Saskatchewan has a new Treaty Commissioner.
Dr. Kathy Walker, of Okanese First Nation, took up the role last week officially starting her tenure on September 30 to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Speaking with MBC News, Walker says she decided to pursue the position because she believes treaties are the way forward for reconciliation.
“I grew up hearing about the treaties, among my elders, and my parents, within my family, within my community,” she said. “I was raised on the vision of the treaties, so it’s something that I really strongly believe in.”
Dr. Walker spoke highly of the work the Office of the Treaty Commissioner has done in previous years and she says she hopes to continue that work.
She also spoke on her familial upbringing and the relationships she has built in her professional career and says she hopes to bring her history of building good relationships into this new role.
“I try to maintain really good relationships, with my family and in community. I think that is something that’s really important that I bring to this role and also something that motivates me as well.”
Walker takes over from Mary Culbertson who served in the role for 6 years. Culbertson was also the first woman selected as Treaty Commissioner.
Walker reflected on being the second woman to serve in the position.
“Well, I think I’m a reflection of all of the strong indigenous resilient, matriarchs and women, and I honor that.”
Dr. Walker comes to the role after being a lecturer and associate professor at the University of Saskatchewan for the previous 7 years.
She has also spent several years as part of the Saskatchewan Homeless Advisory Board.
Her mandate should last for around 5 years.
(Photo courtesy otc.ca)