Muskoday celebrates re-naming of bridge

“As a leader I have hope that we will continue to build our relationships with people in all direction and all cultures”

Chief Ron Bear. (Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

Among the dignitaries in attendance was Highways Minister Kim Gartner.

“Today is about recognizing an individual whose leadership helped shape the future of this community and whose legacy continues to be felt generations later,” he said.

The bridge’s initial opening ceremony was held on Oct. 20, 1970. Gartner commented on the fact it is used by many people travelling throughout the region.

“Today it becomes more than a transportation link; it becomes a visible reminder of the history, the leadership and the partnership that continue to connect us.”

Tuesday’s ceremony came just days before the community celebrates the signing of Treaty 6 and has a number of activities planned.

Gartner stated the decision and work done to rename the bridge show treaties are living documents that continue to guide relationships today.

Noting a similar ceremony held in Saskatoon for the Chief Mistawasis Bridge, Saskatoon Tribal Council Chief Marc Arcand said there is not enough recognition honouring the history of First Nations people.

“So when we start with little wins like this, it makes a big difference to the next win that’s going to come and the next win after that, because the accomplishments of First Nations people are significant,” he said.

(Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

Arcand recalled how, when the bridge was built, the government wanted to name it the Birch Hills bridge, but the people of Muskoday stood their ground.

“That’s the history that people need to know about the people of Muskoday.”

On behalf of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN), FSIN Vice-Chief Dutch Lerat acknowledged the previous leaders in attendance including former Chiefs Herman Crain and Ava Bear.

“Thank you for the hard work you’ve done on behalf of our collective across the province,” he said.

“This is history.”

In his closing remarks, Chief Ron Bear told the highways minister the next plan is to have the speed reduced on the highway that passes through the community.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

by Nigel Maxwell

Muskoday celebrates re-naming of bridge

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