The Horizon School Division presented a unique look at the world of modern agriculture to its students on Tuesday, June 10, with its Agriculture Day. Along with an overview of the latest technologies and practices in farming, students learned about the strong connection between Indigenous people and the land, with an historical take on agriculture and the recovery of farming practices on First Nations land from a former Chief who has been at the forefront of a promising farming movement.
Cadmus Delorme is a Cree and Saulteaux leader from Cowessess First Nation, known for his leadership, vision, and commitment to reconciliation. During his time as Chief from 2016 to 2023, he led major agricultural developments, including the expansion of Cowessess’s grain farming and cattle operations—work that contributed to a stronger, more self-sustaining future for the Nation.
Cadmus led his First Nation through the trials of the discovery of graves near the former residential school at Marieval, an event that caught international attention. Under his leadership, Cowessess became the first First Nation in Canada to sign an agreement with the federal government to regain jurisdiction over child welfare, restoring decision-making power to the community.
Now, former Chief Delorme combines his knowledge with humility, compassion and humour to teach people about Truth and Reconciliation and the expanding opportunities for Indigenous people.
"Truth and Reconciliation is now 10 years old in this country," Delorme said in an interview which encapsulates his message. "If you benefit from this great province and land, you are a part of the marathon—no one is in the grandstands today."
Delorme stressed that today’s students are among the first to learn the full truth of Canada’s colonial history at the kitchen table, something prior generations—such as Baby Boomers and Generation X—did not experience.
“We don’t blame the prior generations,” he explained. “The education system didn’t teach them. But now Millennials and the generations of today are learning what cultural sensitivity means, what Orange Shirt Day means, what Indigenous Peoples Day means.”
Delorme emphasized that the most important place to talk about reconciliation is not just the classroom or legislative halls—but around the kitchen table.
“Sometimes what youth are being taught today in schools as the absolute truth, when they bring it home, there may be debate or disagreement,” he said. “And that’s okay—we need to understand that our brains are wired now to understand this moment.”
Recovering Agricultural Roots
Delorme also addressed the long-standing but often overlooked agricultural history of Indigenous peoples—a tradition that was systematically disrupted through colonial policies.
“Our ancestors were the first farmers on this land,” Delorme said. “After treaties were signed, First Nations became successful farmers in grain and cattle. But policies, misunderstandings, and the Indian Act prevented that success from continuing.”
He recounted how his community at Cowessess First Nation revived its agricultural roots through strategic partnerships and long-term planning.
“We started by borrowing equipment from local non-Indigenous farmers. Eventually, we bought a full fleet. Today, we operate grain and cattle farms that are successful and competitive,” he noted.
Progress wasn’t easy, he admitted. Delorme explained that the Indian Act complicates business development on reserve lands, making it difficult to access traditional financing and infrastructure support available to non-Indigenous farmers.
“You can’t do this alone,” Delorme said. “You need partnerships. But to have trusting partnerships, you first need to understand the true history—on both sides.”
A Vision for the Future
Delorme underscored that reconciliation is not just a social obligation—it’s an economic opportunity.
“This isn’t about abrogating rights or degrading treaties,” he clarified. “This is business. If we do this right—combining Indigenous and non-Indigenous reconciliation efforts—this province will lift in GDP, in economics, and in social relationships.”
His message was clear: reconciliation is not a spectator sport. It’s a shared journey—rooted in truth, trust, and partnership. He repeatedly referred to the process as a “marathon of Reconciliation,” acknowledging that the steps are shared.
“Today’s youth are ready. Their brains are wired to understand this moment,” Delorme concluded. “Now it’s up to all of us to walk that path together.”