Craig First Rider

Hello! My name is Craig First Rider I have two Indian names - Holy Caller (which was given to me by my grandpa Matthew Many Guns) and I was also given a Cree name by the late Pete Gopher from the Rocky Boy tribe is the U.S. I am registered social worker graduated from Mount Royal University and have been working with Siksika Family Service since 2014. My Mom and Dad are Scotty Many Guns and Wanda First Rider from the Black Foot confederacy. My parents were also Horn Society members in Sisksika and follow our way of life. I am part of the Kettle Dance Society and part of A Beaver Bundle in Siksika. This summer, 2022, I will be transferring in to the Brave Dog Society this coming Sundance held in the Blood Tribe.

I have been dancing since I could walk and I have travelled throughout the world to places such as Zurich Switzerland, Hong Kong China, Honolulu Hawaii, all over Canada and in the USA. I have also danced in two Olympics: Calgary 1988 and 2020 Olympics in Vancouver BC. I performed with Bryan Adams and Nelly Furtado in the 2010 Vancouver Opening Olympic ceremonies. I have also danced for the grand stand show that is part of the Calgary Stampede.

I was born and raised in Calgary and love to share my culture and promote myself and my Nation through my dancing. I’m also committed to sharing my culture in the Catholic and public school system and enjoy teaching our children from all backgrounds of life. I have traveled the Powwow trail in the summers and have competed and won many fancy dance championships. My goals in life are to bridge the gaps between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous people so we can live and prosper as human beings.

Thank you sincerely,

Craig First Rider/Holy Caller

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