History will be made today, as the first Indigenous person will be appointed as the new Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan.
Russell Mirasty has been tapped to be the Queen’s representative, taking over for the late Thomas Molloy.
Mirasty was appointed Wednesday by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and says at first he was in disbelief about his new role.
“Initially it was disbelief because I never thought I’d be considered for such a position. But, once I started going through the process and when the Prime Minister finally called to offer me the position, of course I accepted. And then I started to look forward to exactly what I have to do,” Mirasty said.
Mirasty, a 36 year veteran of the RCMP was the first Indigenous person to command a division of the national police force.
“I’ve always been proud to talk about where I come from who I am and my [Cree] language. Its moments like this I think about elders who have gone past, particularly my grandparents and what they would think. They would understand what the word Queen means,” Mirasty explained.
Mirasty, a member of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band still maintains a home in La Ronge.
“Russell has always come home to La Ronge. He’s always maintained that connection to our communities. He’s very down to earth, he’s very approachable,” said Lac La Ronge Indian Band Chief Tammy Cook-Searson.
“With a deep connection to Saskatchewan’s Indigenous communities and a background of service with the RCMP, Mr. Mirasty will bring a valuable perspective to a role that has a rich history of service to the people of Saskatchewan,” Premier Scott Moe explained.
The swearing in ceremony will take place this morning at 8:30 at the Government House in Regina.
(Photo courtesy of Sask. government.)