The People Who Move Us

Behind every great person is someone who sparked that greatness. Here, 12 public figures tell us about the impressive individuals who’ve influenced them.

BUFFY SAINTE-MARIE

The musician is performing at Ottawa’s National Arts Centre on July 3. Most inspirational to me is the continuing work of Idle No More—not only the women who founded the movement but also all the people across Canada who show up to protect and celebrate our Indigenous and human rights to self-determination, our lands and natural resources. Lawyer and Idle No More co-founder Sylvia McAdam (Saysewahum) keeps moving ideas forward: revitalizing Cree law, One House, Many Nations [a campaign to build sustainable homes], and sharing with non-Indigenous people the information needed for real reconciliation.

MARK TEWKSBURY

The former competitive swimmer and LGBTQ+ activist has been a vocal critic of International Olympic Committee corruption.

Cross-country skier Beckie Scott had her bronze medal from the 2002 Winter Games upgraded to silver, then gold after both her competitors were disqualified for doping. Since then, she’s been a staunch advocate for clean sport as the chair of the World Anti-Doping Agency’s athlete committee. Despite facing threats and intimidation, Beckie continues to fight for the interests of athletes around the world. I greatly admire her determination and principles.

JILL BARBER

The singer, who’s working on her next solo album, has also written two children’s books.