Elder Tom Roberts is often asked to host gatherings in the tri-communities. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

making changes

‘An impactful action’: Roberts joins Air Ronge council as new Elder advisor

Jul 21, 2021 | 4:28 PM

The mayor of Air Ronge is hopeful the appointment of an Elder advisor brings meaningful change to the way the municipal government conducts day-to-day operations.

“It is truly an honour to have Elder Tom Roberts join our team and I hope the Province of Saskatchewan will take note to make Elder advisor positions a part of future legislation,” Mayor Julie Baschuk said. “What an impactful action that would be for Indigenous Peoples and our province. I’m very proud of our council for embracing this and I am so grateful that Elder Tom has accepted.”

Baschuk explained the idea to create such a role came to her when the announcement of unmarked graves at former residential school began appearing in the news. She said when tri-community leadership came together to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day instead of hosting Canada Day events, it was an impactful moment for her.

While Roberts won’t hold any voting authority, he will attend regular council meetings and be available to council outside of those meetings. His role will be to provide knowledge, insight and historical context, as well as advice on topics that come across the council table.

“I didn’t want to be someone of only words in front of a podium, but someone who has the opportunity to change the conversation by delivering action,” Baschuk said. “I think it’s time that we really begin listening and providing that real opportunity to Indigenous Peoples and Elders, instead of always being the ones to dictate.”

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Baschuk mentioned it’s important Indigenous peoples are given the opportunity to have their voices heard, because historically they were forced to stay quiet or be ashamed of who they were.

Roberts attended the first regular council meeting in his new role on Tuesday. He said he wasn’t sure about the position when he was first asked, but ultimately accepted because he wants to work together with the municipality towards reconciliation.

“It’s a big honour to be recognized within the community of Air Ronge and to sit as an Elder within their council chambers,” Roberts noted. “I haven’t heard of any other municipal council who’ve done that, so maybe they are the first.”

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno