347: The Gay Purge in Canada Part 1: The 1940’s-1960’s
Episode 347: In this episode, part one of two, thanks to Mathew’s intrepid and unflinching research, we’re peeling back the layers on one of the most harrowing chapters in Canadian history: the Gay Purge.
Officially, the campaign targeted LGBTQ+ individuals as part of a national security effort—citing their supposed susceptibility to blackmail by Soviet agents – But the real story is that these purges were driven more by institutional homophobia cloaked in Cold War fears and rhetoric than by legitimate security concerns. The blackmail excuse became a convenient cover for the government’s systemic discrimination, allowing a deeply entrenched homophobia to flourish unchecked.
This campaign stretched from the 1950s through to the 1990s, destroying lives, careers, and communities along the way. We’ll explore the origins of this agenda, how it escalated, and look at a few of the stories of individuals affected.
Sources:
Peyton V. Lyon, The Loyalties of E. Herbert Norman: A Report Prepared for External Affairs and International Trade Canada, March 18, 1990 (Ottawa: 1990).
Bowen, Roger W, Innocence Is Not Enough: The Life and Death of Herbert Norman (Vancouver: Douglas & McIntyre, 1986).
Kinsman, Gary, and Patrizia Gentile. The Canadian War on Queers: National Security as Sexual Regulation. University of British Columbia Press, 2010.
The Canadian Encyclopedia: “Canada’s Cold War Purge of 2SLGBTQ2+ from Public Service” The Canadian Encyclopedia
Village Legacy Project: “Ottawa LGBT History: The ‘Fruit Machine'” Village Legacy Project
https://definingmomentscanada.ca/all-for-9/historical-articles/lgbt-purge/#_edn3
https://ambcanada.ca/ambassadors/egerton-herbert-norman/
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346: Complex Justice: The Tragic Story of Annie Mae Pictou Aquash
Episode 346: In this episode, we look into the life and mysterious murder of Annie Mae Pictou Aquash, a prominent Indigenous activist whose story continues to haunt the corridors of justice and activism alike. During the tumultuous 1970s, her journey took her from Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia, to the heart of the American Indian Movement (AIM) in the United States, where she fought for Indigenous rights.
The mystery surrounding Annie Mae’s death is as compelling as her life. In December 1975, she disappeared and was later found deceased on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Initial reports misleadingly attributed her death to exposure, but a second autopsy revealed she had been executed with a bullet to the back of her head. This revelation raised questions about who could have orchestrated such a brutal act against someone so profoundly committed to her cause.
It took almost 30 years before the shocking truth was uncovered and the people responsible for Annie’s murder were brought to justice.
Sources:
Annie Mae Aquash (1945 – 1975)
A Warrior born… | Biography of Annie Mae
Crossing the Canada-U.S. border with a status card
9.16 The 1960s Counterculture – Canadian History: Post-Confederation
National Day of Mourning: A 1970 protest changed how Native Americans see Thanksgiving | CBC Radio
Wounded Knee Massacre | South Dakota, Occupation, History, & Legacy | Britannica
Historical Reading Room — Incident at Wounded Knee | U.S. Marshals Service
Native Americans seized Wounded Knee 50 years ago. Here’s what 1 reporter remembers
MuckRock | Annie Mae Aquash FBI Files
Annie Mae Aquash – From the US to Kurdistan: the indigenous struggle for freedom
2007 BCCA 345 (CanLII) | United States of America v. Graham | CanLII
2022 BCCA 47 (CanLII) | Graham v. Canada (Minister of Justice) | CanLII
Justice for Annie Mae Pictou Aquash Woman Warrior
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345: Particularly Cruel: The Murder of Baylee Wylie
Episode 345: In December 2015, the quiet city of Moncton, New Brunswick, was shaken to its core by a brutal crime that would leave an indelible mark on the community. Eighteen-year-old Baylee Wylie was found dead in a burned-out townhouse, the victim of a horrific murder that shocked residents and sparked a manhunt for those responsible.
Three young people who Baylee thought were his friends were ultimately charged for their roles in Wylie’s death: Marissa Shephard, 20 at the time, along with Devin Morningstar and Tyler Noel, both 18. The gruesome nature of the crime – Baylee had been tied to a chair, beaten, and stabbed approximately 200 times – sent shockwaves through Moncton.
The murder and subsequent trials captivated the region, with media coverage detailing the drug-fueled night that ended in tragedy. The community grappled with the senseless loss of a young life and the disturbing actions of the perpetrators.
In this episode, we’ll explore the events leading up to that fateful night, the impact on Baylee’s family and the wider Moncton community, and the following quest for justice. Join us as we examine one of the most notorious crimes in recent New Brunswick history.
Sources:
2017 NBQB 7 (CanLII) | R v. Morningstar | CanLII
2017 NBCA 39 (CanLII) | Morningstar v. R. | CanLII
2019 NBCA 76 (CanLII) | Shephard v. R. | CanLII
2021 NBQB 218 (CanLII) | R v Shephard | CanLII
2021 NBQB 181 (CanLII) | HMQ v. Marissa June Shephard | CanLII
Baylee Wylie Murder | News, Videos & Articles | GlobalNews
In loving memory of Baylee Wylie
Baylee Wylie – Search – Newspapers.com™
Obituary of Baylee Wylie | Fergusons Riverview Funeral Centre
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344: Buried Evidence: The Murder of Erin Chorney
Episode 344: In 2002, Brandon, Manitoba, was rocked by the disappearance of Erin Chorney, a feisty and energetic teenager with her whole life ahead of her. What began as a simple outing—Erin telling her mother she’d be back in an hour—turned into a parent’s worst nightmare when she never returned home. As days turned into weeks and weeks into months, the community of Brandon rallied around the Chorney family, desperately searching for answers.
The truth behind Erin’s disappearance would only come to light through one of Canada’s most contentious investigative techniques. You guessed it — Mister Big. The case led investigators down a dark path, culminating in a shocking confession and a grim discovery that would forever change the lives of those involved.
Join us as we explore the details of this heart-wrenching case, examining the investigation that followed, the controversial methods employed by law enforcement, and the lasting impact on a community forever changed by tragedy.
Sources:
Brandon | City, Prairie, Wheat Capital | Britannica
Canadian Encyclopedia | Brandon
Obituary for Erin Kristen Chorney
CHORNEY DARCY JAMES – Obituaries – Brandon Sun Passages
Fooled Into Giving A Full Confession | Dark Waters Of Crime | Real Crime
Undercover police sting ends with arrest of shocked murder suspect
Jun 18, 2005, page 4 – Nanaimo Daily News at Newspapers.com
Oct 08, 2006, page 22 – News-Press at Newspapers.com
Girlfriend-killer loses appeal
Jun 2014: Killer can’t visit dying relative
Brandon man convicted of murdering Erin Chorney applying for parole under faint-hope clause
Apr 2021: Murder ‘devastated’ Chorney family
To the Grave: Inside a Spectacular RCMP Sting by Mike McIntyre
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343: Remembrance Day 2024: More Badass Canadians at War
Episode 343: This is our special Remembrance Day episode. Each year on November 11, Canadians pause to remember the sacrifices made by those who served in the armed forces, defending our country and our allies with incredible courage and resolve.
Last year, we shared the story of one remarkable Canadian soldier, Leo Major. Leo was a scout and sniper who, against all odds, single-handedly liberated the Dutch town of Zwolle in 1945. Moving under cover of darkness, he confused and intimidated German forces through a series of daring attacks, leading them to believe an entire Allied battalion was upon them. His incredible bravery and tactical genius not only saved the town but established him as a true legend.
This year, we’ll explore the stories of several more incredible Canadians who, like Leo, faced impossible odds with courage, ingenuity, and the unbreakable Canadian spirit. These people faced unimaginable odds, fought for our freedom and justice, and showed the world the strength of the Canadian spirit. Join us as we honour and remember these heroes—names that deserve a place in history and our hearts.
Sources:
Francis Pegahmagabow – Veterans Affairs Canada
PEGAHMAGABOW, FRANCIS – War Records
Francis Pegahmagabow National Historic Person (1889-1952)
Chief Francis Pegahmagabow, 1889-1952
Francis Pegahmagabow Monument – Veterans Affairs Canada
Ernest “Smokey” Smith – Record Detail | New Westminster Museum
Ernest Alvia Smith | Canada.ca
Sergeant (Ret’d) Ernest “Smokey” Smith, VC – Veterans Affairs Canada
Ernest ‘Smoky’ Smith: ‘I was never afraid to shoot’ | Macleans
Tommy Prince | Legion Magazine
Prince of Death: Canada’s Indigenous war hero | Legion Magazine
Tommy Prince | The Canadian Encyclopedia
Tommy Prince – Veterans Affairs Canada
NATIONAL INDIGENOUS HISTORY MONTH: Tommy Prince
Bizarre But True Facts: Canada in WWII
‘If you don’t get us out of here, we’re all going to die’: Heroes Among Us
The Canadian hero whose leadership prevented countless casualties in Afghanistan
History-April 27 1945: The crazy trio who helped a starving war-torn Holland
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342: Still on the Run: The Murder of Krystal Senyk
Episode 342: In the quiet Yukon community of Carcross, a chilling tragedy unfolded on March 1st, 1992, forever changing the lives of those involved and leaving a lasting impact on the region. Krystal Nicole Senyk, a twenty-nine-year-old with her whole life ahead of her, was found dead in the doorway of her cabin, the victim of a brutal murder.
The prime suspect in this heinous crime was Ronald Jeffrey Bax, the husband of Krystal’s friend Lynn. In the hours between Krystal’s murder and the discovery of her body, Bax, charged with murder in absentia, vanished without a trace, setting in motion a decades-long search for justice.
This case, which has haunted the Yukon for over 30 years, is a tale of tragedy, mystery, and the relentless pursuit of truth. Despite the passage of time, Ronald Bax has never been found, leaving authorities, Krystal’s family and the community with unanswered questions and a continuing need for closure.
Sources:
Wanted by the RCMP: Ronald Jeffrey Bax | Royal Canadian Mounted Police
WhatHappenedToRonBax.com | A Yukon mystery
I Got a Name: The Murder of Krystal Senyk
Woman is shot; RCMP hunt for murder suspect
International Arm Wrestling Results 1990
May 19, 1989, page 3 – Whitehorse Daily Star at Newspapers.com
Mar 04, 1992, page 1 – Whitehorse Daily Star at Newspapers.com
Mar 05, 1992, page 1 – Whitehorse Daily Star at Newspapers.com
Mar 06, 1992, page 9 – The Standard at Newspapers.com
Mar 06, 1992, page 15 – The Province at Newspapers.com
Nov 13, 1992, page 1 – Whitehorse Daily Star at Newspapers.com
Nov 13, 1992, page 2 – Whitehorse Daily Star at Newspapers.com
Mar 02, 1993, page 3 – Whitehorse Daily Star at Newspapers.com
Nov 20, 1995, page 1 – Whitehorse Daily Star at Newspapers.com
Oct 18, 2000, page 46 – Whitehorse Daily Star at Newspapers.com
Remember Krystal, remember them all
‘A mother should never have to go through this’
Writer at Dawson City residency comes full-circle on Yukon true crime story
Author delves into the life and tragic death of Krystal Senyk | CBC News
Transcript: Crime Story, Episode 20 | CBC Radio
Krystal Nicole Senyk (1962-1992)
https://destinationcarcross.ca/
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341: Halloween Road Trip: Hauntings, Ghosts and Poltergeists Around the World
Episode 341: Welcome to a very special Halloween edition of Dark Poutine. This year, we’re also celebrating our seventh anniversary! Over the years, we’ve explored the darkest corners of Canadian crime and history, but tonight, we’re widening the lens to take you on a ghostly journey around the world. In the spirit of the spookiest time of year, we’ll dive into the eerie world of hauntings, ghosts and, of course, poltergeists—those noisy, mischievous spirits that have haunted homes, thrown objects, and terrified families across different cultures for centuries. Buckle up for a global tour of unsettling encounters and unexplained phenomena that have left their mark in folklore, history, and, for some, reality. Get ready to be both intrigued and chilled to the bone!
Sources:
Society for Psychical Research
Difference Between Ghost and Poltergeist
Ghosts, poltergeists, and demons: What’s the difference?
The Ghost Glossary: The Difference Between Ghosts, Ghouls, Goblins, And More
Hauntings and Poltergeists | SPR
The Great Amherst Mystery, 1888
Mary Ellen Fire Spook – An Antigonish Haunting
The Hanging Cage That Held An Infamous Québec Murderess
Who is Marie-Josephte Corriveau?
The “Stone Tape Theory” of hauntings: A geological perspective
Family Ghosts: Bringing Back the Dead (Part II)
Reddit Users Share Their Experiences with the Paranormal
From the Ghosts community on Reddit
The Enfield Poltergeist | Psi Encyclopedia
This House Is Haunted: The Investigation of the Enfield Poltergeist by Guy Lyon Playfair
The Enfield Poltergeist Tapes by Melvyn J Willin
Watch The Enfield Poltergeist – Apple TV+ (CA)
‘The Enfield Poltergeist’: New doc explores the creepy, infamous haunting – National
Bill Wilkins — Investigation and Evidence
Enfield Poltergeist Real Voice Recordings (Bill) | YouTube
The Enfield Poltergeist RARE BBC FOOTAGE | YouTube
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340: Satanic Panic: A Canadian Export
Episode 340: In the early 1980s, a wave of fear with its origins in Canada, swept across North America, igniting what would become known as the Satanic Panic. This moral hysteria, fueled by sensationalized media reports and dubious claims of widespread satanic ritual abuse, had its roots in a controversial book published in 1980 titled “Michelle Remembers.”
As the panic spread, it manifested in several high-profile cases across Canada. One of the most notorious incidents occurred in Martensville, Saskatchewan, where unfounded allegations of ritual abuse at a local daycare center led to multiple arrests and a community torn apart by suspicion and fear. Other cases emerged in various provinces, each feeding into the growing narrative of a vast, underground network of satanic cults preying on innocent children.
Sources:
Michelle Remembers by Smith, Michelle | Internet Archive
Michelle Remembers — fiction disguised as fact
Devil Worship Exposing Satan’s Underground [Geraldo Rivera] [1988] [VHS] | YouTube
[VHS] Law Enforcement Guide to Satanic Cults – (1994) | YouTube
UNCOVER SEASON 6- SATANIC PANIC: Transcripts | Listen | CBC Radio
Hell to pay: Revisiting the Martensville satanic sex scandal (2003) – The Fifth Estate | YouTube
1995 CanLII 4037 (SK CA) | R. v. Sterling | CanLII
2003 SKQB 559 (CanLII) | K. v. Miazga | CanLII
2007 SKCA 57 (CanLII) | Kvello v. Miazga | CanLII
Aug 12, 1990, page 8 – The Independent at Newspapers.com
Did Satanic Panic Influence The West Memphis Three Case? | Oxygen Official Site
West Memphis Three: What You Should Know About Their Wrongful Conviction
The Strange Origins of the Satanic Panic | CBC Arts
Believe the Children: Re-Reading the Satanic Panic Through Michelle Remembers
How a doctor and his patient sparked a global ‘Satanic Panic’
It’s Time to Revisit the Satanic Panic | NYT
Satanic panic: Documentary takes a new look at Michelle Remembers book
America’s Satanic Panic Returns — This Time Through QAnon
We Believe the Children: A Moral Panic in the 1980s | Amazon
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BONUS. EPISODE — Cybercrime in Canada: Staying Safe Online
This bonus episode of Dark Poutine is brought to you by MasterCard. In this special episode, we’re exploring a growing threat hitting more close to home than ever—cybercrime. We’ve dived deep into all sorts of dark tales before, but this one is a bit different because it’s happening right now, affecting people and businesses across Canada.
Sources:
Mastercard Trust Centre | Cybersecurity Solutions for Every Business
webcrunchers.com | Wayback Machine
Mafiaboy’s story points to Net weaknesses
Meet Mafiaboy, The ‘Bratty Kid’ Who Took Down The Internet
‘Mafiaboy’ breaks silence, paints ‘portrait of a hacker’ | CNN
Canadian Centre for Cyber Security
Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada | FinTRAC
Cyber attacks in Canada | Konbriefing.com
Why Canada has so many cyberattacks—and why we’re all at risk | MacLeans
Cyber attacks are getting easier, experts warn after 3rd federal incident | GlobalNews National
Equifax hacked: Canadians among those exposed by credit monitoring company’s data breach – National
LifeLabs hack: What Canadians need to know about the health data breach | GlobalNews
Privacy breach alerts and information | Province of NS
Ticketmaster Data Security Incident
Cyber security and cybercrime challenges of Canadian businesses, 2017
The Daily — Impact of cybercrime on Canadian businesses, 2021
Canadian Small Business Cybersecurity Survival Guide – Canadian Chamber of Commerce
Nearly half of small businesses have experienced random cyberattacks in the past year | CFIB
Ransomware/ Cyber Incident | Toronto Zoo
Baseline cyber threat assessment: Cybercrime – Canadian Centre for Cyber Security
Cyber Attacks in Canada 2023: A Year in Review
Data Responsibility & Governance Practices | Personal Data Security
Cybercrime: an overview of incidents and issues in Canada | RCMP
Significant Cyber Incidents | Strategic Technologies Program | CSIS
National Cyber Threat Assessment 2023-2024 | Canadian Centre for Cyber Security
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339: BC’s Last Man Hanged — The Tale of Leo Mantha
On the night of September 6, 1958, Aaron “Bud’ Jenkins was stabbed to death as he slept in his barracks at the Naval base in Esquimalt on Vancouver Island here in British Columbia. A man named Leo Mantha confessed to the crime, was tried, found guilty of 1st-degree murder, and executed in 1959. He was the last person ever to be executed in British Columbia and the 3rd last to be executed in Canada. At the time, executions were rare, and most Canadian death penalty verdicts were commuted to life in prison. After revisiting the crime, the consensus among experts today is that anyone else would have been charged with manslaughter or 2nd-degree murder, and not 1st-degree murder. So why do Leo Mantha hang? The fact that Leo Mantha was gay was the only factor that made him stand out at the time of the crime. Was his a hanging by homophobia?
Sources:
https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/506263024/
https://xtramagazine.com/power/leo-manthas-last-gasp-60415
https://www.nacdl.org/Content/Race-and-the-Death-Penalty
https://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/rp-pr/jr/lgbtq/background-contexte.html
https://www.westerncriminology.org/documents/WCR/v08n2/weinrath.pdf
https://www.statista.com/topics/2943/aboriginal-crime-and-justice-in-canada/#topicOverview
https://www.nathaniel.ca/2014/05/07/leo-manthas-last-gasp/
https://bcanuntoldhistory.knowledge.ca/1960/homosexuality-decriminalized
https://globalnews.ca/news/5238533/leo-mantha-last-bc-execution/
https://www.nathaniel.ca/2009/05/03/bcs-last-execution/
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