As 2024 draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on a remarkable year of preserving and celebrating Edmonton’s rich cultural heritage. The dedication of staff, board members, volunteers, and community partners continue to strengthen and share the diverse stories that shape this city’s identity.
A significant development this year has been the formation of a new Community Engagement Team. Spring and fall brought a complement of talented staff members who have brought fresh energy and perspective to heritage work. Their impact has been immediate and substantial – revitalizing digital presence, launching an engaging new series of stories on the Edmonton City as Museum Project (ECAMP), and fostering meaningful connections through community events. Walking tours and exhibits have helped bring Edmonton’s heritage to life in tangible, accessible ways.
The year saw significant advances in grant programs, notably with the launch of a new grant application portal. This digital transformation creates a seamless experience for both applicants and community peer jurors, making the entire process more accessible and efficient. These programs continue to support innovative heritage projects, enabling local organizations and individuals to share stories in compelling ways.
The transformation of the Commonwealth Walkway project stands as a particular highlight, now featuring 46 powerful new stories shared by 14 First Nations, Métis, and Inuit storytellers. These voices – including Knowledge Holders, Elders, urban and reserve-based community members, men, women, and Two-Spirit and queer Indigenous storytellers – have enriched understanding of this land through poetry, visual art, and prose, paired with both archival and contemporary photography.
The stories span a remarkable range of subjects: from the profound significance of the North Saskatchewan River to the influential legacies of Indigenous women like Louise Umphreville and Victoria Belcourt Callihoo; from traditional medicinal plant teachings to important conversations about renaming; from Two-Spirit and queer Indigenous perspectives to water deities, ceremonial practices, and Cree creation stories. Working alongside community partner pipikwan pehtakwan, 98 existing Commonwealth Walkway stories have been updated to ensure accuracy and cultural sensitivity, with input from researchers and historians. The commitment to truth and reconciliation continues in telling the fuller story of this city and region.
Looking ahead to 2025 brings excitement about opportunities to strengthen community connections and expand impact. Heritage preservation advocacy will continue while embracing innovative ways to engage with the city’s past. Future initiatives will focus on making heritage more inclusive, interactive, and relevant to all Edmontonians.
These achievements reflect the ongoing support of the City of Edmonton, dedicated partners, and you – community members who share a passion for preserving and celebrating local heritage. Your engagement and enthusiasm inspire daily progress.
As the holiday season approaches, I wish you and your loved ones peace, joy, and time to create precious memories. Thank you for being part of the journey in protecting and raising up Edmonton’s rich heritage.
David Ridley
Executive Director