As election day approaches across the nation, party candidates are making themselves—and their parties’ platforms—known to their constituents. For the New Democratic Party, Doug Racine will be the candidate for the Desnethé–Missinippi–Churchill River riding.
Racine, who is a descendant of the Red River Métis with roots in the Turtle Mountains, worked alongside his father on the family trapline, learning traditional practices and understandings as a young boy. At the age of 15, he became a registered hunting guide and was able to share his knowledge with others in the community and while out on the land.
As a young man, Racine joined the military, where he served for 12 years. His service included an overseas peacekeeping tour, and he was a part of the Special Service. After his military service, Racine completed his law degree and practised criminal, civil and administrative law for 25 years.
With his expertise in law, Racine founded and led the Aboriginal Law Group, a firm with five Indigenous lawyers located on the Muskeg Lake Urban Reserve. He has also represented Indigenous organizations and communities throughout the years, including at the Nuclear Safety Commission, the National Energy Board and the Gunnar Mine uranium clean-up. He also appeared at the highest level of court in Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia, as well as helping with hundreds of residential school claims.
Along with his notable career, Racine has also been a director on the board of a co-operative health clinic, is active in the Forest Protection Network, the Fish Lake Métis, and also ran in the provincial election as an NDP candidate in the Saskatchewan Rivers constituency.
In an interview with SaskToday, Racine said he would represent his constituents by attending events and taking the time to talk and listen to voters.
“I will be accessible, in person and through other means. I will fight against injustice and advocate for all constituents, irrespective of their political affiliation,” said the candidate.
He would like to see more affordable and accessible housing projects tailored for northern communities and see Duty to Consult replaced with Nation-to-Nation negotiations.
“I understand that the need to live healthy, sustainable lives in the North depends on the degree to which treaties are honoured and traditional lands are respected. I will be a strong advocate for these Indigenous rights locally, nationally and if necessary, internationally,” added Racine.
He also added that he believes there is wealth generated from northern Saskatchewan that should be used to benefit the communities and people of the area, and wants to ensure there is housing, mental health and addiction treatment available to everyone, when and where they need it.
Advance polls are open April 18 to 21 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and election day is April 28. Be sure to check your voter information card to find your assigned polling station and the voting hours.
