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Chief Elaine Chicoose, daughter of the Late Edward and Dolly Chicoose. Elaine received her elementary education at Pasqua Day School and her high school education was completed at Bert Fox Composite High in Fort Qu’Appelle, Saskatchewan. She attended University of Regina for 1 ½ years in the Arts and Science Program, then went to SIAST Palliser Campus where she received a Diploma in Business Administration.
Elaine has always believed in working for the betterment of First Nations where she worked in various organizations starting with the Regina Native Women’s Organization as an advocate for aboriginal women and children’s rights and programs.
She also worked for the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations in the accounting department for five years and the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College for 2 years.
In 1984, she returned to her First Nation and was employed as Band Manager for nine years. This experience assisted her in her present position of Chief of Pasqua.
She was also the Director of the Qu’Appelle Haven Safe Shelter from April 1993 to 2000 again advocating for the rights of women and children.
The positions that she was employed in has given her insight into the barriers that First Nation people face on a daily basis and strengthens her conviction of eliminating these barriers for future generations.
Elaine began her political career when she was elected as Band Councilor in 1985. She was elected Chief in 2001 and is presently serving her 3rd term as Chief.
Throughout her political career, Elaine has brought her beliefs and values of honesty, integrity and fairness with her. She has a vision for her community of accountability and equality and strives for success for the members of her community through economic development and self-sufficiency.
Elaine has a strong belief in the youth and has developed initiatives with the youth that will assist them in the future. She believes in strengthening their self-esteem and giving them the inspiration they require to carry them on to become the leaders of tomorrow.
Under her leadership, the Pasqua First Nation has developed economically, the Paskwa Pit Stop is one example and the opening of a post office in the near future is an example of the vision that she has for her community. Her plans include the development of Asham’s Beach as a major eco-tourism site, which will attract many tourists both locally, regionally and internationally. The development will employ band members and expand the economic base of Pasqua.
In terms of accountability for the future, policies have been developed and are in place. The Membership Act, Land Act and the Pasqua First Nation Constitution are currently being developed that will assist the band in running smoothly for future generations. These Acts will be voted and ratified by the membership of Pasqua and will give Voice to the People.
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