SaskEnergy unveils Indigenous-led safety campaign with designs by local artist

SaskEnergy has unveiled its new Indigenous-led safety campaign, aiming to help teach Indigenous communities about the dangers of digging near a gas line and what to do if someone smells natural gas.

The billboard campaign was designed by Saskatchewan Indigenous artist Jade Roberts, and her work will be installed in 52 gasified First Nations communities around the province.

“SaskEnergy and the Government of Saskatchewan recognize the importance of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action,” Lisa Lambert, MLA for Saskatoon Churchill-Wildwood, said on Wednesday.

“By installing these new signs, SaskEnergy is demonstrating its commitment to building meaningful, long-term relationships with Indigenous groups and communities.”

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Roberts was given total freedom to design what she wanted for the campaign. She said that’s a big deal for anyone looking to express a message through artwork.

“That was huge,” she said.

“As an artist, I love to be able to do that. I really got to take control over my own artwork, so that was really nice.”

Roberts said she hopes that having her work will resonate with Indigenous communities.

“A lot of people are going to see it in the province, which is really cool,” she explained. “Especially for folks in reserve – I grew up in the community, and it’s just nice people are going to be able to see and experience my art. It’s really cool.”

Chief Darcy Bear of the Whitecap Dakota First Nation said he pleased to see the design.

“SaskEnergy has provided natural gas capacity to our nation since the mid 1980s, and together we have made safety awareness a top priority,” Bear said.

“Today marks that continued effort, and we are pleased to see this new, Indigenous-designed reminder about natural gas safety. We welcome this new addition and congratulate Jade Roberts on this design.”

SaskEnergy said it will work with gasified First Nations to get their signs installed during summer, and set a goal to complete the work by the fall.