About Us
The Bear Claw Community Development Corporation (Bear Claw CDC) was established as part of the 2002 Gaming Framework Agreement (GFA) between the Government of Saskatchewan and the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN). This agreement created Community Development Corporations to manage funds generated by SIGA casinos located on reserves.
As the host Tribal Council for the Gold Eagle Casino, the South East Treaty #4 Tribal Council formed the Bear Claw CDC to support community growth and development.
Saskatchewan Indian Gaming and the Bear Claw Casino
In 1993, the White Bear First Nations became the first Treaty Nation to enter the gaming industry asserting their Indigenous right to gaming. Guided by community elders and in consultation with experienced Indigenous gaming operators across the medicine line, the leadership developed a plan focused on creating employment and economic development opportunities to their members. In February 1993, White Bear First Nations opened a modest gaming facility at the former White Bear Lake Golf Course club house; pioneering First Nations participation in Saskatchewan’s gaming industry.
The original Bear Claw Casino experienced significant growth, attracting many patrons for gaming entertainment. Anticipating legal challenges, the Nation reached an understanding with provincial authorities and the RCMP to cooperate if closure became necessary. However, negotiations did not occur as expected. On March 22, 1993, the RCMP conducted a forceful raid, shutting down the casino.
In response, the Nation united to defend their Indigenous rights in court, with support from the FSIN for legal and financial assistance. The subsequent establishment of the Gaming Framework Agreement in 1994 laid the foundation for First Nations in Saskatchewan.
History of Gaming in Saskatchewan
SIGA
Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA)
The Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) operates seven First Nations casinos across Saskatchewan, located within Treaty Four and Treaty Six Territories.
Casino Locations:
Dakota Dunes Casino – White Cap Dakota Nation, south of Saskatoon (2024-2025 CDC Allocation ($10.8 million)
Gold Eagle Casino – North Battleford (2024-2025 CDC Allocation $4.5 million)
Northern Lights Casino – Prince Albert (2024-2025 CDC Allocation $9.6 million)
Gold Horse Casino – Lloydminster
Living Skies Casino – Swift Current (2024-2025 CDC Allocation $825,232.00)
Painted Hand Casino – Yorkton (2024-2025 CDC Allocation $3.1 million)
Bear Claw Casino – White Bear First Nations (2024-2025 CDC Allocation $745,902.00)
Each casino reflects a unique theme inspired by its purpose and cultural history, offering guests an experience rooted in tradition and community.
Board of Directors
Lynn Bear, Chairperson – Headwoman, kakisiwew-ochapowace Nation
Brett Standingready, Co-chair – Councillor, White Bear First Nations
Lucille Dunn, Secretary/Treasurer – Mayor, Village of Manor, Sk.
Petra Belanger, Board Member – Headwoman, kakisiwew-ochapowace Nation
Albert George, Board Member – Headman, kakisiwew-ochapowace Nation
Tyler George, Board Member – Headperson, kakisiwew-ochapowace Nation
Tanya Littechief, Board Member – Councillor, White Bear First Nations
Debbie Anne Maxie, Board Member – Councillor, White Bear First Nations
Sheri McArthur, Board Member – Councillor, White Bear First Nations
Ray Boutin, Board Member – Councillor, Village of Kenosee Lake (January 2025-current)
Wayne Orsted, Board Member – Representative, Town of Carlyle
Velda Weatherald, Board Member – Councillor, Village of Kenosee Lake (Retired Dec 2024)
Jack Wilson, Board Member – Councillor, R.M. of Moose Mountain
Ex-officio’s:
okimaw iskwew Shelley A. Bear, kakisiwew-ochapowace Nation
Chief Jonathan Pasap, White Bear First Nations
Tara Gereaux, Ministry of Government Relations
Contact us
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