Mr. Kinew. Thank you. 

One distinction I would make however is that Boyden is not merely claiming a place in the circle, asserting his heritage and nothing more. Unlike the self-proclaimed "Crazy Horse" of Mr Kinew's story, he has not just barged in and started dancing.  Boyden has earned his place by chronicling consistently the First Nations' experience and shining an eloquent light where many would not have looked if not for his efforts. Doubtless there will be an ongoing chorus who question the authenticity of Boyden's work based on his "lived experience" - or lack thereof - of being First Nations. But if Boyden is not First Nations he should be embraced as such. His powerful words have done more to promote aboriginal issues and awareness than those of all his detractors put together.