In November Joan Beatty, the first Indigenous woman ever elected to the Saskatchewan legislature, was honoured at an event hosted by Saskatchewan’s NDP MLAs at the legislature.

Beatty served as the MLA for Cumberland from 2003 to 2008 before becoming the first Indigenous woman appointed to the Saskatchewan cabinet, serving as Minister of Culture, Youth and Recreation and Provincial Secretary.

“Joan is a trailblazer and has been a strong voice for northern people ever since I’ve known her,” said Treaty Commissioner of Saskatchewan, Dr. Kathy Walker. “She’s provided invaluable support and mentorship to so many and continues to be a strong community builder.”

Beatty was born in Deschambault Lake and is a member of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation. Prior to entering politics, she built a respected career in journalism as a broadcaster with the CBC, where she helped bring Indigenous voices, stories, and perspectives to a wide audience.

Throughout her career Beatty has demonstrated strong leadership grounded in community, culture, and public service.

Learn more about the event
Saskatchewan NDP honour Joan Beatty, first Indigenous woman elected as MLA (CTV News)
Saskatchewan NDP honours former NDP MLA, Joan Beatty (APTN News)

 

 

*Pictured From left to right: Brent Blakely, Kim Breckner, Jared Clarke, Carla Beck, Leroy Laliberte, Jordan McPhail, Betty Nippi-Albright, Joan Beatty, Sandra Morin, Jaqueline Roy, Darcy Warrington, Trent Wotherspoon, Tajinder Grewal, Keith Jorgensen, and Bhajan Brar. Submitted photo