The Indigenous Ukrainian Relationship Initiative started as a joint initiative between the Ukrainian Resource and Development Centre at MacEwan University and the Kule Folklore Centre at the University of Alberta. Read more: About

Upcoming events

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Métis Crossing – a discussion about community networks and development

by Tiffany Shaw

This presentation will focus on the collaboration, creativity, and community-building efforts Reimagine Architects implemented with Métis Crossing over the past 20 years such as site masterplans, the Gathering Centre, the Boutique Lodge, Sky Watching Domes and related infrastructure such as a water treatment plant.

Building Bonds: The Evolution of Ukrainian Gatherings in East Central Alberta

by Pamela Trischuk

This presentation delves into the heart of Ukrainian community in east central Alberta through the lens of gatherings. It explores how traditional gathering spaces and practices from the old country were disrupted and reimagined in the Canadian landscape. In creating new ways to connect, Ukrainian settlers adapted their cultural identity to a new context, navigated the challenges of a new homeland, and fostered community bonds that endure to this day.

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Current Projects

Call for Research Participants

We are currently looking for people to participate in an interview and focus group who have stories about Indigenous peoples and Ukrainians in East Central Alberta.

Requirements:

  • Do you know a story about Cree and/or Métis peoples and Ukrainians?
  • Does the story take place in East Central Alberta?
  • Are you willing to devote 2-4 hours to the research study?
  • Are you willing to share your story?
  • Are you 18 yers or age or older?

If you answered yes, please consider participating. To register, contact Leah Hrycun, Principal Investigator, or click here for more information or fill out this form.

Visiting Neighbors, Learning from the Land

Visiting Neighbors, Learning from the Land is a participatory research project of the Indigenous Ukrainian Relationship Initiative. The core of the project was a two-day event on the land that took place in the summer of 2023 for a group of 25 participants. The visiting happened at two historic sites located in east central Alberta – the area east of Edmonton with historically large Indigenous and Ukrainian populations – Métis Crossing and the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village.

Throughout 2024, Maryna Chernyavska and Larysa Hayduk have interviewed many of the project participants and are currently working on analyzing the interviews and compiling a project report to be shared with the participants for feedback.

Learn more about our past projects and events on the Projects & Events page.