The School of Population and Public Health joins the Cedar Project community in mourning the passing of Elder Lou Demerais whose wisdom, and lifelong commitment to Indigenous health have profoundly shaped the Cedar Project and all who have worked alongside him. As we honour his legacy, we are grateful to share the reflections of Cedar Project Elders and staff, whose words speak to the depth of Elder Lou’s influence, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of Indigenous peoples.
The Cedar Project is saddened to share that one of our esteemed Elders and Cedar Partnership Chair, Lou Demerais passed and became one of our Ancestors on October 17, 2025.
Lou was one of our original members of the Cedar Partnership. Our partnership oversees all aspects of the Cedar Project research from research design, research ethics, data analysis, student mentorship, staff hiring, etc.
With over five decades of experience guiding Lou, he brought incredible insight, intelligence, advocacy, compassion and kindness. Lou was like an eagle; his vision brought him high amongst the clouds where he could look down and easily see the ‘big picture’.
Lou’s made it his career to campaign for the rights of Indigenous people. At the helm of the ship is where you wanted Lou to be – his steadfast belief in the healing of our Indigenous communities was at the forefront of each direction he took. He was such a fierce advocate for HIV – during a time when no one wanted to support people living with HIV. He was a strong believer in supporting Indigenous mothers to fulfil their destinies of parenting their own children, always encouraging moms and so excited to see the growth of their children. This was the guidance that he brought to Cedar – his unwavering commitment to the betterment of our communities. Each decision was measured by its’ impacts to our participants. Lou’s clear vision ensured that each office, truly listened to participant stories, the inclusion of our Indigenous culture and how each research process ensured healing and moving towards a brighter future.
For those that had the privilege of knowing Lou, knew what a humble, kind, and thoughtful gentlemen he truly was. He was never about the accolades; he was always about the people. He wouldn’t want us sitting around speaking of his good works, he would want us to carry on his good works. May his legacy live on in each of us that had the pleasure of working with Lou.
In addition to Lou’s involvement with the Cedar Project, Lou contributed to the School as a guest lecturer, shared their wisdom as an Elder on faculty recruitment committee for the Indigenous Health Services Research, and was actively involved with the Centre for Excellence in Indigenous Health (CEIH). For more details on Lou’s impact and involvement with the CEIH, please see: Memory of Elder Lou Demerais (CEIH)