Musician Laura Vinson contemplates the richness of her family’s Indigenous heritage and culture and the ways her culture and art bring healing. She meets Raymond Gladue, an award-winning dancer from the Edmonton Métis Dancers. He tells her his story of the car accident that killed his brother, also a champion dancer, and left Raymond in a wheelchair. However; because of a promise he made to his brother’s memory he miraculously recovered to be a champion jigger. Sissy Thiessen Kootenayoo suffered a severe concussion and brain injury but is now a jingle dancer, a traditional art form used for healing. She describes the traditions of her regalia, and reads her spoken word piece about Indigenous women, “Invisible”. She uses her bold and powerful voice to educate.

Awakeners is a 6-part series with nationally acclaimed Indigenous singer-songwriter Laura Vinson. She is on a personal journey to connect with extraordinary Indigenous artists with disabilities. Their spirit-born work is awakening the beauty of Indigenous people to all who see, hear, and feel their art. Louis Riel’s prophecy is coming to pass! The Indigenous artists are The Awakeners!

Also available in French: Une culture de guérison