Ever since long ago, when the first early Europeans came to Canada, the aboriginals and their culture have slowly died out. Even most aboriginals today don’t speak much of their native language. The disappearance of the aboriginal culture and beauty is certain- or is it?

Akina is currently 13 years old, attending the Victoria School of Performing and Visual Arts and a proud Cree. She sings in three choirs: Victoria’s Junior High Choir, the Shumayela Choir, and the Sacred Heart Church of First People’s Choir. She has also recorded a CD, and has performed in many places giving her much experience. Akina Shirt made Canadian history on December the 29th, 2007 where she was the first person ever to sing the Canadian national anthem “O Canada” during an NHL hockey game – in Cree. Akina is very proud of her heritage, and sometimes does traditional dances and songs. She is a wonderful singer and someday might become famous.

I think that Akina Shirt has impacted Canadian society the most because she made people realize that the aboriginal culture was disappearing. Even Akina doesn’t speak fluent Cree. But she got people to open their eyes, and try to help sustain this culture. How can Canada call itself an accepting nation when the first nations themselves are being neglected? The aboriginal customs are the most important, because it respects everything and everyone around them. The government has promised special rights to the aboriginals, yet so many of them are left ignored.

Akina Shirt is a great person who made a whole lot of a difference through one performance. If everyone was like that, the world would be a much better place. She might be merely 13 years old, but she has chased her dream many miles, and finally has caught up to it.