TDSB Elder Dr. Duke Redbird Appointed to the Order of Canada – tdsb

June 26, 2026

On Friday, June 26, the Government of Canada announced that Elder Dr. Duke Redbird was appointed to the Order of Canada as an Officer (O.C.) for being a defining voice in Indigenous arts and thought for over sixty years.

A member and an Elder of the Saugeen First Nation, Dr. Redbird is a multidisciplinary artist, public speaker, and cultural thought leader whose work spans over six decades. As a thought leader and visionary, Dr. Redbird has played a critical role in bringing Indigenous knowledge systems into Canadian classrooms.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition,” said Dr. Redbird. “I accept it not only on my own behalf, but in recognition of the Elders, Knowledge Keepers, educators, artists, and communities who have guided and inspired me throughout my journey. My life’s work has been dedicated to building understanding through education, culture, and the sharing of Indigenous ways of knowing. I remain committed to supporting future generations as they carry this work forward.”