A message from SGEU President Tracey Sauer:

On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we pause to reflect on the painful legacy of residential schools and honour the courage of Survivors, their families, and communities. As a union representing over 20,000 members across Saskatchewan, SGEU recognizes that reconciliation requires continuous, intentional action and a commitment to walking this path together.

On September 30, we celebrate and uplift our Indigenous members, while recognizing the vital role of allies across our organization who stand in solidarity. Moving forward with our members and broader community means turning shared values into meaningful steps forward.

Reconciliation requires continuous, intentional action and a commitment to walking this path together.

This year, we are proud to highlight our new Truth and Reconciliation t-shirt artwork, created in partnership with proud First Nations (Cree/nehiyaw) designer Tim Neal of The Engagement Party. Rooted in Cree understandings of balance and universal energy, the design draws inspiration from Jackson Beardy’s artistic style, featuring bold colors and abstract shapes that connect the natural and spiritual elements of sun, stars, air, land, and water.

At the center of this piece is mâmawi-wîcihitowin (ᒫᒪᐃᐧ ᐄᐧᒋᐦᐃᑐᐃᐧᐣ)—the core value of helping one another and working together. The Cree syllabics asici (ᐊᓯᒋ), meaning “with, together, in a group,” serve as a reminder of our collective responsibility in reconciliation.

As we wear these shirts, SGEU remains steadfast in advocating for Indigenous communities, including continuing our lobby for September 30th to be officially recognized as a provincial statutory holiday in Saskatchewan.

In solidarity,

Tracey Sauer
SGEU President

A message from SGEU Indigenous Vice-President Hali Topinka:

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a time for reflection, remembrance, and action. As SGEU’s Indigenous Vice-President, I want to acknowledge all of our Indigenous members, families, and allies who contribute every day to building stronger, more inclusive workplaces and communities. Reconciliation is an ongoing journey, and true progress happens when we commit to learning and growing together.

Reconciliation is an ongoing journey, and true progress happens when we commit to learning and growing together.

Moving forward requires creating hands-on opportunities to connect with history, land, and culture. Building on our ongoing education initiatives, I am thrilled to share that SGEU hosted our inaugural Cultural Camp this past summer with our union executive.

This captivating experience brought our leadership together to deepen our shared understanding through First Nations and Métis histories, traditional pow wow dance demonstrations and teachings, and first-hand accounts from Knowledge Keepers and Elders on their residential school experiences. Following the success of this pilot, our goal is to open this Cultural Camp up to our broader membership, creating a space for members across Saskatchewan to learn, connect, and reflect firsthand.

Whether through our educational programs, community advocacy, or grassroots gatherings, SGEU is committed to standing with Indigenous members and allies as we build a future rooted in respect, connection, and mutual support.

In solidarity,

Hali Topinka
SGEU Indigenous Vice-President