Tastawiyniwak, Sspomitapi, Anirniq – when confronted with these unfamiliar word formations, frustration and debate can arise. Especially, as the City of Edmonton municipal wards were redrawn and subsequently changed from numbers to Indigenous names. Working alongside pipikwan pêhtâkwan, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community members, we set out to combat that frustration through a 12 part video series and supplementary social media graphics.

The Indigenous Ward Naming Knowledge Committee was made up of 17 women from First Nations in Treaty No. 6,7,8, as well as Metis and Inuit representatives. Inspired by these women and the history they shared, we felt it was important to hear the stories in the unique tone and cadence of their voice. We then crafted visual and audio accompaniments to bring this important history to life.