Image: Dan & Mary Lou Smoke, 2022. Image courtesy of Studio Kuefner Photography
Museum London celebrates the life and legacy of friend and respected Elder, Dan Smoke.
Dan, alongside his partner Mary Lou, have been tireless advocates for racial justice and harmony in our city for decades. Together, their iconic campus radio program, Smoke Signals, highlighted the work of Indigenous cultural workers and activists from across Turtle Island, and explored the nuances of Indigenous customs, stories and worldviews. As the longest-running Indigenous radio program in Canada, Dan and Mary Lou’s Smoke Signals provided countless listeners with an expanse of invaluable knowledge.
For years, Dan and Mary Lou have been dear friends to Museum London. In recent years, they have given thanks to the maize plant at our annual Corn Roast (Maiz Barbacoa) with artist Ron Benner, offered thoughtful greetings and told stories at events and receptions, and participated in meaningful programming like Words Festival and our 80ML anniversary project. We are endlessly grateful to Dan for his generosity and storytelling, and extend our heartfelt condolences to Mary Lou, his family, community, and relations.