First Nations recognized as part of labour history in Alberta

First Nations will be recognized prominently in the Provincial Archives of Alberta’s newest exhibit.

The provincial archives has partnered with the Alberta Labour History Institute to recognize the achievements and sacrifices of the working men and women that assisted with the growth and prosperity of the province of Alberta.

 “The exhibit is a way to celebrate the centennial anniversary of Alberta Labour, so that the everyday working heroes are showcased and recognition is given to those that were a part of the growth, development and prosperity of Alberta,” said Jaclyn Landry, provincial coordinator with the archives.

The First Nations panel is one 12 which comprises the “People who Built Alberta: A Centennial for Alberta’s Workers.”

The panel includes a description about earlier societies both pre- and post-contact. It includes brief discussion on spirituality, ways of life and changing times. The division of labour, kinship and economical aspects of First Nations culture is also recognized.

This beginning describes the early contributions of Alberta’s First Nations people to the development of Alberta and the knowledge to assist in the survival skills of early settlers to Canada’s west.
“The First Nations Panel was written by Dr. Alvin Finkel based upon material from his new book Working People in Alberta: A History.  A book that Dr. Finkel of Athabasca University wrote and edited himself,” said Jim Selby, of the Alberta Labour History Institute.

The exhibit in its entirety includes an Introduction, A Province of Immigrant Workers, Alberta’s Forgotten Farm Workers, Women and Work, The Navvies – railway builders, The Coal Miners, The Skilled Trade Workers, Public Employees: Working for the Public Good, Producing Wealth: Alberta Industrial Workers, Health Care Workers and Service Sector Workers.

The People who Built Alberta exhibit was designed for the archives by the Alberta Labour History Institute, as part of a 2012 project, which celebrates the centennial of the Alberta Federation of Labour. The Royal Alberta Museum has partnered with the Alberta Provincial Archives and the Alberta Labour History Institute by providing artifacts that accompany the display panels.

A series of history booklets have been provided for the educational system and the general population. This also includes short workers history videos, a new Alberta labour history published by Athabasca University Press, and a provincial tour by Alberta folk singer Maria Dunn.

The exhibit began in September and runs through until Dec. 21 at the Provincial Archives of Alberta, located in Edmonton.

 Caption: The Provincial Archives of Alberta kicked off its new exhibit on Sept. 5. Among the guest speakers was Dr. Alvin Finkel, whose work is used as the basis for the First Nations panel.