Accomplishments recognized at annual awards

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There was certainly a lot to celebrate in Yorkton on June 8 as the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations hosted its annual Saskatchewan First Nations Circle of Honour Awards.

The gala awards ceremonies are held each year in conjunction with the Spring Chiefs Assembly as a way to recognize the achievements and excellence of a number of individuals and groups from across the province. This year's assembly was held in Yorkton from June 8 to 10.

Awards were handed out in a number of categories, including education and training; sports, culture, youth and recreation; health and social development; economic and community development; justice; and Indian government. The Saskatchewan First Nations Women's Council also recognized three women for their leadership roles.

Two of the awards given out in the Indian government category went to Saskatchewan chiefs who have made a measurable difference within their communities. Chief Norman Whitehawk of Cote Saulteux Nation was named this year's Citizen of the Year, while the Lifetime Achievement Award went to Chief Louis Taypotat of Kahkewistahaw First Nation

"I am quite surprised by this all, but it makes me see that all the hard work has paid off," said Taypotat on receiving the honour. "It feels great."

Taypotat is heading into his 28th year in a leadership role and, although he has encountered some trying times, he sees the future as being bright.

"It has been a long hard drive, but you can't look back and just have to look forward," Taypotat said.

One of his hardest fought battles so far was in the area of land claims with the federal government. In the end Taypotat's perseverance paid off as Kahkewistahaw received a settlement of almost $95 million.

"That ended up being the second largest land settlement of all time," said Taypotat. "Again that just shows what hard work and determination can accomplish."

Hard work, patience and determination are all key attributes that the recipient of the Citizen of the Year Award nurtures as well.

"You have to set goals and just go after them. And with this acknowledgement I feel that the hard work has been worthwhile as many of our goals have already been achieved," said Whitehawk.

"There's still lots to do but this shows that there are people out there who care about the efforts that are being made."

As each of the chiefs approached the stage to receive their awards, those in the audience expressed their respect and appreciation by giving them standing ovations.

"I need to thank my people for this because they believed in me and had the patience to wait for our goals to become a reality. It is so important for everyone to work together, and respect one another because we must all live together," said Taypotat.

"Some say I am a role model and that is something I take seriously," he added. "And I think it is very important to teach our young people all of this."

As for Whitehawk, who is in his second term as chief with Cote Saulteux Nation, he may not have quite as much experience behind him as Taypotat, but he does embrace the same passion.

"I have so many plans that I want to still carry out and I believe in being involved hands- on," explained Whitehawk. "With that vision and by working together we will achieve more yet."

Among Whitehawk's accomplishments so far are his involvement in negotiating for the construction of the new Cote Saulteux Health Clinic, which recently opened its doors, as well as the building of the Cote RecPlex.

Although both award recipients felt honoured by the recognition, they remain both humble and realistic, knowing there is still plenty of work they still want to do. Even though the awards are a celebration of their past accomplishments, both Taypotat and Whitehawk prefer to remain focused on leading their people into the future.