The Indigenous Heritage Speaker Series is set to take place on September 26, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. MDT, aligning with the upcoming National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada on September 30. This annual event fosters a deeper understanding of Indigenous culture, history, and the ongoing efforts towards Truth and Reconciliation.

We are honoured to announce this year’s speakers will be Elmer Ghostkeeper and Benjamin Kucher. The event will be hosted by Neenah Brown, AUSU Councillor and Indigenous Circle Voice, alongside Molly Salter, Indigenous Circle at AUSU member.

Please join us for their thought-provoking and inspiring discussions!

Elmer Ghostkeeper

Elmer Ghostkeeper is a prominent member of the Métis Nation, serving as the President and CEO of SunStar Resources Inc., an Aboriginal-owned oil and gas company in the Paddle Prairie Métis Settlement. With a Master of Arts in Anthropology and a diploma in Civil Engineering Technology, Elmer combines his education with over thirty years of life care experience, advocating for a holistic approach that nurtures the spirit, mind, emotion, and body for a happy, healthy lifestyle.

As a former President of the Federation of Métis Settlement Associations and an Elder of the Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement, he has played a key role in promoting Indigenous wisdom and leadership. While serving as the Regional Manager of Aboriginal Health Services for the Capital Health Authority in Edmonton, he developed a unique diabetes management program, demonstrating his commitment to health and well-being in his community.

Elmer is also a published author of “Spirit Gifting: The Concept of Spiritual Exchange” and has contributed to Indigenous education and awareness as a Métis scholar at McGill University. His philosophy emphasizes respect for Mother Earth, sustainability, and restoring our natural environment.

Beyond his professional achievements, Elmer mentors Indigenous youth, encouraging them to pursue careers in engineering and science to foster economic development and self-sufficiency in their communities. He believes that with the right education, Indigenous young people can excel in any field.

Benjamin Kucher

Benjamin J. Kucher is a prominent Indigenous student leader, activist, and researcher specializing in Indigenous archaeology. A member of the Métis Nation of Alberta and a descendant of the Michel First Nation, Benjamin is pursuing a Master of Arts in Anthropology at the University of Alberta. His research focuses on trade networks and cultural practices in Métis archaeological sites, with an emphasis on the significance of trade beads in Métis culture and identity.

Benjamin is actively involved in advocacy for Indigenous representation, serving as co-chair of the National Indigenous Advocacy Committee, Vice President (Student Life) of the Graduate Students’ Association, and President of the Indigenous Graduate Students’ Association at the University of Alberta. He has been involved in the creation of the new position of Vice President (Indigenous Relations), in the Graduate Students’ Association, to advance reconciliation efforts within the university community.

With a strong commitment to promoting Indigenous sovereignty and truth in archaeology, Benjamin is the head of the Office of the Independent Special Interlocutor for Missing Children and Unmarked Graves and Burial Sites associated with Indian Residential Schools’ Youth Advisory Council and regularly speaks at conferences, including the Canadian Archaeological Association and the Society for American Archaeology where he addresses topics like Indigenous laws, data sovereignty, and the use of archaeology as a tool for Indigenous sovereignty.

Talk Title: From Roots to Resilience: My Journey as an Indigenous Scholar and Advocate

Talk Description: In this talk, Benjamin will share his journey as an Indigenous student navigating academia, from early experiences as a Métis scholar to becoming a leader and advocate for Indigenous representation. Benjamin will explore the challenges and triumphs he has encountered while pursuing a career in anthropology, highlighting his commitment to Indigenous archaeology and activism. He will discuss key moments that shaped his path, including his work on Métis identity, trade networks, and cultural practices, as well as their leadership roles in advancing Indigenous rights within student governance and the broader academic community. This inspiring talk will provide insights into his dedication to fostering Indigenous sovereignty and social justice, both in his research and activism.

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Event Contact

• Please email questions about the event to ausu@ausu.org.
• Students requiring accommodations can email executivedirector@ausu.org.