Walter Deiter facts for kids

Walter Perry Deiter was an important First Nations leader in Canada. He was born on May 31, 1916, and passed away on September 7, 1988. Walter Deiter helped create the National Indian Brotherhood in 1968. This group is now known as the Assembly of First Nations, which represents First Nations people across Canada.

Early Life and Education

Walter Deiter was born on the Peepeekisis Reserve. This reserve is located near Balcarres, Saskatchewan. His father was from the Cree nation, and his mother was from the Saulteaux nation.

As a young person, Walter attended residential schools. He went to schools in File Hills, Saskatchewan, and later in Brandon, Manitoba. He completed his Grade 10 education there.

In 1939, Walter Deiter joined the Regina Regiment to serve his country. He finished his basic training. During this time, he faced a health challenge that required him to spend four years in Fort San Hospital. While there, he continued his studies. He completed Grade 12 and also earned a certificate in business administration.

Family Life

Walter Deiter married Inez Wuttunee in 1951. Inez was from the Red Pheasant Cree Nation.

A Career of Leadership

Walter Deiter dedicated his life to helping First Nations communities. In 1958, he and his wife, Inez, played a key role in starting the Saskatoon Friendship Centre. These centres help Indigenous people connect with their culture and community.

After moving to Regina, Walter became the first Indigenous president of the Regina Indian and Métis Friendship Centre. He held this position from 1962 to 1967.

In 1966, he became the head of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations. He served in this role until 1968. During this time, he worked with the Premier of Saskatchewan, Ross Thatcher. They discussed a plan to hire more First Nations and Métis people in the provincial government.

Walter Deiter also helped develop plans for Native Metal Industries Ltd. This was a business controlled by Indigenous people. He also helped organize the Indian Association of Alberta and the Manitoba Indian Brotherhood.

National Leadership

Walter Deiter was very important in creating the National Indian Brotherhood in Canada. He was its first president, serving from 1968 to 1970. This organization worked to improve conditions for First Nations people across the country.

After his time as president, Walter Deiter continued his work. In 1970, he formed the Native Alcohol Council. This group aimed to support Indigenous people facing challenges.

In 1977, Walter Deiter was elected as a band councillor for the Peepeekisis First Nation. He also worked as a consultant for the Federation of Saskatchewan Indians (FSI) in 1978.

Supporting Veterans

Walter Deiter also cared deeply about Indigenous military veterans. In 1978, he helped create the National Indian Veterans Association. This group worked to ensure Indigenous veterans received fair treatment from the government. In 1980, he also served as the Southern President of the Saskatchewan Indian Veterans' Association.

In 1979, Walter Deiter was one of five leaders who traveled to the British Parliament. They spoke about the concerns of Indigenous Peoples in Canada regarding the new Canadian Constitution.

Walter Deiter was recognized for his important work. He was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada. This award honored his efforts to improve education and social conditions for First Nations people.

Walter Deiter passed away in Regina. He was buried on the Okanese Reserve.