Contributor

Les Harper is originally from Saddle Lake Cree Nation in Northern Alberta. He is the son of Elder Pauline Shirt and the late Elder Vern Harper. He is committed to bringing traditional lifestyle and healing practices to an urban environment through art and culture. Les uses an arts-based practice as part of his counseling and community work. Les’s work in the health and social service sector has focused on Indigenous Harm Reduction, the health and wellbeing of people living with HIV, people involved with the carceral system, and People Who Use Drugs. He has also served as a community leader in grief and healing supports for individuals affected by the intersecting crises of failed drug policy, violent carceral systems, and ongoing colonization.