The Indigenous community in Saskatchewan is emphasizing the importance of having a voice in provincial legislation as the province approaches election night. Indigenous Peoples make up 17 percent of the population, yet historically they have been largely excluded from having representation in government. Aly Bear, a candidate for chief of the FSIN, highlights the need for Indigenous voices at the decision-making tables to address issues from an Indigenous perspective, in line with the calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Having meaningful Indigenous representation in government is essential for advancing reconciliation and addressing systemic issues faced by Indigenous communities.
Among the political parties in Saskatchewan, the Green Party stands out for its efforts in promoting Indigenous representation. Twenty-seven out of the 58 Green Party candidates are Indigenous or First Nation, demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Alesha Bruce, a Green Party candidate for Saskatchewan Rivers, shares her experience of growing up without representation and aims to make a difference through her candidacy. The Green Party leader, Naomi Hunter, views this as an opportunity to set a precedent for future generations, empowering Indigenous children to see themselves represented in leadership positions and promoting inclusivity within the party.
The Green Party has adopted a new framework called “the rights of Mother Earth,” incorporating Indigenous principles and consulting elders on various issues. This approach reflects a commitment to Indigenous perspectives and values, ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard and respected within the party. Both the Progress Party and Progressive Conservative Party in Saskatchewan have indicated that they are running one Indigenous candidate each, although Global News’s attempts to confirm Indigenous candidates with all parties were unsuccessful.
Overall, the need for Indigenous representation in government is crucial for advancing reconciliation and addressing the unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities. While some political parties in Saskatchewan are making efforts to include Indigenous candidates, there is still room for improvement in ensuring meaningful representation and engagement with Indigenous perspectives. In a province where Indigenous Peoples make up a significant portion of the population, it is essential for governments to prioritize Indigenous voices and work towards building inclusive and diverse decision-making structures. Efforts like those by the Green Party to promote Indigenous representation and incorporate Indigenous principles into their framework set a positive example for other parties to follow and highlight the importance of uplifting Indigenous voices in the political landscape.
