A picture of Kirby Constant with his family at the Saskatchewan Legislative Building. (Submitted/ Kirby Constant)

By Nigel Maxwell

Election season

James Smith Chief candidate commits to economic development and transparency

Mar 23, 2024 | 12:00 PM

The election at James Smith First Nation is five days away, and there are four people running for Chief including the incumbent Wally Burns.

In the lead-up to the March 28 voting day, northeastNOW plans to reach out to each of the candidates to hear what they feel are the significant issues are for the community, and what changes they would help create.

Kirby Constant, who has a background as a power engineer, told northeastNOW his decision to run was based on a motivation to serve the people of James Smith, ensuring that council’s decisions and actions reflect the needs, aspirations, and values of the community members.

While Constant hasn’t per say held any formal political positions, he said he has various skills that be an asset including strategic planning, effective teamwork, and clear communication. Constant also noted his goal is to foster a transparent, inclusive, and progressive environment where every voice is heard, and every individual feels represented.

“By centering our efforts on sustainable development, education, healthcare, and community safety, I’m committed to forging a dependable foundation that will empower our future leaders to effectively address both the opportunities and challenges that will emerge in the coming years,” he said.

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What do you see as the big issues in this election for the community?

1) protection of our sovereign rights and the preservation of our culture and traditions. Constant said It’s vital that the community continues to advocate for the recognition and respect of our treaties and land rights, ensuring our voice is heard and respected on both national and international stages.

2) promoting sustainable development within our community. Constant explained this involves balancing economic growth with the preservation of our natural resources and environment, ensuring we meet our current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. He added it’s also essential to explore and invest in renewable energy sources sustainable agriculture, and eco-friendly technologies that align with our traditional knowledge and practices.

3) Enhancing healthcare, education, and social services within our community is also a priority.

“We must work towards eliminating the disparities in access to quality healthcare and education, ensuring that all community members, regardless of age or location have the opportunities and resources they need to thrive,” he said adding this includes addressing mental health, substance abuse, and the intergenerational impacts of residential schools.

4) Fostering a strong sense of community and resilience in the face of challenges. Constant said this involves nurturing leadership within our youth, promoting unity and collaboration among our people, and building strong alliances with allies who support our cause.

What’s your position on First Nations policing?

Following the mass stabbings that occurred in the community in September 2022, leadership discussed the need for a tribal police service. Constant confirmed he will advocate for a model of community-based policing that empowers First Nations to establish, manage, and govern their own police services.

“Such a model facilitates the development of policing practices that are responsive to the community’s specific circumstances, enhancing trust and cooperation between law enforcement officers and the communities they protect. Moreover, it is essential that First Nations policing is adequately funded and supported by federal and provincial governments to ensure that these services have the resources necessary to operate effectively and safely.”

Constant added this includes access to training that is not only comprehensive in law enforcement techniques but also deeply integrated with cultural competency and sensitivity training specific to the communities served. He also noted the importance of incorporating restorative justice practices into First Nations policing can also play a significant role in healing and reconciliation.

Are there are specific initiatives you would undertake if elected?

1. Cultural Revitalization and Preservation: Launching comprehensive programs aimed at preserving and revitalizing our language, arts, and cultural practices. This would involve partnerships with elders and knowledge keepers to ensure the transmission of traditional knowledge to younger generations, alongside the integration of our culture into educational curriculums.

2. Sustainable Economic Development: Crafting an economic strategy rooted in community values and environmental stewardship. This approach will investigate avenues such as green energy ventures, sustainable farming practices, and eco-tourism projects.

3. Health and Wellness: Implementing holistic health initiatives that address both physical and mental health needs, with a particular focus on culturally sensitive healthcare services, mental health support, and substance abuse programs. Emphasis will be placed on accessible, community-driven health resources and services.

4. Education and Youth Empowerment: Strengthening educational opportunities that are culturally relevant and accessible to all community members. Initiatives would focus on mentorship programs, vocational training, and scholarships aimed at empowering youth to pursue higher education and meaningful careers within and outside the community.

5. Housing and Infrastructure: Committing to the development of quality housing and the improvement of essential infrastructure. This will ensure that all community members have access to safe, quality housing and reliable services, including clean water, and enhanced public works.

6. Conservation Leadership: Spearheading initiatives to safeguard our natural habitats and ancestral hunting territories, committed to preserving wildlife and indigenous plant life for future generations’ sustenance and cultural practices.

7. Partnerships and Collaboration: Building strong relationships with other Indigenous communities, governmental bodies, and non-Indigenous allies to advocate for our rights and interests. Through collaboration, we can leverage collective strength in negotiations and initiatives that benefit our community and beyond. Each of these initiatives will be developed in consultation with the community, ensuring that our actions are reflective of our collective needs, aspirations, and the principles of self-determination and sovereignty. My leadership will be characterized by transparency, inclusivity, and a steadfast commitment to the well-being and prosperity of our people.

The election at James Smith has been scheduled for March 28 and voting will occur at Bernard Constant School gym.

Also running for Chief are Darrel Burns, Marcia Burns and the incumbent Wally Burns.

The Headperson candidates are KC Moostoos, Tanya Moostoos, Devin Marion Justin Burns, Alvin G. Moostoos, Loretta E. Burns, Eldeen McKay, Gerald McKay, Byron Daniels, Cassie Constant, Dinah Marion, and Gloria Burns.

James Smith is one of three reserves that make up James Smith Cree Nation. The election at Chakastaypasin is in the Fall and Peter Chapman’s is next spring.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell