We find ourselves in a fortunate position to have a wealth and depth of Indigenous culture here in our city. Edmonton is home to the second largest Indigenous population in a metropolis in the country, and the largest community in Alberta. Although each person’s story is special and meaningful, here are just a few that we’ve profiled over the years.
Inspired by the Idle No More movement in 2012, cousins Kris Harper and Marek Tyler created nêhiyawak, a post-rock band that combines traditional Indigenous sounds with modern experimentation.
Outspoken, fierce and charismatic, we met with Indigenous beauty queen/actor/model/activist/Amazing Race finalist Ashley Callingbull to discuss how she used her new-found celebrity to fight for change.
Even from the sets of The Revenant and Wonder Woman, actor and stuntman Eugene Brave Rock never forgot his roots, nor his grandmother’s advice to “take [his] gifts and live his life.”
Richard Mirasty’s experiences as a child in the foster care system, along with witnessing the sad fates of other Indigenous youth growing up, inspired him to a career in law to help reduce the disproportionate number of incarcerated Indigenous people.
Born only 14 months apart, Lewis and Lorne Cardinal were both destined for public greatness – one as a consultant, community activist and former NDP candidate, and the other as part of one of Canada’s most successful comedy series.
