Métis Nation of Saskatchewan mourns death of former leader Louis Gardiner

The Métis Nation of Saskatchewan mourns the recent passing of one of its former leaders, Louis Gardiner. According to a social media post, Gardiner served as a provincial treasurer, a Northern Region 3 regional representative, and a local president for the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan. He was also a survivor of the Île-à-la-Crosse Boarding School, a facility for Métis and First Nations children that operated from the 1820s until its destruction in the 1970s.

Survivors of the boarding school reported being prohibited from speaking their language and frequently beaten for doing so, leading to the loss of their culture and identity. Gardiner himself revealed in a recent interview that he was not permitted to use his name but instead received a number, a condition he likened to life in prison.

The Métis Nation of Saskatchewan praised Gardiner for his kindness, integrity, determination, and lifelong commitment to the Métis Nation. They emphasized that his contributions had advanced justice for survivors and strengthened the Nation for future generations, expressing deep regret for his loss.

Saskatchewan recently announced a $40 million payout to former students of the boarding school and their families. The federal government had previously agreed to a $27 million settlement in principle for school survivors and promised a $10 million fund for projects aimed at healing, education, language preservation, and cultural development.