The Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) has partnered with the Edmonton Aboriginal Seniors Centre (EASC) to unveil a new art-wrapped bus, designed with input from Indigenous seniors in the city.

City staff worked with the Centre to gather stories, values, and experiences from Indigenous seniors, which directly influenced the final design. The wrap features images including sweetgrass, gathering places, and teepees, representing knowledge and teachings shared in those conversations.

Voices and cultures

“We are honoured to see this bus on Edmonton streets. Our hope is that local Indigenous Peoples see their voices and cultures reflected in this design, and that all Edmontonians are reminded this is Treaty 6 Territory and we are all Treaty people,” said Sarah Feldman, acting branch manager, ETS. “We are grateful to the Edmonton Aboriginal Seniors Centre and the Indigenous seniors who shared their knowledge and wisdom with us.”

The bus also includes information inside about the Edmonton Aboriginal Seniors Centre and its culturally guided services for Indigenous seniors.

“The unveiling of the EASC bus wrap is a proud moment for our Centre and our members. The design reflects the spirit of gathering, healing, and cultural strength with colours of the northern lights, the warmth of a fire, and the voices of our community woven together,” said Deborah Rose, executive director, EASC. “This bus will not only carry people across the city, but it will also carry our stories, our teachings, and our commitment to making Edmonton a place where Indigenous seniors are seen, respected and celebrated.”

The initiative is part of the City of Edmonton’s reconciliation efforts and its Indigenous Framework, aimed at building relationships with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.

The bus entered regular services mid-September and will run on city routes as well as be available for community charters.