Okîsikow (Angel) Way

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Okîsikow (Angel) Way honours all women and gender diverse people who have experienced violence, those who continue to suffer, along with their families. The naming of this stretch of 101A Avenue is meant to serves as a reminder that there are safe places in Edmonton to seek shelter, services and support. It also serves as a reminder to all Edmontonians that all victims of violence and their families need and deserve spaces that provide services, shelter and support.

Commemorate Okîsikow (Angel) Way Day

The City of Edmonton proudly joins other communities across the country in dedicating a street name to those who have and continue to be victims of gender-based violence.

Okîsikow (Angel) Way Day 2023 - Mayor Sohi's Greetings and Proclamation

As Edmontonians, we must show respect, kindness and compassion for one another, and stand together against violence. It is our hope that Okîsikow (Angel) Way will be a place where victims can find understanding and support.

Okîsikow (Angel) Way is a collaboration between Elders, Stolen Sisters & Brothers Action Movement, CEASE: Centre to End All Sexual Exploitation, MacIntosh Consulting, The Butterfly Project, and Ayana Communications, with the support from the City of Edmonton.

Guided by the Indigenous Framework, the City’s participation is part of a committed journey to remove barriers and collaborate with the community to make spaces welcoming and safe. Although it is part of the Indigenous Framework, Okîsikow (Angel) Way is for all citizens of Edmonton.

Learn more on our Facebook page - Okîsikow Way Day

The Angel Street Initiative

The Angel Street initiative began in 2007 as a national movement to raise awareness and demonstrate support for women and children across Canada who experienced domestic violence. Then Mayor of Iqaluit, Elisapee Sheutiapik, and City Council voted to name the street leading to the city’s Qimaavik shelter for women “Angel Street”.

In 2011, Edmonton became one of the first major cities in Canada to show support for Iqaluit's initiative by naming a street in downtown Edmonton “Okîsikow (Angel) Way”. ’okîsikow’ is Cree for ‘angel’. It was unveiled in Edmonton on June 14, 2011, with a blessing by Mini Freeman, an Inuk Elder and author.