First Aboriginal candidate for Lethbridge city council

Of 33 people seeking eight positions on Lethbridge city council, one is First Nations from the Blood Reserve. Martin Heavy Head, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree at the University of Lethbridge, is challenging five incumbents, several other candidates with electoral experience, and other newcomers to politics. He is the first Aboriginal person to seek a position on council. Heavy Head says he plans to tackle the issues of poverty, lack of affordable and accessible child care, sustainable development, and the need for a municipal food policy. Mayor Rajko Dodic, who will not be seeking re-election, was recognized by the Blackfoot with the Aboriginal name Night Rider last year. Municipal elections will take place Oct. 21 province-wide.