Freddie Sasakamoose Statue Unveiling

Yesterday on May 18, 2022, Saskatoon Tribal Council had the pleasure of witnessing the unveiling of the legendary Fred Sasakamoose statue at the SaskTel Centre in Saskatoon. This event is an important cultural milestone for First Nations people. STC took part in the celebration with friends and family of Sasakamoose and all groups of people, from First Nations, Metis, and Non-Indigenous people to honor the life of Fred “Freddie” Sasakamoose, 1933 – 2020.

Fred Sasakamoose a member of the Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation became the first-ever treaty Indian to play in the National Hockey League for the Chicago Blackhawks from 1953 to 1954.

In attendance Loretta and Neil Sasakamoose, Neil spoke on behalf of his family and especially his mother Loretta saying how his Father, Fred Sasakamoose told him

“Don’t let people forget who I am.”

The City of Saskatoon Mayor, Charlie Clark, presented Loretta with a framed proclamation of the Fred Sasakamoose Day that was originally announced on May 18 of 2021, Mayor Clarke had said, “how amazing in Saskatoon, Treaty Six Territory, the traditional homeland of the Metis, that kids walking up these steps will see Fred Sasakamoose on one side and Gordie Howe on the other, and be able to draw inspiration and strength.”

The Statue was approved by the City Council last year and was commissioned by the Synergy 8 Community Builders and partnered with Saskatoon Tribal Council, Dakota Dunes Community Development Corporation, and the Battleford Agency Tribal Chiefs.

“When we look at the investment of this statue, it’s not about the money, it’s about acknowledging the legacy of a man that produced relationships and partnerships with non-indigenous people, he promoted those things constantly and that’s what drives me to do what I do, in regards to how we work together.” – STC Tribal Chief Mark Arcand

Also, in attendance was Metis Nation President Glen McCallum, Deputy Minister for Indigenous Services Canada Christiane Fox, Province of Saskatchewan MLA Cheveldayoff, Vice President of the National Hockey League Rob Knesaurek, Chicago Blackhawks Brigette Lacquette, Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs Chief Larry Ahenakew, Synergy 8 Community Builders Troy Davies and many more.

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The statue was unveiled in advance of the Fred Sasakamoose “Chief Thunderstick” National Hockey championship, which is held from May 19 to 21 in Saskatoon.

In remembering Freddie, we want to thank his family for lending him to all of us, he was a truly inspirational individual. It was an honor to be there in attendance and an honor to meet all the people who were, and are impacted by Fred’s life.

 

“This is what brought me to where I am, it’s for you now, it’s for you now to follow the footsteps … You become what you want, your choice is great, much greater than mine.”

~ Freddie Sasakamoose ~