Laura Burnouf has lived in La Ronge since 1995. (submitted photo/Laura Burnouf)

By Derek Cornet

Métis Vote

‘Education is our new buffalo’: Burnouf seeking MN-S regional representative chair

May 12, 2021 | 12:54 PM

Laura Burnouf, who has served as the Jim Brady Local 19 president since 2009, has her eyes set to become the Métis Nation – Saskatchewan (MN-S) regional representative for Northern Region one.

“Since my retirement, I’ve been working a lot with volunteering with the Local, and then when COVID came around, I was working with people and giving them supplies and the things that they needed,” Burnouf said. “Within that time frame, I really found a passion. It gave me a sense of excitement to work in this area.”

Burnouf believes her expertise in education and language will be beneficial in the role as regional representative. She holds a bachelor of education degree, along with two masters degrees in elementary education and Indigenous languages. She noted she would like to continue pushing for more education in Indigenous languages, adding it will be one of her focuses.

Burnouf also wants voters to know she’s a good listener who will work on addressing their concerns. She’s also committed to Elder and youth, as well as providing mentorships and connections. Burnouf would like to work on forming new partnerships and ensure Métis citizens in the region are seen.

“I think it is important we create a visual image of the Métis here,” she said. “I will continue to do that with the programming that I will be able to offer with the help of the community. I can’t do it alone, so I would depend on my team, staff and community to help me lead them in this direction.”

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Born in Beauval, Burnouf moved to La Ronge in 1995 after accepting a teaching position with the former Northern Teacher Education Program. She currently serves as a member at large with La Ronge’s Kikinahk Friendship Centre and she also raised children in the tri-communities.

Burnouf mentioned her best skills are in education and she would like to use those skills to enhance life for the Métis in the region.

“In the past, our ancestors were able to use all of the parts of the buffalo, but now I think education is our new buffalo,” she said.

The MN-S election will be held May 29. Local voting will occur at 408 La Ronge Avenue.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno