Saskatchewan First Nations: Lives Past and Present

Michael Payne is head of the Research and Publications Program at the
Historic Sites and Archives Service, Alberta Community Development, and
the co-author of A Narrative History of Fort Dunvegan.

The idea behind the TBS series of books is to reflect Saskatchewan’s
provincial motto, “From Many Peoples, Strength.” The motto seems
particularly apt for Saskatchewan’s First Nations, since they
represent many peoples and theirs is a story of remarkable strength in
the face of adversity.

This book includes a useful, albeit short, summary of the development
of political organizations and educational institutions among
Saskatchewan’s First Nations. It also touches on the development of
Aboriginal newspapers, television, and other media, and the role played
by Aboriginal people in sports in Saskatchewan. The bulk of the book,
however, consists of more than 125 short biographies of notable people
of Aboriginal descent.

Many of the biographies were written by a family member or friend, so
they have a very personal feel. Those profiled include both historical
personages and many individuals who are still very active in their
communities (a veritable who’s who of Saskatchewan’s current First
Nations leadership). Indeed, there are many role models here of people
who managed to retain a strong sense of community service and pride
while pursuing productive careers in politics, business, the arts, and
sports. After reading these biographies, you would be hard pressed to
think of an aspect of Saskatchewan’s history to which First Nations
peoples have not made a major contribution.