Values of Taking Action: Exhibition Openings of Taking Action & Behind Racism: Challenging the Way We Think
Join us on May 1 (May Day) from 5:00–7:00 PM at the Galt Museum & Archives Akaisamitohkanao’pa for an inspiring evening of community action, reflection, and connection.
This special event will feature the grand opening of two thought-provoking exhibitions: Taking Action and Behind Racism: Challenging the Way We Think. The evening begins with a free Union-supported BBQ and transitions into an engaging experience of storytelling and dialogue with local changemakers—individuals dedicated to improving society and the environment through creative action, innovation, and hard work.
As part of the program, each changemaker will be paired with one of the Niitsitapii (Blackfoot) Values, showcasing how these principles come alive through their work:
Aatsimmoiyihkanni – Spirituality
Kimmapiiypitsinni – Kindness to others
Innakotsiiyissinni – Respect for others
Ihpipototsp – Purpose for being there
Niitsitapiiyissinni – To be Blackfoot
Aksistoiypaittapiisinni – Being able to take on tasks independently
Isspomaanitapiiyissinni – Being helpful to others
Aoahkannaistokawa – Everything comes in pairs (balance)
Ihkanaitapstiwa – Everything that is given to a person to do what they want with (knowledge, etc.)
Pomotsiiyissinni – To transfer something to others (knowledge, etc.)
Kakyosin – Be aware of your environment, be observant
Guests will have the opportunity to engage with these changemakers in an interactive “living library” format, where each individual shares their knowledge, experience, and insights tied to their assigned Blackfoot value.
You’ll also be invited to walk through the exhibitions to explore how these Niitsitapii values connect with the actions and stories of changemakers across various histories, fostering a deeper understanding of social and environmental transformation.
Celebrate the power of action, reflection, and community on this special May Day!
About our local changemakers:
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A veteran supporter of Pronghorn Athletics and the University of Lethbridge, Knud Petersen has done much to enrich the lives of many. Knud Petersen has been a leader in fundraising activities for Pronghorn Athletics. A founding member of the Pronghorn Booster Club, Knud Petersen is actively involved in the club and has served as its President for six years.
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Tadasshi (Tad) Mitsui was born in 1932 in Japan and grew up in Tokyo and came to Canada after receiving Bachelor of Arts and of Divinity (BA and BD) from Tokyo Union Theological Seminary. He came to Canada in 1957, qualified to be an ordained minister of the United Church of Canada with Master of Sacred Theology (STM) from the Union College affiliated with the University of British Columbia, and later Doctor of Sacred Theology (STD) from the United College affiliated with McGill University. He was the minister of Vancouver Japanese United Church. In 1968 he took up a position as Lecturer of the University of Botswana, Lesotho, and Swaziland and taught for eight years with Desmond Tutu as a colleague and involved heavily in Anti-Apartheid movement, detained briefly before being expelled from South Africa. He lived in Geneva, Switzerland for six years, worked in World University Service and World Council of Churches and continued working for Africa. Back in Canada he lived in Toronto and Montreal and worked for the church administration until retired in the year 2000.
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Since arriving in Lethbridge in 2004 to pursue a Political Science degree at the University of Lethbridge, Jenn Prosser has called this city home. After gaining career experience across Canada, she returned in 2019 with her family. Her work spans community organizations like the Southern Alberta Art Gallery, CKXU, and the Womanspace Resource Centre. She currently serves as the Executive Director of the Lethbridge Pro-Choice Society of Lethbridge & Southern Alberta. and is completing a Master’s in Cultural, Social, and Political Thought.
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Laurie McIntosh is a full-time kindergarten teacher, speaker, and consultant who has spent 23 years working in education. Known for her warmth and realness, she brings authentic stories from her classroom and life experiences to inspire others. Through keynote addresses, workshops, and her book Teachers These Days, Laurie helps educators connect to themselves and their communities. She’s currently represented by Talent Bureau and Outside Pin; these organizations book Laurie for events across Canada.
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(BASC (BA) '77), Indigenous Counsellor, Counselling Services
Wilma Spear Chief (Ookaki, “Sleeping Woman”) is a Kainaikii from the Blood Tribe who has lived in Lethbridge for over 30 years. A U of L Psychology graduate, she holds a master’s in Transpersonal Psychology from John F. Kennedy University. A registered psychologist for 33 years, Wilma has worked in mental health clinics, community addictions training, consulting, and private practice. Her lived experience informs her deep commitment to healing and supporting her community. -
Barb is a deeply motivated and long-term member of Lethbridge Raging Grannies group. The Raging Grannies are an advocacy and protest rooted group who bring a voice to issues of injustice through song and strong community presence.
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Extensive skills in protein and genetic engineering and molecular biology; Extensive research experience in basic and applied microbiology/biochemistry; Comfortable with pharmacological experiments; Highly skilled at the design and development of biosensors and bioprobes; Public education on scientific topics ; Very good at organizing activities; Excellent leadership qualities
Specialties:
-Genetic and protein engineering
-Microbiology
-Molecular biology
-Writing proposals and reports on scientific findings
-Design and implement novel research projects
-Science communication -
Resourceful and technically skilled business professional. A proven event planner, fund developer, volunteer coordinator, and communications strategist. Able to implement long-range plans with consideration of multiple stakeholders and competing interests. A problem solver and idealist.
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Tseten Drawu, M.Ed, C.C.C., (she/her), started the transpersonal journey over fifteen years ago in the quest for wholeness through the shedding of the layers of identity via non dual psychotherapy. She found freedom once the stories of life experience were realized as just part of the life movie. Transformation of trauma was realized through acceptance and surrender. Beauty of the abyss is continually being enjoyed from moment to moment. Liberation is felt through a deep sense of trust in the unfolding and the perfection of what is.