Madeline Terbasket, a two-spirit storyteller and artist, is also a strong champion for the visibility, rights, and self-expression of marginalized communities and individuals.
Madeline’s courage and perseverance in challenging societal norms to help others embrace their authenticity make Kettle Valley Memorial and the Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce delighted to recognize Madeline as a Top 40 recipient. Madeline’s creative journey is as diverse as it is impactful.
Their first mural, “Chief Skemxist,” stands proudly in downtown Keremeos, B.C., symbolizing Madeline’s deep connection to the Similkameen Valley. In 2017, Madeline embraced the art of burlesque, performing as Mother Girth, “the two-spirit tease,” and earned the title of ‘Most Innovative’ at the Edmonton Burlesque Festival.
Burlesque has been a transformative tool for Madeline, leading to body positivity and nurturing self-love and respect. Madeline’s foray into drag performance began unexpectedly. After dressing up as “Rez Dude” for Halloween and thoroughly enjoying the experience, they decided to bring the character to the stage as “Rez Daddy.” This persona allowed Madeline to explore and express their masculine side, challenge gender norms, and provide a platform for commentary on Indigenous experiences.
Madeline’s drag performances have since become a powerful medium for advocacy by disrupting preconceptions and inspiring audiences to accept and celebrate their true selves.
In January 2023, Madeline wrote and performed their first one-person show, "The Medicine Walk," at Venables Theatre in Oliver. This performance, rich with vulnerability, truth, and humor, allowed the audience to connect deeply with Madeline’s experiences and challenges around mental health, gender identity, body image, and racism, offering a space for both laughter and tears.
As President of the South Okanagan Similkameen Pride Society, Madeline plays a key role in advocating for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and creating safe, inclusive spaces where individuals can express themselves authentically and without fear of discrimination. Under Madeline’s leadership, SOS Pride has organized numerous successful events, including the second annual Pride Winter Ball, which saw over 100 people from across the region attend. Madeline is also passionate about captikʷł — syilx teachings and stories that guide syilx peoples in how to live and the protocols to follow.
Through storytelling, Madeline is inviting other syilx queer people to see themselves represented in their culture’s stories, and hopes to inspire all people to embrace authenticity, challenge stereotypes, and build an equitable future where intersectionality is celebrated.