National Indigenous History Month Honours, Elder Dr. Winston Wuttunee

A Journey of Cultural Resilience by Harnessing the Power of Storytelling

As we celebrate National Indigenous History Month, it is important to recognize and honour the incredible contributions of individuals who have dedicated their lives to preserving and sharing Indigenous culture. Elder Dr. Winston D. Wuttunee, a distinguished performer, educator, writer, and speaker, is a shining example of someone who has used his talents to uplift his community and bridge cultural divides.

Born and raised in Red Pheasant Cree Nation, Saskatchewan, Elder Dr. Wuttunee has steadfastly advocated for Indigenous culture throughout his career. With a deep passion for storytelling, he has harnessed the power of music to convey traditional knowledge, instill pride, and promote healing. Driven by a desire to heal wounds and connect with people on a spiritual level, his music is a testament to the resilience and beauty of Indigenous traditions.

Since bursting onto the scene in 1973, Elder Dr. Wuttunee has amassed an impressive list of accomplishments and accolades. Notably, he was honoured to perform his composition, “Museecho,” at the iconic Carnegie Hall in New York, where he received a standing ovation for his stirring performance. His talent has also brought him into the presence of legends, as he opened for renowned musicians such as Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

Beyond his musical achievements, Elder Dr. Wuttunee has dedicated himself to sharing Indigenous culture with a global audience. He has graced numerous international festivals, including the Winnipeg Folk Festival and Festival du Voyageur, where he shared the stage with artists like Al Simmons and Fred Penner. One can even find Elder Dr. Wuttunee crawling through the famous log on CBC’s Fred Penner’s Place, captivating young minds and fostering cross-cultural understanding. Being on CBC’s Sesame Street left an impression on Indigenous children who were happy to see someone like themselves.

Elder Dr. Wuttunee’s contributions have been widely recognized and celebrated throughout his career. His albums have garnered critical acclaim, and he has been nominated for a Juno Award, the highest musical honour in Canada. In 2002, he received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards, further solidifying his impact on the Indigenous music scene. In 2007, APTN produced an award-winning documentary on Elder Winston’s life called Kitochikew—The One Who Makes Music. In 2013, he was honoured with an Indspire Award, formerly the National Aboriginal Achievement Award, for his remarkable contributions to culture, heritage, and spirituality. Most recently, in 2019, the University of Manitoba awarded him a Doctor of Letters, paying tribute to his profound influence on Indigenous education and cultural preservation.

What sets Elder Dr. Wuttunee apart is his talent and accomplishments and his unwavering dedication to empowering future generations. He has made it his mission to reach out to Indigenous youth, inspiring them to embrace their heritage and pursue their dreams. By sharing his knowledge and experiences, he encourages young Indigenous individuals to take pride in their identity and embrace the richness of their cultural heritage.

In honour of National Indigenous History Month, we celebrate Elder Dr. Winston D. Wuttunee for his invaluable contributions to Indigenous culture, music, and education. Through his extraordinary career as a performer, educator, writer, and speaker, he has illuminated the world with the beauty and resilience of Indigenous traditions. Elder Dr. Wuttunee’s unwavering commitment to healing, sharing, and inspiring others is an enduring legacy, reminding us of honouring and preserving Indigenous culture for future generations.