Tantoo Cardinal, the iconic Indigenous actor of Métis descent, was named a 2020 Governor General's Performing Arts Awards (GGPAA) recipient for Lifetime Artistic Achievement in Canada today. The GGPAA recognizes Canadian artists who have made an indelible contribution to cultural life in Canada and around the world. Cardinal joins other 2020 inductees including actress Catherine O'Hara, actor Ryan Reynolds, Canadian singer/songwriter, and First Nations artist Florent Vollant, composer Alexina Louie, choreographer Zab Maboungou and volunteer Lynda Hamilton, at the April 24 induction ceremony in Ottawa, Canada.
"I'm deeply honored to be receiving this award and recognition for my work as an actress," said Cardinal. "I entered the performing arts to represent the stories of my people, to provide authenticity for the characters and stories that were being written and told. I'm proud to have portrayed so many amazing Indigenous women in my roles, and I hope that my actions will inspire everyone to represent our role in history and society with truth, grace, and respect." In a career spanning 50 years and more than 120 films, television and theatre roles, Cardinal has helped transform the face of film and television when it comes to portraying Indigenous people and stories. One of the most widely recognized First Nations actors of her generation, she has portrayed complex and diverse characters and challenged negative stereotypes of Indigenous culture and communities. As a performer, mentor, and cultural and environmental activist, she has blazed a trail with her talent, widening and improving the path for others to follow.Videos