Buckley Belanger

Buckley Belanger is a prominent Métis politician from Saskatchewan, Canada, with a lengthy and impactful career in provincial politics. Born in 1960 in Ile-a-la-Crosse, a northern Saskatchewan community with a significant Métis population, Belanger’s roots are deeply intertwined with the province’s northern and Indigenous cultures. This connection informed his political priorities and shaped his approach to representing his constituents.

Belanger served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the riding of Athabasca from 1995 to 2021, representing the New Democratic Party (NDP). His tenure of over two and a half decades made him one of the longest-serving MLAs in Saskatchewan history, earning him the unofficial title of “Dean of the Legislature” towards the end of his career.

Throughout his time in the legislature, Belanger was a vocal advocate for northern Saskatchewan and Indigenous communities. He consistently championed issues related to resource management, environmental protection, education, and healthcare access in the north. He understood the unique challenges faced by these communities, often located in remote areas with limited infrastructure and resources, and he worked tirelessly to bring their concerns to the forefront of provincial policy discussions.

Belanger held several key roles within the NDP opposition caucus, including serving as critic for portfolios such as First Nations and Métis Relations, Northern Affairs, and Environment. In these positions, he scrutinized government policies, offered alternative proposals, and held the government accountable for its actions, particularly regarding its impact on northern communities and Indigenous rights.

Beyond his role as a legislator, Belanger was a strong proponent of reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. He actively participated in initiatives aimed at promoting understanding, respect, and collaboration between different cultures. He consistently emphasized the importance of addressing historical injustices and working towards a more equitable future for all Saskatchewan residents.

In 2021, Belanger resigned from his seat in the legislature to run as the Liberal Party candidate in the federal riding of Desnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River. Although he was unsuccessful in his bid for a seat in the House of Commons, his decision reflected his continued commitment to public service and his desire to advocate for northern and Indigenous issues on a national stage. He brought considerable experience and name recognition to the Liberal campaign, focusing on issues such as clean drinking water, improved infrastructure, and addressing the opioid crisis in northern communities.

Even after leaving provincial politics, Buckley Belanger’s legacy remains significant. He is remembered as a dedicated and passionate advocate for northern Saskatchewan and Indigenous peoples, and his contributions to the province’s political landscape will continue to be felt for years to come. His long and impactful career serves as an example of the importance of representation and advocacy in ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are heard and respected within the halls of power.