Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) stands as a beacon of resilience and determination in Northern Alberta. Rooted in a rich tapestry of Métis heritage, our Nation continuously engages with municipal, provincial, and federal governments to uphold the rights of our Citizens and foster community development.

Upholding Section 35 Rights

Our traditional territory spans from Dore Lake in the south to Lake Athabasca in the north, encompassing regions that predate provincial boundaries. This land is not just geography; it’s the essence of our identity, culture, and way of life.

In June 2025, WLMN filed a Federal Court application seeking judicial review of Canada’s failure to fulfill its duty to consult regarding proposed uranium development projects in the Clearwater River watershed. These projects threaten our environment and infringe upon our constitutionally protected rights under Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. 

Collaborating with Provincial Partners

Recognizing the importance of provincial collaboration, WLMN has actively engaged with Alberta’s government to protect our economic interests. In 2021, alongside Fort McKay Métis Nation, we received over $372,000 through Alberta’s Indigenous Litigation Fund to challenge the federal Oil Tanker Moratorium Act. This legislation hinders our ability to participate in resource development, affecting our community’s prosperity. 

Additionally, WLMN’s Indigenous Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Pathway Project, supported by a $480,000 grant from the Indigenous Natural Resource Partnerships Program, exemplifies our commitment to sustainable development. This initiative integrates Indigenous knowledge with modern sustainability practices, positioning our Nation as a leader in responsible resource management. 

Engaging with Municipalities

At the municipal level, WLMN fosters partnerships that respect our sovereignty and promote mutual growth. Through agreements with neighbouring municipalities, we ensure that services and developments within our traditional territories align with our community’s values and needs.

Our collaboration with Suncor Energy through the Astisiy Limited Partnership is a testament to successful municipal-indigenous partnerships. This venture not only provides economic benefits but also ensures that our Nation has a say in projects affecting our lands. 

Addressing Environmental Concerns

Environmental stewardship is integral to WLMN’s mission. Following toxic tailings pond leaks at Imperial Oil’s Kearl Lake site, WLMN expressed deep concerns over delayed notifications and potential impacts on our traditional harvesting areas. We continue to advocate for timely communication and involvement in environmental monitoring to safeguard our Citizens’ health and the land’s integrity. 

Strengthening Governance and Cultural Retention

Under the leadership of Executive Director Stella Lavallee, WLMN emphasizes transparent governance and cultural preservation. Our Seven Pillars of Governance guide our decisions, ensuring that every action taken benefits our Citizens and honours our heritage.

Initiatives like cultural camps and traditional knowledge-sharing programs reinforce our commitment to cultural retention. By integrating traditional practices with contemporary governance, we ensure that our community remains vibrant and resilient. 

Looking Ahead

WLMN’s proactive engagement with all levels of government underscores our dedication to our Citizens’ rights and community development. Through legal actions, partnerships, and cultural initiatives, we strive to build a future where our Nation thrives, our culture flourishes, and our rights are unequivocally respected.

For more information on our initiatives and partnerships, visit www.wlmn.ca.