Lyle Whitefish chosen as Saskatchewan Rivers candidate

Whitefish is the principal at Mistahi Sipiy Elementary School on the Big River First Nation, and has taught at both provincial and First Nations schools. He graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a degree in education in 1994.

“Equality for all people starts with a strong education for every child,” said Whitefish. “One of the reasons I decided to join Cam Broten’s team is his vision for education as a priority, valuing students and families, and consulting parents and teachers every step of the way.

“I agree with Cam, that Saskatchewan’s prosperity should translate into opportunities for all our young people, fairness and affordability for all families, and dignity and security for all our elders. And Saskatchewan's prosperity should mean investments in our roads and infrastructure and it should deliver a much-needed second bridge for Prince Albert."

Whitefish and his wife Doris raised four children and now have five wonderful grandchildren. Lyle has been a band councillor, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, who served as chief, and his father, who was also a councillor. He has represented three bands for the Agency Chiefs Tribal Council, working on economic development, brighter futures and treaty rights. In 2006, he was elected as the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations fourth vice-chief, working on many files over his tenure including education. He has sat on many boards and commissions, as well as the Indian Oil and Gas Committee and the Indian Resource Council.