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Harold Cardinal: Professor, Politician, Activist, Author, and a Tireless Advocate for Indigenous Rights

Isaiah Price

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Published in Harold Cardinal Professor Politician Activist Who Used The Pen To Fight For The Six Nations Canadian History For Kids True Canadian Heroes Indigenous People Of Canada Edition

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Harold Cardinal, A Prominent Indigenous Leader, Professor, Politician, Activist, And Author Harold Cardinal Professor Politician Activist Who Used The Pen To Fight For The Six Nations Canadian History For Kids True Canadian Heroes Indigenous People Of Canada Edition

Harold Cardinal - Professor, Politician & Activist Who Used the Pen to Fight for the Six Nations | Canadian History for Kids | True Canadian Heroes - Indigenous People Of Canada Edition

by Kevin Smith

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	44790 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	74 pages

Harold Cardinal was a remarkable Indigenous leader who dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of his people. As a professor, politician, activist, and author, he used his voice and influence to bring about positive change for Indigenous communities across Canada.

Cardinal was born in 1945 on the Alexander First Nation in Alberta. He was a member of the Dene Nation and a descendant of Chief Big Bear, a prominent Cree leader who fought against the Canadian government in the late 19th century.

Cardinal's childhood was marked by poverty and discrimination. He attended residential school, where he was subjected to physical and emotional abuse. Despite these challenges, Cardinal excelled in his studies and went on to earn a degree in education from the University of Alberta.

After graduating, Cardinal worked as a teacher and principal on several First Nations reserves. He also became involved in politics, serving as chief of the Alexander First Nation from 1974 to 1980. During his time as chief, Cardinal fought for better housing, education, and health care for his community.

In 1980, Cardinal was elected as the first Indigenous Member of Parliament. He represented the riding of Athabasca, Alberta, in the House of Commons for two terms. As an MP, Cardinal continued to advocate for Indigenous rights, including the recognition of Aboriginal title and the implementation of self-government.

In addition to his political career, Cardinal was also a prolific writer. He published several books, including The Rebirth of Canada's Indians (1977),The Unjust Society (1989),and Prophet of the New Indian (1999). In his writings, Cardinal spoke out against the racism and colonialism that Indigenous peoples have faced in Canada.

Cardinal's work had a profound impact on Canadian society. He helped to raise awareness of the challenges facing Indigenous communities and inspired a new generation of Indigenous leaders. In 1993, Cardinal was appointed to the Free Download of Canada, one of the country's highest civilian honors.

Harold Cardinal passed away in 2005 at the age of 59. He left behind a legacy of activism, scholarship, and advocacy that continues to inspire Indigenous peoples today.

Additional Resources

* Harold Cardinal on The Canadian Encyclopedia * Harold Cardinal on Indigenous Foundations * Harold Cardinal: A legacy of fighting for Indigenous rights on CBC Radio

Harold Cardinal - Professor, Politician & Activist Who Used the Pen to Fight for the Six Nations | Canadian History for Kids | True Canadian Heroes - Indigenous People Of Canada Edition

by Kevin Smith

4.5 out of 5