Indigenous artists represented in Fort Macleod celebrations

By Alexandra Noad - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on June 28, 2024.

The Town of Fort Macleod is celebrating 150 years this weekend.

One of the main attractions of the celebration will be the Main Street Stage with several artists performing.

John Wort Hannam, a musician who originated from Fort Macleod, was in charge of programming the music. He lined up 10 artists for the two days, with five of them being Indigenous.

Wort Hannam feels it was important to make sure Indigenous artists were represented in the lineup.

“Two of the big neighbours of the town of Fort Macleod are Piikani and Kainai and so it was important for me to have that representation in the lineup,” said Wort Hannam.

When Wort Hannam taught grade nine on the Blood Reserve, he noticed how involved they were with music.

“There were lots of musicians out there singing and playing traditional and non traditional music,” said Wort Hannam.

The students played everything from traditional pow-wow music to metal to pop and country.

Wort Hannam believes Indigenous voices are important especially in the big milestones.

“Indigenous people are certainly a big part of the tapestry of Southern Alberta…if we’re going to recognize a milestone in Fort Macleod I think somewhere in the conversation an Indigenous perspective has to be included,” said Wort Hannan.

Some of the headlining artists include Willy Big Bull, Olivia Grassland Singers and John McCann.

A full lineup of musicians along with a list of all the festivities can be found at https://www.fortmacleod.com/live/150th-celebration