Chief Darcy Bear of the Whitecap Dakota First Nation received Canada’s highest civilian honour just days before he celebrated a major milestone in his career in leadership.
Governor-General Mary Simon officially invested Chief Bear into the Order of Canada Oct. 3 at a ceremony held in Ottawa.
Chief Bear’s appointment came in recognition of his “visionary leadership and tireless efforts to improve the quality of life for his community” and innovation in First Nation governance and economic development, according to an announcement issued by the Governor-General’s office.
Having first entered leadership as a band councillor in 1991, Chief Bear went on to become Chief in 1994, and this year marked his 30th year in office on Oct. 6.
With the support of his community, council and Elders, Chief Bear’s time in leadership has seen several major projects undertaken on the Whitecap Dakota First Nation, including a new elementary school, an early learning centre, rollout of high-speed Internet service and the development of the Dakota Dunes Resort.
Chief Bear has previously been appointed to the Saskatchewan Order of Merit, and holds an honourary law degree from the University of Saskatchewan among several other honours, awards and commendations for leadership and economic development.
The Saskatoon Tribal Council congratulates Chief Bear on his most recent well-deserved honour, and recognizes all the members of the Whitecap Dakota First Nation whose hard work has been key to the success of their community.
