The position of Grand Chief was created to provide the Confederacy with a single voice on political matters. The Grand Chief takes direction from the Chiefs in Assembly and is under a sacred trust to comply with this direction. The Grand Chief shall also be the Chair of the Chiefs Executive Committee. 

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The Chiefs determine within their area who they will put forward as the spokesperson for the Confederacy of Treaty Six to be named Grand Chief. The position of the Grand Chief is rotated by Tribal Councils and Independent Nations. The position is for a one-year term.

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Grand Chief Biography

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Chief Greg Desjarlais hails from Frog Lake, Alberta, and his diverse journey has led him through a wide range of roles, including farming, recreational programming, economic development, and significant contributions to the Oil & Gas sector. His leadership has been especially impactful in the governance of First Nations.

 

Passionate about sports and empowering youth, Chief Desjarlais’ love for these areas is deeply intertwined with the cultural wisdom passed down by his parents, Albert and Alma Desjarlais. This foundation has guided him throughout his personal and professional life.

 

Currently in his 4th term as the elected Chief of Frog Lake First Nation, Chief Desjarlais bears the important responsibility of serving this Nation. His leadership is centered on ensuring the Nation’s prosperity and well-being, focusing on fiscal health, accountability, and the preservation of community assets. He is dedicated to conducting business responsibly and safeguarding the values and needs of the community.

 

Beyond his role as Chief, he sits on various boards and has played a pivotal role in numerous Indigenous stakeholder engagement initiatives, all aimed at improving the quality of life within Indigenous communities. A strong advocate for Treaty rights and First Nations' inclusion at all levels of decision-making, he is deeply committed to advocating for the recognition and respect of Treaty rights. Greg was instrumental in the development of the T.R.E.A.T.Y. Model Mapping for Integrated Services, created by the Tribal Chiefs Employment and Training Services Association, believing that clear direction is essential to the success of any program.

 

Chief Desjarlais has supported Indigenous organizations working to enhance opportunities in training, education, and employment, always standing firm for First Nations’ self-reliance. He sees economic prosperity as a key pillar of reconciliation.

 

Known for his commitment and respected by all who work with him, Chief Desjarlais also enjoys a fulfilling personal life. He is married to Benita, and together they have two sons, a daughter, and five grandchildren, who continue to enrich their lives with love and joy.

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Grand Chief inquiries can be directed to:

Kayli Avveduti

Executive Director

Kayli@treatysix.org