Elder Clara Mercer, photo courtesy NAABA.Born in the bush and calling Buffalo Lake home, Elder Clara Mercer (July 28, 1952 - June 24, 2020) was a catalyst for traditional celebration and pride in Fort McKay. She recognized the need for cultural revitalization in her community, so she made space for youth to learn traditional teachings and established the NorthWind Dancers & Drummers.

She loved and supported the youth with such passion because she knew they were the leaders of tomorrow. She recognized the need for guidance, and often consulted with the Elders to ensure the ways of the community were being shared in a good way.

Elder Clara Mercer was a kokhum and an Aunty to many. Her spirit lives on in the movement of the powwow dancers, the sewing of beads, the heartbeat of the drums and the singing Cree songs that she gifted to her community.

The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is celebrating the rich culture and history of Indigenous peoples of this region in recognition of National Indigenous History Month. Please join us throughout the month of June in honoring the original peoples whose stories have marked these lands for time immemorial.