Edward (Dutch) Lerat is a member of the Cowessess First Nation of Saskatchewan, Canada. Edward has served Indian Governments of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations for a period of 19 years. During this time he served as Executive Assistant to the Chief of Saskatchewan Indians and later got seconded to the Federal Government in Ottawa as Special Assistant to Minister Argue. In 1984 he was elected as Second Vice-Chief for the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, in 1995 he began his fifth term with the FSIN as an elected Vice-Chief. During this period of time, Mr. Lerat served on many Boards and Commissions, and was Regional Vice-Chief to the Assembly of First Nations of Canada.

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In February, 1996, Vice-Chief Edward (Dutch) Lerat was seconded to the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority as Acting Chief Executive Officer. Edward was an instrumental player in the establishment of Casinos in four Saskatchewan Communities under First Nations jurisdiction and control.

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From August, 1996 to June 2000, Mr. Lerat was appointed to the position of Chief Executive Officer, for the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority.

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In April 2004, Edward was elected Urban Councillor for the Cowessess First Nation and has served two consecutive terms. He continues to be instrumental in pursuing programs and services for the Urban Cowessess Membership.

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In October 2009, Edward was elected Third Vice Chief for the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations.