Tom Jackson

For over 40 years, Tom Jackson has embraced his life experiences, championed for the marginalized, and entertained a continent of concert-goers and television viewers. His acumen has earned him recognition amongst his peers, yet he humbly perseveres because it is the reward he seeks, not the award. Born to an English father and Cree mother, he carries the legacy of his parents’ search for social acceptance and their selfless manner of keeping their door open for anyone who might need a meal, or conversation. His personal journey of identity led him to the streets of Winnipeg, and a bond with those outcast and struggling to make their way, financially, in the world. Tom’s voice became his way off the streets—figuratively and literally—and into radio stations, television studios, theatres, and the stage. Penned the master of disaster, or minstrel with a message, it is music—his first love—that draws him to create change with the touch of a song, poem, musical or concert tour. He takes to the road annually with The Huron Carole Benefit Concert Series, marking 22 years of cross-Canada travel to raise awareness and funds for food banks and charitable organizations. Tom has recorded 15 albums—his latest release ‘Twas in the Moon of Wintertime—in support of The Huron Carole. For a younger generation of television viewers, Tom is recognizable from his portrayal of Billy Twofeathers in Shining Time Station, and his guest role in Star Trek: The Next Generation. Yet, it is his six years of playing Chief Peter Kenidi in CBC’s North of 60 that still draws comments, letters, e-mails, and many hugs from longtime fans. The series was an inspired view into the lives of a First Nation community, and Tom inadvertently became a role model through his involvement. Taking the responsibility and possibility from that profile has led to extraordinary achievements in community service, professional development, and global change. Whether one links Tom to The Huron Carole, Singing for Supper or Swinging for Supper, the evidence of his earning and staying power in the fundraising circle is without question one of infamy for this country’s food banks. When there’s trouble or trauma, Tom steps up with ideas to alleviate and compensate those devastated by floods, fires, drought, terrorism, youth suicide, homelessness, environmental disaster, and economic disadvantage. His mantra of being in service to others is secured with his choice to engage if it’s good business, good for the world, and good for the soul. He can light up a room with his storytelling, endearing humour, and self-penned tunes. He can inspire, uplift and entertain 10 or 10,000, and the gifts he shares, he carries from his ancestry, his life, and his loves. “You don’t have to change the whole world, you just have to change your world, and the rest will follow.” – Tom Jackson For over 40 years, actor, singer, producer & activist Tom Jackson has crafted a compassionate stage of caring—entertaining both concert & TV audiences.