Jerry Saddleback

Jerry Saddleback is the Dean of Cultural Programs and Elder-in-Residence for Maskwacîs Cultural College in Maskwacîs, Treaty Six. He was given this position by the 4 chiefs of Maskwacîs and it was given to him for life. He also teaches Cree and Protocol evening classes in Enoch and Edmonton. He used his education and Cree language skills to also do ground-breaking field research for Confederacy of Treaty Six, interviewing numerous Elders on language, Culture, ceremonies, songs, Treaty and our Story of Creation. Jerry’s knowledge was used extensively as a Spiritual Advisor for the Truth & Reconciliation Commission. Jerry Saddleback was recognized as Role Model, as Keeper of Knowledge and many other awards. He was chair of Cree Language Committee that drafted the Cree Language Declaration. He is Elder to many organizations, institutions, projects, and government committees. He continues the legacy of our Old People travelling wherever he is invited, to share the stories, language, Culture, ceremonies, songs and Story of Creation to all members of the Plains Cree family and other nations, educational institutions and conferences. Most recently, Jerry Saddleback was a delegate to the International Language Conference in Paris, France, and said opening prayers for the United Nations in New York.