John Tootoosis facts for kids
John Baptiste Tootoosis was a very important Cree leader in Canada. He was born on July 18, 1899, on the Poundmaker Reserve in Saskatchewan and passed away on February 1, 1989. John Tootoosis was the grandson of Yellow Mud Blanket, who was the brother of the famous Cree leader, Poundmaker.
Quick facts for kids
John Tootoosis
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | July 18, 1899  Poundmaker Cree Nation |
| Died | February 1, 1989 (aged 89) |
| Awards |
|
Contents
Early Life and Family Connections
John Tootoosis was born on the Poundmaker Reserve in Saskatchewan. His parents were Mary Theresa and John Tootoosis. He grew up in a loving family.
When he was 13, he went to the Thunderchild Residential School. This school was also known as the Delmas Residential School. It was a Roman Catholic school near North Battleford, Saskatchewan.
At 17, John returned to his reserve. His father then started teaching him about community leadership.
His Family
In 1929, John married Louisa Angus from Thunderchild. She passed away in 1987. They had ten sons and three daughters. Many of their children and grandchildren became involved in arts and culture.
- His son, Gordon Tootoosis, became a famous actor.
- His son, Wilfred Tootoosis, was a performer and storyteller.
- His daughter, Jean Cuthand Goodwill, was the first Indigenous woman to finish a nursing program in Saskatchewan. She also wrote a book about her father.
- His grandson, Tyrone Tootoosis, was an activist, storyteller, and actor. He received the Canadian Diamond Jubilee medal.
John Tootoosis's Career and Leadership
In 1920, his community chose John Tootoosis to be their chief. However, the Canadian government's Department of Indian Affairs did not recognize him. This government branch was in charge of reserves. At the time, the Indian Act said a chief had to be 25 years old. Another chief was chosen instead.
Despite this, John Tootoosis continued to act as a leader. He worked hard for his people.
Leading Indigenous Organizations
In 1946, the Union of Saskatchewan Indians was formed. John Tootoosis became its president. Later, he served as a member of its executive committee.
In 1959, the union changed its name. It became the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN). John Tootoosis was chosen as its first president.
In 1970, he joined the FSIN's new senate. He served in this role for the next 19 years.
Recognition and Legacy
John Tootoosis was recognized for his important work. He was dedicated to finding solutions for his people's challenges. In 1986, he became a Member of the Order of Canada. This is a very high honor in Canada.
John Tootoosis passed away on February 2, 1989. He left behind a strong legacy of leadership and dedication to his community.
