September 17, 2023
Post from Chief Randy Ermineskin
I want to begin with cheering on all our students who returned to school these past few weeks whether it be grade school on up to college, university and even back into continuing education. It’s never too late to start. Keep your dreams.
I also want to congratulate our Ermineskin nation members who received their certificates, diplomas and degrees this past weekend at Maskwacis Cultural Colleges Grad ceremony. We are very proud of your accomplishments.
At the political level during my term, we had to make decisions to protect the nation and one example was when we faced Covid in 2020 and we had our first case. We were uncertain on how to navigate this pandemic, but thankfully our focus was safety first.
I personally thank Emergency Operations Committee (EOC) for the their hard work even when I saw the criticism they faced. There were times when we had to wait for Alberta Health to provide us with information on how to manage.
Moving forward, we know we will always have new leadership but the focus has to be consistent in promoting, protecting and advancing our Treaty and Inherent Rights. It is going to be critical in the days ahead and engaging all membership in decisions will be important.
In regard to our strategic plan, I am proud of our nation for participating in the first ever nation-wide strategic plan we did in 2020-21. This process pushed for needed changes and an improved organizational structure to better serve our community.
On another note, I would like to commend our Maskwacis Kokums who are warring against drugs and taking a stand toward a better and safe community. They have plans on doing a Rally on September 27th at the NOK building.
My next post will include my summaries of the three main council matters of which I had directed our leadership to put focus on at the beginning of my term in 2020-21 and how each has transpired to date.
Ekosi pitama.