willowlakemetis

Stephanie Harpe: Honoring her Mother and herself as a Survivor

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 16:55:33 GMT

I’m a survivor, I am a family advocate, and a family member. So, you know, coming from those realms its important to me to just share as much as I possibly can. My mother, Ruby Anne Macdonald, she was murdered her in Edmonton in 1999, was the you know awaking point for me of how we are treated in this country and what we had to fight through and what we’re still fighting through. It’s really sad though, you know my mother never received any kind of justice, no you know, no kind of care really, it was my Fort McKay family that came in to care for her while we were out there looking for the person who took her life. We were successful bringing him in but again I had to watch him walk away and that really broke me. I went into, you know, a lot of addiction and problems, and you know I just felt like I didn’t want to be here anymore. Unfortunately, years after that happened to my mother, it happened to me; a man tried to murder me off Yellowhead trail, and I had to fight for my life. And I ran so fast that I ran out of my shoes, so when I called for police to come they left me there, they never came because they asked what nationality is the woman that that happened to, and when I said Aboriginal or native, they left me there. So long walk home in my bare feet, and knowing this happens to my people, knowing this happens to our women and girls, and this is what happening to me, and after that I changed my life. That was about, that was twenty-seven years ago when that happened to me, I changed my life for the next twenty-six years and I dedicated my life for the past seventeen years is being an advocate and just sharing the story I shared with you, and sharing what happened to me, what happened to my mother is very important you know, I’m very lucky to be alive so, I feel that I have a responsibility in truth and a responsibility as a survivor and these different lenses to just make sure that I, you know, I try to get us safer, I try to educate, share truth, and make sure that we can make some kind of change, and just support those who need it and be a voice for others that don’t have it.

“As a way to honor your mom, what were some of her passions or goals, or is there anything else about her you would like to share” WLMN Interview Questions, (5:15, H.Williams).

Well my mother was a beautiful, beautiful woman, inside and out, and unfortunately she went to not only one but two residential schools, so she carried a lot of extra hurt, a lot of extra abuse, because she was such a beautiful girl, such a beautiful woman, that kind of attention in a survival time for her made it harder for her. But you know just being her daughter and you know, learning a lot about her she was a wonderfully talented dancer, she was one of the first gogo dancer, indigenous woman gogo dancer for the bands in Alberta, that was something she never shared with us, that’s something I found out later. And I was wondering why she would always put me in dance, she put me in modelling, she put me in acting, she do all this stuff for me. I was wondering, you know, so artistic, and why she always getting me out there which was just lovely that she’d do that for me. I remember being a little girl dancing in this pink tutu and I’d just like, looking at her like, you know, she never shared that with us. And then I found out too that she was just a wonderful hairdresser, she was a hairdresser and its funny because now that I remember as a little girl she’d used to do my hair, do my makeup, you know just like all these things with me and she taught me how to, you know, cook certain things, she was a wonderful cook, but so talented in the arts, just so talented, music lover, oh she loved music, she really loved music, so I think that’s where I got that from, so you know now I’m on stages, opening for big names, now im a professional recording artist, she made sure that we had a lot of music in the home, we always had music in the home, and she loved all kinds of music it doesn’t matter what kind it was, as long as it spoke to her, it spoke to us. I remember going through all the records we used to have so I’m really grateful for that. Music was my confidont, my friend, my healer, it still is. So yeah, those are some wonderful things about her. And also I just remember her beautiful hands, she had these beautiful hands and her handwriting was just immaculate so, those are some things I remember but I just remember her being so fun, loving person that was just so about life and creation, and you know so those are the beautiful things I remember about her.

“As a survivor, what are some key takeaways or truths that you want society to understand?” WLMN Interview Questions, (8:15, H. Williams)

As a survivor, that trauma bleeds into our everyday in different levels, I think that’s a big thing and our loved ones and what happened to us, it never goes away, it never goes away. It just depends on how we handle ourselves, how we react to things, how we take our steps in our healing journey. You know, I just want people to know that these horrible things that have happened to us historically are still happening to us today, and right now we are in a lot of danger, we’re still not safe. You know, that’s part of my job, is trying to change that and trying to keep us safe, and its really hard when the people who created the problem are doing the financial cutback to our solutions, so its really sad that our, you know, murdered and missing funding is now cut, so that’s a big issue for this country and the families. We have a lot of work to do We’re still going through genocide, we’re still going through racism, were still going through planned oppression, and when the legal system allows people to hurt us with minimal time, when a country doesn’t charge human traffickers with human trafficking, we’re in trouble. We’re the most hunted and targeted population in this country though its our own country, though we are the lowest population wherever we go, we are highly highly targeted ad hunted, because this country has told the public that we are disposable. And so, with things like the national inquiry, when the public and all people are not answering the calls, us survivors feel very failed, we feel very failed even still to this day. There’s not a justice system, it’s a legal system, and people say its broken, but we don’t believe it to be so, we just can’t go to the people that created the problem for the solutions, so we’re realizing that. I think that as survivors as well, we need more right leadership to be leaders for their people and community. I think more than ever right now when we keep being failed in these systems that’s don’t work for us, and yeah we need a lot more leadership to come back down to ground and you know, as a survivor and a grassroots person, I think grassroots is very very important and it should be more supported, that’s a big one. And as a survivor, I think we need to make a choice everyday of how much we love ourselves enough to build ourselves back up to heal, I think that’s the biggest thing is that many of us don’t value ourselves and we don’t love ourselves enough because we let the trauma pain block that, and we have to do everything we can to piece that little shell that’s broken within us in order to move forward, in order to take those steps everyday that we need to take. So, I think the most important thing is self love and self care, at this point as a survivor, and just making sure that we don’t leave ourselves behind on the back burner, though we try to move fiercely forward for others, we just have to remember not to forget ourselves for you.

“In terms of justice and healing, what do these words mean to you?” WLMN Interview question, (11:57, H. Williams)

Well, justice is a mythical thing, its not really, its not something you really see, its not something that we really hear in our communities. WE are utterly failed in justice, so that’s a word that’s not really used that much, I think, it’s a word for other people other than Indigenous People. So, you know, I don’t think we’re ever going to get the proper healing we deserve until we get the justice, we’re rightfully deserved. That’s a big thing, but we have a lot of people that don’t know truth, so when it comes to justice and healing, you need to know truth, you need to be woke, you can’t be in your slumper anymore, because only when we know the truth of what’s happening to our people can we actually make that change, and like I said I think with justice and healing, leadership has to take on a bigger role, leadership has to take on a bigger role, and also I think with justice and healing, the lateral violence has to go. I think that’s the biggest thing that prevents us from even having either of these things, especially the healing, because you know we are all at a place in an overpopulated world where mental health is an issue. We’re overstimulated, our phones are a curse and a blessing, I mean you know, we’re trying to find balance in this world right now, but yeah I think that justice and healing has a lot to do with just being a human being, I think we’re not acting like that much right now, because I just see these things out there changing, you know, they know what’s happening to us still nothing really being done to a point where we have the responsibility as families at our own home fighters to make them well and warm and inviting and healing ourselves within our own homes, because when we try to go to those places where they say there is healing, we’re failed there or forgotten there. And I think our men and boys have to be included in all of this as well, we can’t leave them out; they are some of the highest rates as well, and so I think that’s really important that we have our men and boys be the protectors and warriors they were always meant to be. But I think with healing, you know that’s been with us since time of memorial, the power that we have, the resilience that we have is always within us, but we let this trauma, this anger, this hurt, and this pain block that, so its really important to piece the broken child within us because then we can move forward better, and get that healing and then go fight for that justice, because right now we really have to fight, its such a horrific outrage how we are failed in that.

“Through events like this and when sharing your story, what are some final takeaways you would like society to learn from this?” Interview questions, (15:25, H. Williams)

So that’s the thing is you need to come down to ground to find truth, you need to come talk to survivors to extend on that truth, and you need the grassroots advocates and the community people that actually love their people and are actually doing the work to be more elevated and supported, you know, but with these cuts we’re in danger, we’re in danger more than ever now with these cuts. So, I don’t understand how any Canadian would allow this to happen when they know its happening to us. I think that, you know, we have to come together more, show up for one another more, and I just want the public to know that though this is happening to us, it is happening to so many. Yes we are the highest rates of everything awful in this country, but that is more of a strategic thing, this country does have an agenda against its owners, right, so you know, that’s our land, that’s our water, those are our trees, and I think we need to connect more to that as well. I think more Canadians need to just come together, show up for one another, you know when we are having these gatherings, when we are having these rallies and fights we need you to show up, we need you to have truth and correct those racist people when they say something; be a voice for us when we’re not around. And make sure you have the right people who are well and love their people, elevate them in those spaces and have all non-Canadians should be trained in all of this of what’s the truth and what’s really happening, and then its important for public to know the safety precautions of what’s happening when human trafficking is the fastest growing crime in this country. I think we have a lot more to do for each other. We need to be keeping each other safe, and not only that, we don’t need the smokescreen and distractions of people being separated, people fighting and arguing, because the fight isn’t between you and I, the fight is out there with the people who fail us everyday, so that’s the biggest thing; be your own advocate, be a voice for your people, and be a voice for those that are utterly failed, which is our population of peoples. You know, create that really great friendship that can always be created still, its not there yet, but I think that more people are awakening to truth, and when you have the truth that’s when you can truly make a change.

Peggy Johnson: Honoring her Son, Billy Jay Sharpehead

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 16:52:33 GMT

Well, he was uh, oh it’s hard to even talk about him right now, you know? He was a good kid, he lived his own life, and it wasn’t the best kind of life that I would’ve wanted him to have But he went off on his own, I think he was fourteen when he left. But he has a heart of gold, you had to know him to see that part of him, and the highest respect for women He couldn’t see a woman even carrying groceries and he would go and help them, even if he didn’t know them. He was like that with women. I had said that to him, I said, “Don’t ever touch a woman in anger, don’t ever hit a woman.” After a while I thought, “hmm I kinda sorry I said that because he’s the one that’s getting hit”, you know? But yeah, he was a good kid, just went down the wrong road with all his friends, in and out of jail, in and out of jail. When he was in jail, I was happy because I knew where he was, when he wasn’t, oh god, I’d just worry, if he’s still alive or whatever, you know? And turns out, that’s eventually what happened to him, somebody murdered him. We had a ceremony for him, just kind of put him to rest, we had kind of like a funeral for him, it was twenty-one years that we’ve been searching for him. And it’s kind of funny, most of the people that were there were girls, girls that he knew from the reserve, yeah they all came there. Not many guys, but girls he had. That’s about him in a nutshell.

“Regarding him, is there anything specific like his passions or goals that you would like to share about him?” WLMN Interview Questions (3:50, H. Williams).

I don’t think he had any goals because of the life he was leading, that was, that’s what he wanted to do and that’s where he stayed. But you know he was an awesome artist, from the time he was, I don’t know about seven or eight I first saw his drawings, I was just shocked. The talent he had, and he didn’t have to look at a picture to draw, he’d just do it on his own. We got some of his stuff, drawings and that that we’re trying to find, because all of a sudden they all went, people are hiding them or something but, yeah, he was artistic. You met him, you didn’t get that meanness off him, you just didn’t. He was just a funny kid who did his thing his own way.

“Are there any words you’d like to use to describe your healing through this?” WLMN Interview Questions (5:25, H. Williams)

Well, I don’t know. The strength I guess, I get from all the years we spent looking for him, trying to find him. But it’s always with me, not only the times we’re searching, I’ll think about him, somewhere along the way, I’ll think about him when I’m driving or something, but uh, I have a lot of regrets. I should have done this, I should’ve done that, I should’ve said this, not knowing we were gonna lose him at such a young age. But we did talk a lot just before he passed, every day we talked about his childhood. He really despised his dad, wanted nothing to do with him, yeah.

“With this campaign, is there anything you would hope certain people would understand from this?” (7:00, H. Williams)

I’m at a loss of what to say here, really. There’s so many people out there that don’t know where their loved ones are and they have to go out and look, don’t forget about them Just because you don’t know where they are, they’re somewhere, somewhere if you look, you’ll find them. Even with us we spent about twenty-one years looking, and we always thought we were gonna find him, and we just, nothing yet. We get people saying, “this guy murdered him, that guy murdered him.” But I don’t really listen to that, I just want to find him, period. Don’t forget about them, they are laying out there, whatever is left of them, that needs to be found. Can’t just let them leave, or your life. Sometimes I’ll be thinking about it, and I’ll ask Creator to help me find him, I don’t have to sit down and make myself think about it, it just comes to me that I need to ask for help. And also, St. Anthony who helps you look for stuff that you lots, he always helps you find something, I’ve been talking to him lots too and it’ll come when it comes.

It’s good to share. I’d like to know what happened to him. I know I’ve gotten all kinds of stuff from people, the truth about what happened to him if there’s anybody out there that knows anything, and I know they do that are not saying anything. Maybe they’ll get in trouble, that’s why they don’t want to say anything, but if they just kind of know a little bit of something that I hadn’t heard yet, those people I want, I want them to tell me what it is they know. I’m not gonna run to the cops, I just want to know. They’ll pay for what they’ve done themselves. Not for me to pay or make them pay, you know. Don’t forget your missing loved ones, don’t forget them.

Kimberly Cardinal- Honoring her spouse James Catholique

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 16:47:31 GMT

Well, James was murdered in 2011 in Edmonton, on the streets of Edmonton. He struggled with addictions, he became homeless, but you know, despite all of the negativity surrounding his death, he was murdered on the streets of Edmonton, he was still my son’s father, I still loved him very much. We weren’t together at the time of his death though because of his alcoholism, and he was an amazing person, he had a beautiful soul. He was kind, caring, he helped me raise my eldest daughter, Cece, and I just want people to know that there’s a person underneath the outside that we see when people are shuffling on the streets or dealing with addictions, that there’s a person underneath all of that; somebody that has a family, somebody that is loved, and somebody that is cared for.

“What words do you have to describe your strength in healing through all of this, or your kids’ strengths in healing?” WLMN Interview Questions, (2:50, R. Davey).

Well, it’s been a long process, my son is seventeen years old and still after sixteen years of him being deceased, he’s just now starting to heal. And same with myself, grief and loss it can really affect people hugely if we don’t take the time to take care of ourselves and to find healing and to reach out, and I definitely one of those people that didn’t take the time. I self-destructed and it was the beginning of my own downward spiral in my life. Now sixteen years later with a son, a teenage son that’s ready to be eighteen, raising him all these years without a father is defiantly has been difficult. There’s always days, moments, times when his presence is missed. It’s all those firsts, those special occasions, birthdays, Christmases, the date of his death, his birthday, my son’s birthday, just you know, graduations, any big moments that my son celebrates that his lack of presence is always felt and its always seen, and I guess its going to be like that for the rest of our life. I’ve definitely been actively working on my own healing and recovery, and how ive been doing that is through culture and ceremony, and so I really had to reconnect to my own Indigenous roots in order to be able to find strength and healing, and I find strength in my ancestor, in the ceremony, in the Elders and the Knowledge Keepers that I have an opportunity to sit with. Its been a turning point in my life and its been life changing to actually embrace my culture and spirituality because my entire life up until two years ago I have been completely disconnected and I didn’t have anything to believe in, and I didn’t have a purpose, but today I am not in that same boat. Today, I live with purpose and I actually now use the hard lessons that I’ve had in life, with Jame’s loss, raising my son, other grief and losses that I’ve struggled with, and now I’ve turned that into my motivation and my passion and my purpose in life, and so I do a lot of work now to help other people in their healing journey.

“Is there a memory or message or part of the story that you want to make sure is absolutely included” WLMN Interview Questions, (5:52, R. Davey).

Well, when James was first murdered and I first heard about it, I went to Edmonton, I wasn’t living in Edmonton at the time, and there was just a lot of negativity I guess surrounding his death, there wasn’t a whole lot being done, police weren’t searching for who did it, there was a newspaper news story, basically saying “another homeless man, Native homeless man found dead” and that was it, kinda swept under the carpet, nobody cared. And then I went into Edmonton and I had to actively pressure the police into searching for his murderers and, and it was a challenge. I had to speak with Edmonton police services and I went through all the chains of command and I was upset and I went to the crime scene and still saw all of his blood all over the concrete, and that upset me too so I remember contacting the city of Edmonton and just being upset because why haven’t they cleaned it up yet I thought if it was more of a prominent area in Edmonton like Whyte ave or Jasper ave it definitely would have been cleaned up. But because it was kind of in the inner-city of Edmonton, it was still there after days and they hadn’t been searching from what I could gather, as far as who did it, and I remember explaining, you know, to the detective, “well there was broken bottles, there was broken concrete” and I remember just kinda saying, “well I’m not a detective but it looks pretty obvious as to what happened here.” And then the next day when I contacted them again asking for answers, suddenly that was the story, was that there was a fight that ensued and he was basically beaten by two other individuals all in a drunken fight, drunken rage, they were all known to each other, other homeless guys, and they basically beat him to death and he didn’t have an opportunity to fight back from what the medical examiner told me, but it was a very, it was an ugly scene, an ugly death, like his whole face had to be reconstructed for the funeral. One of the things that really stood out to be about that, the lack of attempting to find the perpetrators, was that regardless whether James was homeless, whether he was drinking at the time, he was still my son’s father and I still loved him. He struggled a lot with addictions, and at that time there wasn’t a lot of help for people with addictions, and so one of the things that really I had to let the world know was that he was loved and he did have family, and I wasn’t with him because I didn’t want to be with him, I was with him because for safety reasons, for myself and my children, because of what he did when he got drunk, and the rages he would go into, so I had to protect myself and my children. And I remember reading letters from jail from him, and you know how much he loved me, how much he loved our son, how happy he was in the time that he had with us, and one of the things he said was that if he didn’t live good with us, the times that we did live good he wouldn’t have known what love and what living good like that felt like, and so he was always very grateful and he did try to go to treatment several times, he went to AA meetings a lot, but a lot of it was because I was pressuring him into doing it, I was threatening to leave him so, I don’t feel like he was really doing it for myself, and I think that’s probably why he wasn’t successful no matter how many times he went, so there was definitely a lot of healing for me that I had to work through after his death, like all the shame, guilt, shoulda-coulda-woulda’s, if only I did something different. Ultimately at the end of the day, I know I made the right choice for my children’s sake and for my own sake. Its just unfortunate that that is the way it turned out. But yeah, just to remember that he was a good person and a lot of people that do struggle with addictions you know, like Doctor Gabor Mate says, It’s not what’s wrong with somebody but, “its not asking what’s wrong with somebody but asking what happened to somebody”, and we begin to understand why they are the way they are.

“What do you hope this project will help people understand” WLMN Interview Questions, (11:38, R. Davey).

I think that empathy piece is the biggest thing, and also just understanding that, yeah well on the surface we might see the problems, we might see the trouble, we might see the addictions, we might see the violence, we might see all these things, but underneath all of that is somebody that is loved, somebody that has a mom, has a dad, somebody that has a family that cares about them, somebody that has children, children that are left to go on in life without a parent, and yeah so I guess just maybe humanizing people that have been murdered and missing and understanding that they do have people that love them. And the people that love them are left to continue on in this world with that void within them, and that void never really goes away. But through a lot of hard work and healing, they can live a little bit of a better life and come to terms with it and have a little bit of peace, peace and serenity in their lives eventually, but not without going through the devastation of grief an loss, and that huge piece of loss and hurt that people go through after experiencing such a traumatic or devastating loss.

I think one of the things that I really would just kind of like to say is that as Indigenous people, we have struggled through a lot of grief and loss and trauma historically, and I think that with awareness campaigns like this and people that are helping to tell our storys and share our stories, we can then start focusing on our strength and resilience, and start gravitating more towards the beauty and strength in our culture that has been carried on and passed onto us, nit just the intergenerational trauma we talk about or trauma, but also just highlighting our strength and resilience as Indigenous people so that we can create a better life for the seven generations ahead of us and just start working on healing together as a whole.

Johanne Sharpehead-Arcand: Honoring her Brother Billy Jay Sharpehead

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 16:45:30 GMT

Okay so my brother, Billy Jay Sharpehead, he is from the Enoch Cree Nation, he disappeared in September of 2003, he was walking down a dirt road in Enoch, and he was last seen by his father-in-law. And from what we were told by the RCMP, my brother had been in an argument with someone, and he was despondent, so he left, and that was the last time that we saw him.

“What was like as a person, such as his goals, passions and connections to culture and community?” WLMN Interview Questions (4:16, H. Williams)

My brother Jay he was a person with a heart of gold. He loved women very much, my mother and myself, he really held us in high regard. He was a dancer, a singer, a drummer, an artist, he was a very creative person, he’s very much like the rest of our family, we have a lot of musicians and artists, and performers, so that was something that he sort of gravitated to. He would always draw, he loved to sketch eagles, and funny enough we put an eagle on our ribbon skirts when we had a ceremony for him, basically for my mom, so what I said was when we do the ribbon skirts we’ll put an eagle on there and that will represent my brother, because he is free now; he is free from the pain of his life, and he’s flying free in the sky. So we had that put on the skirts as signifying that part of his life and his journey.

“Is there anything you want others in society to understand about your bother, or about other stories similar to his?” WLMN Interview Question, (5:26, H. Williams)

My brother, he came from a family with a lot of trauma. Our mother is a residential school survivor, my father, it was difficult for him as well. Growing up, there was a lot of poverty amongst our Nation, so he didn’t have the best start throughout life and I think part of that trauma that our parents suffered definitely came onto all of us, so it was very hard for him to navigate life. There weren’t a lot of supports for us when we were growing up and going through the things we went through, so he sort of got lost in that and he ended up in prison a lot. Being institutionalized, it was hard for him when he did come out of the institution to try to live amongst society, he didn’t have a lot of supports when he was in prison and when he came out he didn’t hve a lot either, so he kind of just “flopped around”, if you will, and tried to figure out things but for him, it was definitely more hard because being a man, like growing up my dad always said to my fathers, “be a man, be strong, be tough” but they needed that help, the men need that help as well too, right. It was more available for me, like it felt like I had more opportunities to get that, but my dad would say to my brothers, “Be a man, be tough, you don’t need that kind of stuff”, and that’s not true, our men are human beings just like we are. And to not have that support throughout his life, it really, it was really devastating to him and that’s why I feel like he went in that direction. You know, I think, there should be more of that, especially for our men, because there are actually a lot more missing and murdered Indigenous men out there than there are women, people just don’t know that.

“In your perspective, what does ‘healing’ and ‘justice’ mean to you?” WLMN Interview Questions, (7:35, H. Williams)

Healing for me, it means coming to these sorts of things, these gatherings where we can meet with families and share our trauma, and talk about all of the different aspects of their loved one and how they disappeared, what their life was like, and that’s just the common goal, is a lot of the residential schools stuff and 60s stuff. So in that learning and talking with people, we form this bond, if you will, and it’s like healing to us because they can understand how we feel and we can lend support to each other. Justice, more help. More help for families, for discoverment, to really take a look at what this all means. Our people are far more, it’s more dangerous for us, and they just don’t see that, and I feel like they should get down to speaking to us, the people who are the families of it, and really listen to what we are saying and telling that we need more supports. We need more supports for our men, our women, our communities, all of that stuff.

“How was culture and community a part of his life?” WLMN Interview Questions, (9:08, H. Williams)

Culture, from my mom’s family she’s from Mistawasis, so my brother took a lot of that from being over there, we went back there for ceremony a lot of the times. When he was institutionalized, he also had the opportunity to enjoy that. When he was in prison, he actually made his own grass dance outfit, and that was like, to him, it was part of his healing he said, to create that and to teach himself how to dance. Towards the end of his life he was really starting to appreciate our culture more, and it was starting to strengthen him. He said, “I feel like I can start to live”, I think that’s what he said about it, but he said “I feel like I’m starting to live now” because he had designed his own regalia, he was singing, and he was drumming and all that stuff, he was sketching more and he said, “you know what sis, I feel like I can get it together” is one of the last things he said to me, and that to me was beautiful, that’s part of our culture. Reminding us that, you know, we are connected to the earth and mother earth will always take care of us. That was a really beautiful thing that he told me towards the end, before he disappeared. For me and my family, it’s been a struggle, you know. It’s the uncertainty, and not knowing what happened to him is the most hurtful thing of this whole journey that we’ve been on, because you spend your life sitting there wondering, like when I’m driving in my car and I drive by somebody that’s walking on the street and that if that person kind of looks like my brother it automatically stops my heart, and I think, “is that my brother? Is that my brother?” and actually on one occasion, I did drive by somebody, and I thought he looked like my brother, so I turned around and went to go drive by him again, but it wasn’t him, but just stuff like that where you’re wondering, right? And then in the news if you hear, “oh, remains were found”, I’m automatically on the phone calling whatever detachment it is, “hey listen, I am just calling in to find out is it a male, female, like it’s always that thing that I am constantly doing, and looking out for my brother. I continue to search, even though we had a funeral service for him, I continue to do work on my computer. I’m not able to physically go out there anymore, but I still do that kind of work, I email with a number of Facebook groups, Facebook is fantastic by the way when sharing information. I go on TikTok, I go on Instagram, I go on snapchat, I go on all the platforms and there are a lot of great people out there that continue to help me and sadly, they’re strangers. But if the people around us could help, that would be, you know, we would appreciate that more.

“Is there anything else you’d like to share about your brother or his story?” WLMN Interview Questions, (12:37, H. Williams)

Just that my brother mattered. He was, he was a great person; he loved life, he loved his family, whether that was someone close or like a second or third cousin, that was the most important thing to my brother was that sense of family. And I think in prison, when he was in there, that’s what he was really missing was that connection to his family. That was one thing that he really loved. He loved his community, he loved our family, I just wish he loved himself a little bit more, perhaps that you know, the terrible things wouldn’t have happened but, again growing up in that kind of environment if was hard to try to have that attitude and outlook towards life but, I just want people to know that he’s never forgotten, he’s always loved, and he’s always in our heart.

My Healing Journey By Jenny Waquan

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 16:42:21 GMT

My name is Jenny Waquan, and my story is one of grief, loss, resilience, and healing.

I was taken into foster care when I was just four years old. Being separated from my family at such a young age left me disconnected from my loved ones, my culture, and my identity. As a child, I often felt lost and struggled to understand where I belonged.

When I was 14 years old, my mother, Shirley Waquan, went missing. Even though we had been separated by the foster care system for many years, she was still my mother, and her disappearance had a profound impact on my life. I carried so many unanswered questions, so much sadness, and so much grief. Not knowing what happened to her left a wound that followed me for many years.

Like many people who experience trauma and loss, I struggled to cope with the pain. I carried grief that I didn't know how to express and hurt that I didn't know how to heal. Eventually, I found myself battling addiction as I tried to numb the pain I had been carrying since childhood.

My addiction led me down a difficult path and ultimately resulted in me losing my own children. That loss was devastating and forced me to take a hard look at my life. I knew I needed to make a change—not only for myself, but for my children, my family, and the generations to come.

Choosing to attend treatment was one of the most important decisions I have ever made. It marked the beginning of my healing journey. Through treatment, I began facing the trauma, grief, and loss that I had carried for so many years.

One of the biggest parts of my healing came through reconnecting with my culture and participating in ceremonies. I also built a strong support network of family and friends who stood beside me throughout my journey. They listened, encouraged me, and helped me cope as I continued raising awareness for my mom. Their love and support gave me the strength to keep moving forward and to continue growing, healing, and sharing this journey with my children.

I found a safe place to speak about my experiences and begin healing the wounds that had shaped so much of my life. For the first time, I felt truly connected—to my culture, my community, and myself.

Through that process, I learned that healing is possible. I learned that our stories do not have to end with trauma. We can acknowledge our pain, honour our losses, and still move forward with hope.

Today, I continue to walk my healing journey and use my story to inspire others. I share my experiences because I know there are people who feel lost, disconnected, or hopeless, just as I once did. I want them to know they are not alone.

My mother's disappearance changed my life forever, but it does not define who I am. My story is not only about grief and loss—it is also about strength, healing, culture, and hope.

If there is one message I want others to hear, it is this: No matter what you have been through, healing is possible. There is hope. There is support. And there is always a path forward.

Clifford Katcheech: Honoring his Niece, Teresa Katcheech

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 16:40:19 GMT

So, I am here to represent my niece and honor my niece, her name is Teresa Sara Katcheech. She was murdered a few months back, in 2026 here in Edmonton. And burned. She was found in a house burned, basically beyond recognition. She was born April 23rd, 1986, here in Edmonton, to my brother Wayne Kacheech and her mom, her mom’s name is Gina Scivoletto. She was a mother of three, a sibling, a daughter, a granddaughter, a niece, she was loved very much by the whole family. As a child she was always involved in stuff like, uh, she liked bowling, dancing, swimming, she loved her grandparents very much as well. Around the age of 15 she got into the, hanging around with the wrong crowd and she ended up on the streets of Edmonton. When she passed away, she was 39, she had spent most of those years on the streets. She, at the time when it happened, it happened just off of 95th street in the little Italy area. Her grandfather was Salvitore Scivoletto, so she kind of grew up in the little Italy area all her life, that’s where she hung out all her life. She was addicted to drugs, substances, she struggled with that lots. She moved to NWT with her mother, however the addiction to the substance was becoming increasingly difficult to overcome, even in NWT at one point in her life.

Eventually she found herself back here in Edmonton, in the inner city. She moved to Saskatchewan for a while to live with her family on her dad’s side. After almost 20 years of living in and out of Edmonton, and also in the inner city of Edmonton, she was found in the McCauley Boyle street area, basically around the little Italy area. She was murdered and burned. And at this point in time, the investigation is still ongoing. We have heard rumors that the police are onto something, but of course they can’t tell us anything until they get concrete evidence apparently, so. Her murder take place on February 9th, 2026, at a house on 93rd street and 105th ave. She was laid to rest beside her grandmother on her dad’s side, in Kelliher, Saskatchewan. Yeah, I was her only family here in town on her dad’s side, the rest of the family all live in Saskatchewan. She had no family on her dad’s side that lived here, during that time that it happened. I would go down there periodically and find her, just to see how she is doing, I’d give her a few bucks here and there. I would pick her up when our reserve used to come to Edmonton at Christmas time and hold the big dinners, I would go pick her up and bring her to the dinners and made sure she was taken care of that way. I would go look up on her, I would keep an eye on her once and a while for her dad. I would say, me and my daughter, Jayden, were probably the last ones that’s seen her before all that happened, and it was pretty painful, you know. I remember her as a child, she was a baby I used to take care of her lots. That was my little baby, I kinda protected her a lots back in the day. I was a young guy myself too, so, and in the end I was the last one to basically see her in the family, so, it was a very disturbing thing to hear happen to your, uh, I don’t care where people come from in this life, I don’t care what they do in this life, nobody deserve to die like that, so. Yeah, that’s about all I have to say about her, she was very loved by the whole family and she’s missed, she’s missed dearly by the whole family. And another thing too, she’s got three children, a little girl and two boys that have to live the rest of their life without a parent, so that’s kind of a sad thing for those children as well. It’s a shame that them children have to live a life by themselves now and not have a mother or a father in their life. They actually live with family, and it’s a good thing that they are instead of having to live in the system. Yeah, that’s the story of my niece who I loved very much.

“With events like this and getting to share your niece’s story, what’s one of the main takeaways you want society to take from this?” – WLMN Interview Question (10:50, H. Williams)

Well, the thing I noticed during the time this happened here, a lot of bad comments were coming on online, a lot of people were making comments that “she had it coming,” “she deserved it,” you know the life she lived. I don’t think people realize that this could happen to their own child, you know. You should never look down on anybody like that, unless you’re helping them up. And I don’t care what life they’re living, I don’t care if they have all the money in the world; it can happen to their own children, that easy. Because my niece lived that lifestyle, she didn’t deserve to die that way, and she didn’t deserve to have people treating her and talking about her that way. The one thing I think everybody should learn and should realize in this life is, it can happen to you.

Chantel Glaude: Sharing her Story as a Survivor

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 16:36:35 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

I’m going to start off, I believe where it began, and my story begins in 2007, Fall of 2007, when me and my partner had separated shortly after my son’s third birthday. And that situation was, it compiled of addictions, mental health, domestic abuse, but when I reflect back to that moment, it was just two individuals, tow broken indivoduals, trying to have a family, trying to create something they never had growing up. So at that time I was twenty two years old, and I had moved from the Lakeland community to Edmonton. Around that time, that is when social media started taking off, and so Facebook was very popular back then. So I got into this cycle of going out every weekend, meeting new people, adding them to my social media, thinking that they were friends. And so one particular night, it was May Friday night, and at that time I didn’t have a cellphone, and I had gone to this one club just on Jasper Ave because there was a few clubs I would always frequent to because those were the areas, I guess I knew people. It was early in the night, probably around 7pm, and I went to this EDM club, and when I got there, keep in mind like I was sober, like I didn’t have any drinks in me at that point, and because it was still early in the night there was really no body there. So from that club I started walking to another club, which would be probably about 6-7 blocks away down Jasper Ave. So as I’m walking, there was this vehicle that drove past me and when it drove past me the first time it kinda caught my attention because I heard base coming from the vehicle and of course the music was like catchy, I I’m like, “oh right, that person’s probably having a good time.” Anyways I keep walking and again I notice this vehicle, the same vehicle, drive past me again. And when they drove past me the second time, this time they had their window and they were like, “hey.” I kinda glanced and saw it was a male who was by himself, all I noticed was his smile, and I just kind of waved like “okay whatever” and I just kept walking. And this time I was probably about a block and a half away from this club I was walking to and, that same vehicle this time was parked down the block so it could meet me, I guess. And they were facing Jasper Ave, and again they’re like honking their horn calling me over, and so I went walking up to the vehicle. And of course, you know, as I approach all I could see was this person’s smile, theyre asking what I’m up to, where I’m going, who I’m with. And so it wasn’t uncommon for me to cross paths with people that would ask me questions like that because at that time again, I was going out every weekend meeting new people, and so having that conversation was just like, it was normal so I didn’t feel a threat, I didn’t feel like this person was harmful. Another thing that really caught my attention too was, as I got closer to the vehicle and closer to that person, their vehicle was super clean. They had this interior light that was flashy, you know going with the music, the bass, so just that alone was kind of like giving me like this person is a good person, right? You know you judge people on what you see so I immediately thought this person’s chill, like this person’s, you know, club-whatever. So they were asking me like where am I going, who am I with, and I told them like, I just left from this place I’m going to this place now I’m gonna go meet up with some friends, you know, go have some drinks like it’s the weekend, and so immediately they were like, “Well I have some drinks, do you want to come with me?” And I just remember looking down Jasper Ave and seeing the club I was going to go to and looking back at this person, and this person was male, non-Indigenous, not from this country, dark skin, and so I’m thinking maybe he was either Arab or maybe Pakistani, somewhere near that ethnicity. So again, it was just like, okay like this person wants to go have some drinks, they said they were gonna take me back to the club after we have some drinks, like it was just gonna be a chill time and again, you know, no red flags were going off, I didn’t feel any danger. I felt like this was going to be an okay situation, so I jumped into the vehicle with him. And at that time, so this was early 2008, and even though I grew up in the city, I really didn’t know the south side as much as I did the north side and now when I think back to it, because I know Edmonton, this person drove me to the Holiday Inn on Gateway blvd just off of Whitemud. And so when he pulled up to this hotel, by that time it was going onto 9 o’clock, so between 8:30-9:00. He takes me up to his room and sure enough he has a bottle of crown royale, he gets some ice, and you know he’s talking to me the whole time, and so again when people are, like, engaging in conversation, like again there’s like no red flags going off, right theres no alarms going off, we’re hanging out, we’re getting to know each other as people, we’re hanging out. And so he pours me a cup and I have the first drink, he goes to the bathroom and comes out and again he’s like engaging with small talk or whatever, and as my glass is done so he suggests that he wants to make me another glass I say sure. So I get up to go to the bathroom, and at that time when I think back to it, I wasn’t really aware what date rape drugs were or that it was even common, and so I went to the bathroom, I came back out, my cups filled, and so I take another drink and that’s the last thing I remember. The next thing you know, I honesrly don’t know how long I was out for, but the next thing you know I’m like waking up, I’m laying on the bed, my pants and my underwear are down, my belts undone, and I’m like disoriented, and I see that I’m still in the hotel room and I look towards the window and its dark outside, and as I’m still trying to focus my eyes this man comes out of the bathroom and this time he’s in a robe. And when I think back to it now, again, I’m thinking like he obviously dkid something to me and now he has just taken a shower, coming out, so I’m trying to sit up and I’m like pushing my legs off the bed so I can try to stand up and pull up my pants and whatnot, and at thr same time I’m asking him like, “what happened, what did you do to me, what’s going on, why are yoi coming out of the bathroom in a robe” And I can’t remember exactly what he was responding because mind you I had just woke up and I am still disoriented, and by that time once I got my pants up and I’m buckling my belt, I’m starting to cry and I’m starting to freak out, and I’m like yelling at him, calling him a rapist. I’m asking him what the hell he did to me, and what I do remember him saying is, “I’m going to drive you home, I’m going to drive you home, lets go.” So we walk down to the lobby, and by the time we get to the lobby I’m feeling very intoxicated and, lets keep in mind I only had one small glass of alcohol, and so that wouldn’t have made me disoriented, and so we get down to the lobby and head to his vehicle. And now the sun is starting to come up, the sky colpur is starting bceome blue, and so when I think back to even that moment, going from 9pm to now its like 5 in the morning, I was out for that length of time and so that’s like what, about 8 hours of being unconscious. Again, I’m crying, he’s driving me to my cousin’s place, and once I get to my cousins place you know I’m waking her up and we’re sitting in her room and I told her what happened and as I’m telling her I’m like, “ugh my body, it just feels so …”, like I didn’t have control over my body and I just remember swanging back and forth. She’s encouraging me to go to the hospital, and you know to go make a police report, to do a rape kit test and I just, you know I was carrying so much shame, I felt so guilty, I felty like it was my fault, and so I was like, “No I don’t want to go to the rcmp, I don’t want to go to the hospital, I don’t want it do any of that” In fact, in that moment I just felt like I wanted to drink. So from that moment of May 2008 up until, I think Feburary of 2009, I guess like my addiction like really spiraled out of control, and now that I think about it, it was because of what happened to me. And if I didn’t have those certain people that came into my life to like say, “hey there’s something going on here, you have a problem let’s get you out of this situation” like I don’t know where I would have ended up. But also reflecting on that actual morning of me waking up, there was a video that had gone viral lasy year where this girl was zip tied, this Indigenous young woman was zip tied in a hotel in Winnipeg, and it made me think of what happened to me; being in a hotel, by this person who I guess had a motive, he knew what he was doing, he targeted me out because I was vulnerable, I was by myself, and you know, to be able to be sitting her and to be able to still share this I feel so grateful because there are circumstances where women are drug-raped and they end up either in a dumpster or a landfill, or their body is chopped up and left in a bag, and they don’t have that moment to share, and again reflecting back to that day I didn’t have a cellphone, I went out by myself, I went out to the club by myself, so nobody in my family knew where I was going or who I would be with, and so like that situation going with this complete stranger and having that happen to me, it could have been a whole lot worse. And it was, like it was a really horrible experience, but again to be able to be sitting her and to have that moment to share, I held onto that guilt and that shame for such a long time because I always thought that it was my fault, like I was so stupid to think that this person was safe to go with, and when rrally it’s not my fault. Again, that person was a rapist; it had nothing to do with me being left by myself, it had nothing to do with me wanting to have drinks, it had nothing to do with what I was even wearinh, and mind you that night I was wearing jeans, I was wearing a black tshirt, a denim jacket, a belt, runners, I wasn’t dress, you know, provocatively, and even if I was, again that situation happened because that person was a predatory, that person was a rapist. They already had a motive, they already had a plan of what they were gonna do because they had the drugs, they had the alcohol, they had the hotel room, they presented themselves as this safe person and they targeted me out, and so that is what happened. And I guess my final message, unless you have more questions, but I believe my final message is that if situations like this happen its never your fault, and to speak up, because for the longest time I held that experience in. I think the first time I spoke out to it out loud in front of a crowd was in 2024, and so it had almost been twenty years before I actually shared that experience, and I got to share that experience when I was invited to present at the Kikiwin Health Services STDBI youth conference, and I had to try to think of like, how can I share a story that aligns with the STBBI stigma and conversation, and again when I think back to that moment when that happened to me, I didn’t even go get tested, I idn;t go to the hospital to get tested, I didn’t you know, anything. And so I could have even ended up pregnant, I could’ve ended up with an STI that probably wasn’t curable and thankfully I’m okay in terms of that, but again, when things like that happen and a predator attacks you in that way, it’s never your fault. you know, its never your faukt, don’t carry that guilt because those people, like, they do that because that’s just who they are and it has nothing, it doesn’t reflect on who you are as a person and, so I just wanted to share that. And even when I shared it that day at that conference, it just so happened that we were at the Delta on Gateway and Whitemud, and right across the street was that hotel. So being able to not only speak my story out loud to a group of peoplebut that full circle moment of “I’m still here”, that happened to me and it did cause me to spiral but now I’m stronger and now im more braver and now I can not only speak for myself but for others and hopefully encourage others that may have gone through the same thing to speak up as well because I feel like the more that we speak up and share, then we’re putting light onto the situation and, we’re warriors, right, we’re warriors and when warriors gather, great things can happen and we can start pointing out who these people are who caused this harm. And I know I’m never gonna cross paths with this person again ecause theyre a complete stranger, but even in terms of like, our communities, we need to speak up. We need to speak up against these people that cause harm to our people or to each other, and yeah just put light onto it so that it stops.

So to this day I dont like staying at hotels, especially if im by myself, so when I do travel I prefer to stay in airbnbs, and I really good example of how hotels are a hotspot for human trafficking is because in December of 2024, I had travelled from the Lakeland to Edmonton and it was a last minte, I gonna get a hotel, I was gonna stay at a hotel that I had already previously stayed at, because of that I knew the place was safe, and so I went onto priceline and all I saw was the Best Western, and I immiedeatwely thought it was the location on Elderslake, and so I clicked on it, I booked it, and then I drove to Elderslake and was going to check in. when I got ythere, the desk lady the receptionist was telling me that it was the wrong location and I had actually booked at the Best Western on Gateway and 51st ave. And so, again it was 9oclock at night, it was winter time, it was just me and my daughter, and so I’m like, okay I already booked it its non refundable, so I’ll just go to that location and the next day I’ll go somewere else. So anyeays, as Im pulling up to this other best western, as soon as I go into the parking lot, as soon as I was pulling up to the parking lot, immediately, immediately, I just felt danger. I felt my anxiety get to, skyrocket, and so I went tot eh front doors, I had two sets of keys, and so I lock the vehicle, my daughter was sleeping, and I walked into this hotel. And as we walk into this hotel, the way they had it set up is like this long hallway. This hallway turns into, like another hallway so there’s like a corner to go down this hallway, and then this hallway brings you to where the checkin desk is, and as soon as I saw that I’m like, “there’s too much distance happening right now from this desk to the entrance, and so even that alone was like a red flag for me. And so I went walking down to this desk and the way even the checkin desk was set up it was like, a podium, it was just like this podium like-desk type of thing and then in the background it was like, what do you call it, those wall dividers, and so it didn’t even have like the best western logo on it, it was jst like this wall divider and this podium, and there’s one man standing there, you know asking me “who I am, blah blah blah” and as he’s like trying to engage with me, there’s a set of elevators and then at the elevators, there was these stacks of mattresses. And so immediately as hes trying to talk to me I’m like, im looking at these matresses and so im like, “oh you have a bunchof matresses here, whats going on?” and hes like, “oh w’re just doing renovations”, and so again Im like, red flags. So then he’s asking for my ID, so I give him my ID, and then hes asking me for the deposit, I told him I had a debit-visa, he said they only take credit cards and I say well this is all I have. So he’s like, well we’ll do cash, and as he’s like telling me they only accept cash as deposit, there’s thse two Indigenous girls, little girls, probably 12 nd maybe 15, coming down from that hallway when you first walk in. And the younger one is holding a stuffed animal and she was barefoot, no shoes no socks. And the other one had a atank top on but she had shoes on, and she’s like, you know whispering in her ear like, “we’re just gonna grab something to eat and then we’re gonna go back up” kinda thing. And so, I’m like watching this, noticing the no shoes and noticing the older one was kind of like, I guess like guiding her or making sure whatever. So then the desk person, the receptionist was telling me that the ATM machine was beside the vending machines, and so when I asked him where that was, he pointed just past the elevators where these girls were walking to. So I wrnt walking up to the ATM and as I’m walking past these two young girls, again the older one is rushing her like, “what do you want to eat, pick something” and the younger one, you know, you could tell she wa really scared, and she wasn’t saying nothing she was like hanging onto this stuffed animal like really tight. So I pulled out the money and again I’m just watchingthese girls. as I get the money I’m walking past them and again, the younger one wasn’t saying nothing, the older one was still trying to get her to pick something from the vending machine, and as I’m walking back to this desk, now there’s a woman behind the desk and on the other side there’s a man. And again these people are, they’re either Pakistani or Arab, and the guy that wason the other side of the desk, he was dressed like he was going tot eh club; he had the bracelets, he had the necklace, he had a poloshirt, his hair was slick back, he had dress shoes, he had like dress pants on, and he’s talking to the two employees and so as I get closer, he looks at me and he’s like, “go ahead”. And so I guestion him, I said, “oh do you work here?”, and he was like “yeah I do”. And it didn’t really make sense to me that he would work there because like I said, he was dressed like he was going out to the club, and then the people that were on the other side of the desk, they had like best western attire on, and so again I’m like, like my radar is going off, so I approach the desk and was handing over the deposit to the man that was initially helping me from the beginning, and as I was handing him the deposit, he starts asking for my ID again. And I told him, I said, “ I already gave you my ID, why do you need my ID again?” And when I questioned him, he got irritated and he started raising his voice like, “well I need to make sure that”, like whatever, he was just like, “I just need your ID” And so as he’s engaging with me and I see that you know, his voice is getting elevated, hes getting irritated, there’s a woman standing there looking at me, and then there’s this other man behind me you know, watching while this is happening, and then those two little girls are still over here. And as this is all happening again, my anxiety levels going up, I’m starting to feel afraid, and so I just said, “you know what, forget it. I’m not gonna stay here. Even though that there’s no refund, you can keep that I’m not gonna stay here.” So I walked away, went into my vehicle, and as soon as I jumped into my vehicle I just went driving to the end of the parking lot of this building, and when I got there, now all of a sudden the lights turn on because when I first pulled into this parking lot it was like pitch black. So now that I’m at the end of the parking lot, all of a sudden all of these lights turn on, like the parkinglot loghts turn on, and it was almost like, I don’t know how to say this but like, my ancestors putting light on me, like you’re okay, you’re safe. And I pakred my vehicle but then I was like, shaking. I was skhaking, I started crying, I was hyperventilating, because I think it had to do with, again, what happened to me, but also because now I just witnessed what I assumed was human trafficking, because you have these two little girls coming from this hallway, there’s no parents in sight, one is barefoot, she’s not saying anything while the older one you know is doing most of the talking. And so now we have these two little girls at this vending machine, but the you have this other man come in and he’s standing there, probably keeping an eye on them so that they don’t take off. It’s winter time, so even if they did try to take off they weren’t goingto make it very far, but then yu also have the staff, right. The staff are obviously apart of it, they know whats going on.

Bison Herd Update

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 18:59:30 GMT

Well it’s been 2 weeks since that chilly day we welcomed the new residents of the farm and we wanted to let people know how things have been going so far.

Firstly, we’re so encouraged at how the region has taken to our project! The positive comments and interest in our efforts to build a safe sustainable source of food near Anzac are much appreciated and we hope you’ll continue to follow our progress.

Our bison are settling well into their new home, eating lots and establishing their leadership structure. We’ve had some pushing and shoving among the bigger animals but nothing unexpected and they’re respecting the enclosure so in short, the herd is adjusting well and we remain diligent in their care.

On that score, we’d like to thank everyone for respecting the herd’s privacy. It’s important to remember that these are wild animals and capable of massive force. Groups of people, loud noises and activity will spook them. Their preference is to flee but individual buffalo are unpredictable and will attack with a mean intention if they feel provoked. That said, The buffalo love it when you wave to them as you drive by and appreciate that you respect their space and your own safety by not obstructing traffic, pulling over and especially not entering the private laydown area. We plan on building a nice viewing area for the public in the future but right now we’re focused on building a healthy, calm herd.

We have 4 individuals authorized to work on the ranch and with the animals. Part of the introduction is to create a relationship and familiarity between each animal, the herd and each worker. Right now, we’ve studied bison and bison behaviour generally. The next step is individual to individual, understanding each animal’s tendencies and the herd as a whole.

We’ve worked hard to ensure the safety of the public and the animals and appreciate the support of the communities of RMWB. If anyone has any questions about the Willow Lake Métis Farms Project, feel free to call the office at 780 334-0008 and let’s have a conversation.

-Matt Michetti

Meet a Buffalo

This little lady is emerging as our herd leader. Her government name is Bison Bison Athabascae and she hasn’t yet shown us her true name. She’s around 8 years old and almost 640 kg. and 2 meters at the hump, if you look you can see a baby bump and with her age, she’s an experienced mother who is doing her best to keep the others in line.

By the snow on her face, we know she’s been foraging as well as eating the hay we supply. It’s important for bison to eat the dead grass under the snow. As they churn up the snow cover, it mixes with the grass and provides the only water the bison will “drink” all winter. In typical leadership behaviour, she came to the front of the herd, made sure I saw her and that I could see that she saw me. She’s a powerful animal who is neither intimidated nor angry, just waiting to see what I’ll do next, at 75 meters distance, I backed away slowly.

Relocated bison herd aims to bring food security to Métis in northern Alberta

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 16:27:56 GMT

Ranch is the start of a large-scale agricultural shift for the Willow Lake Métis Nation

A cacophony of hooves against metal and snow pierced through a fierce blizzard at a Métis-operated ranch in northeastern Alberta.

One after another, 20 shaggy-haired wood bison sprinted from a metal shipping container and into a fenced portion of the boreal forest. There were hugs, cheers and high-fives as the herd disappeared into the swirling snow. It was the first bison stampede, albeit a controlled one, on the Willow Lake Métis Nation in roughly 120 years.

About 30 elders and leaders from the community greeted the herd, which was relocated from Elk Island National Park. The herd now lives on a ranch operated by the Métis community near the hamlet of Anzac, about 50 kilometres southeast of Fort McMurray.

Piikani Nation hunters harvest first bison in Banff in over 145 years

“It’s so nice and humbling … so very beautiful to see. I’m glad I’m part of it,” said Robert Cree, an elder from the nearby Fort McMurray 468 First Nation.

“I’m glad they’re back home. There used to be buffalo here years ago. My grandfather used to talk about it. I’m glad they’re back on our traditional lands.”

Bringing 'wood bison back to Wood Buffalo'

Métis leaders say the ranch’s opening is an historic landmark for the Indigenous community and the animals themselves. Kyle Whitford, a trapper employed as an Indigenous guardian for Willow Lake Métis Nation, says the herd is a victory for food sustainability.

“It’s bringing the wood bison back to Wood Buffalo,” said Whitford. “I’m very excited and very relieved now that they’re at their home, which they’ll love and enjoy because we built it with love.”

Indigenous-led bison repopulation projects are helping the animal thrive again in Alberta

The herd is part of Willow Lake’s $50-million, multi-year food sustainability plan. The bison will live on 16 hectares of the 82 hectare ranch, which will eventually have hens, honey bees, greenhouses, hydroponics and community gardens.

“It’s a really valuable start to our agriculture and tourism business, as well as helping to achieve sovereignty, which is being able to influence your environment," said Matthew Michetti, who leads government and industry relations for Willow Lake.

Long-term cultural and tourism plans include an Indigenous medicine walk, partnerships with schools and building a visitors’ centre.

Stella Lavallee, president of Willow Lake Métis Nation, is excited to have elders bring their expertise to the bison harvest, which will both provide immediate food for Métis families while passing along important skills to younger generations.

Feather Bourque-Jenner, Willow Lake’s director, said the project will help mitigate food and living costs in the north.

“A part of that is reintroducing our lifestyle in a more sustainable way back into our day-to-day life,” she said.

Why reintroducing bison is revitalizing the Prairies and Indigenous culture, identity

Nathaniel Ostashewski, who owns Cyrus Bison, located more than 400 kilometres south in Bonnyville, Alta., is advising Willow Lake on ranching. He predicts the herd will continue to grow.

The lush humidity of neighbouring Gregoire Lake and long northern summer sunlight stimulates plant growth, he said.

The animals themselves will transform the muskeg into a vibrant prairie as their sharp hooves aerate the soil and reintroduce moisture and nutrients. Even the hairs from their coats will be used by birds and rodents in nests and burrows.

“If bison flourish in Alberta, so be it. That’s much better for all of us,” he said.

Preserving Our Métis Roots: Culture, Language, and Legacy in Northern Alberta

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 20:52:40 GMT

Culture isn’t just something we celebrate—it's who we are. At Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), our roots run deep in the lands, stories, and traditions passed down through generations. As we grow, we remain grounded in the strength of our heritage. Preserving our culture, language, and way of life is not only about honouring the past; it's about building a future where every Citizen feels proud, seen, and connected.

The Heartbeat of Our Nation: Métis Culture Lives Here

Cultural retention at Willow Lake Métis Nation means protecting and practicing the traditions that define our identity as Métis people. It’s about more than remembering; it’s about living our values every day.

For our Nation, this includes honouring the land, practicing traditional skills, and sharing stories that connect us to our ancestors. Whether it’s gathering for a fiddle circle, harvesting in the fall, or sitting with community members for an afternoon of storytelling, culture is at the centre of who we are.

In Northern Alberta, the land tells our stories. Our connection to it is spiritual, historical, and practical. Culture flows through our beadwork, our music, and in the way we come together as a community. It’s this living, breathing culture that keeps our Nation strong.

Learning Across Generations: Elders, Youth, and Shared Teachings

We believe that true learning happens between generations. Elders carry deep knowledge. Lessons are not found in textbooks, but in lived experience. Youth bring curiosity, creativity, and energy. When they come together, something powerful happens.

From on-the-land camps to cultural workshops, our programs intentionally bring Elders and youth into the same spaces. These moments become opportunities to pass on skills such as trapping, cooking, foraging for medicine, and jigging. But they’re also moments of connection. When a story shared becomes a memory, a youth carries forward.

These shared teachings don’t just pass on knowledge; they build trust, relationships, and pride. They remind us that every generation has a role in keeping our culture alive.

Traditional Knowledge in a Modern World

Traditional knowledge grounds us. It reminds us that our ancestors were engineers, environmentalists, artists, and educators long before those titles existed.

At Willow Lake Métis Nation, we celebrate this knowledge by practicing it:

Jigging keeps our bodies and spirits moving with joy.
Beading tells stories in thread and colour.
Harvesting teaches patience, respect, and gratitude.
Cooking brings us together, nourishes us, and keeps tradition alive.

These aren’t outdated skills; they’re living tools of resilience. In a fast-changing world, our traditions offer comfort, confidence, and a sense of belonging. They also provide economic opportunities, as more Citizens explore Métis entrepreneurship through crafts, food, and cultural tourism.

When we centre traditional knowledge, we are not just honouring the past, we are carving out space in the present for Métis ways of life to thrive.

Cultural Events: More Than Just Celebrations

Events like Willow Lake Métis Fest, seasonal feasts, and community workshops are vital to our cultural landscape. These aren’t just social events but are cultural anchors that bring Citizens together.

Every gathering reinforces pride and belonging. Whether it’s hearing a fiddle song that reminds us of our grandparents or sharing bannock around the fire, these events renew our spirit.

Workshops on sash weaving, language, or hide tanning help build skills and confidence. Ceremonies and feast days create space for reflection, healing, and connection.

For youth, these events offer an entry point to culture. For Elders, they’re a chance to share. For families, they become treasured memories. In every case, they strengthen our Nation.

How Willow Lake Métis Nation Supports Cultural Retention

Cultural preservation is woven into the work we do every day. Under the leadership of Stella Lavallee , we have prioritized cultural retention as a foundational pillar of Nation building.

Programs and initiatives include:

On-the-land learning led by knowledge holders
Youth culture camps focused on identity and skill-building
Elder-Citizen mentorships and oral history projects
Funding support for Citizen-led cultural workshops
Cultural supply kits distributed to families for at-home learning

These efforts are grounded in our Seven Pillars of Governance , which guide us in health, justice, education, and cultural retention. Culture isn’t an afterthought but rather embedded in how we lead, govern, and grow.

By investing in culture now, we’re securing a strong, united future.

Looking Ahead: A Legacy for Future Generations

As we look to the future, our vision is clear: a Nation where every Citizen feels proud of who they are, where tradition is part of daily life, and where Métis culture thrives in homes, schools, and workplaces.

To make that vision real, we need everyone: youth, Elders, families, partners—to play a part. Share a story. Attend an event. Learn a traditional skill. Teach someone how to jig. These actions, big and small, keep our culture alive.

We are building a legacy not just for today, but for tomorrow. For the next generation to stand tall in who they are, they must see us doing the same.

Get involved in Willow Lake Métis Nation’s cultural initiatives: Visit our Cultural Programs Page

Let’s continue walking forward, rooted in tradition, guided by community, and united by the heartbeat of our Métis Nation.

Celebrating Our 2025 Summer Students at Willow Lake Métis Nation

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 20:20:29 GMT

A Season of Growth: Celebrating Our Summer Students at Willow Lake Métis Nation

At Willow Lake Métis Nation, our young people are the heart of our future. This past summer, we were honoured to welcome an incredible group of summer students whose enthusiasm, hard work, and curiosity brought energy to our Nation’s daily life and future planning.

From the moment they joined us, these students became more than just part of a program—they became part of something bigger: a supportive, culturally grounded community dedicated to growth, learning, and leadership. As summer wraps up, we take this moment to reflect on their contributions and celebrate a season filled with knowledge, connection, and purpose.

Making a Difference in the Community

Our 2025 Summer Student Program gave students hands-on opportunities to contribute to real projects that support our Citizens and strengthen community well-being.

From administrative support to community event planning to helping with on-the-land programming, our students brought fresh ideas and a strong work ethic to every task. They assisted with Nation communications, organized cultural supplies, supported data entry for program development, and even helped prepare for important community events like Willow Lake Métis Festival and Appreciation Day.

These projects weren’t just “summer jobs”—they were acts of service. Our students saw firsthand how even small contributions can make a big difference when done with heart.

Their willingness to pitch in wherever needed was a true reflection of Métis values: community support, respect, and working together for the greater good.

Exploring Careers & Learning Opportunities

One of the most exciting moments of the summer was the group’s visit to Imperial Oil’s Kearl Lake operations site . This career exploration day gave students a front-row look into the energy sector—one of the most significant industries in our region.

The tour was more than just an educational experience; it was an opportunity for our youth to see themselves in future careers. They met with Indigenous employees and leaders at Imperial who shared insights about their career paths, challenges they overcame, and the importance of staying grounded in culture and identity.

The visit helped bridge the gap between learning and doing, showing students how their talents and interests can align with professional opportunities. For many, it was the first time they saw how their goals could fit into the larger picture of workforce development and Nation building.

Appreciation Day: A Celebration of Their Hard Work

To wrap up the summer on a high note, we hosted a Student Appreciation Day—a joyful celebration of our students’ efforts and impact.

The event was made possible entirely through community donations, and every dollar went directly to giving our students the recognition they deserved. From food and refreshments to gifts and fun activities, the day was about making our students feel proud, valued, and seen.

This kind of transparency is important to us: when our community gives, we ensure those contributions directly benefit our Citizens—especially our youth. The smiles, stories, and shared laughter were reminders that investing in young people is one of the most meaningful things we can do.

Gratitude & A Call to Action

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to every individual, family, and organization who donated, volunteered, or partnered with us this summer. Your support helped create meaningful employment experiences for young Métis Citizens, and the impact will ripple into their futures.

Your contributions made it possible to:

Offer paid employment with cultural mentorship
Fund career development and site visits
Provide lunches, equipment, and celebration days
Encourage youth to stay connected to the community

But this is just the beginning. As the program grows, so does the potential to reach more students, introduce more skills, and create long-term opportunities rooted in Métis identity and self-determination.

How You Can Help:

Donate to support next year’s summer student programming
Volunteer as a career mentor or event helper
Partner with WLMN to offer career experiences or training

Together, we can continue to build a strong, skilled, and connected generation of Métis youth ready to lead.

Closing Thoughts & Appreciation

To our 2025 summer students: thank you! Your energy, ideas, and commitment made this summer unforgettable. We’re proud of what you’ve accomplished and even more excited to see where your journey takes you next. You’ve shown us all what it means to be a Citizen who leads with heart, culture, and pride.

We can’t wait to welcome the next cohort of summer students—and we’re already dreaming about what’s possible when we continue investing in our future, together.

Willow Lake Métis Farms Takes Root

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 14:56:25 GMT

A New Chapter in Community Growth and Economic Innovation

ANZAC, ALBERTA, CANADA, September 16, 2025 / EINPresswire.com / -- Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) is proud to introduce Willow Lake Métis Farms, a Nation-led initiative that blends cultural values with sustainable business practices to bring locally grown food, hands-on learning, and economic opportunity to the heart of the community.

Willow Lake Métis Farms is where fresh food, innovation, and community come together. Designed to support both local food production and long-term Nation-building, the farm reflects WLMN’s commitment to reconnecting with the land while building a financially sustainable, revenue-generating enterprise.

“This farm is a reflection of our values,” said Stella Lavallee, President of WLMN. “It connects us to the land, supports the well-being of our Citizens, and gives us the tools to grow literally and figuratively as a Nation.”

A Fresh Start: Grow Pods and First Harvest
We’re proud to begin this journey with the Growcer modular hydroponic farm, a key part of our long-term food security and economic strategy. This cutting-edge grow pod is designed for year-round production and can yield up to 10,000 pounds of fresh leafy greens annually, no matter the season or weather.

But it’s about more than food. The Growcer unit also creates local jobs, supports knowledge-sharing across generations, and brings innovative technology directly into the hands of our Citizens. It signals a clear direction: Willow Lake Métis Nation is growing—in food, in opportunity, and in economic strength.
Our first harvest includes leafy greens, which will be available for purchase. Each crop moves us one step closer to a resilient, community-driven food system rooted in Métis values and stewardship.

A Sustainable Business with Strong Partners
Willow Lake Métis Farms provides food access and a social enterprise. This initiative is designed to be financially sustainable, with produce sales helping support operations, expand programming, and reinvest into Nation priorities. While Citizens will benefit directly, the farm is a commercial project aligned with WLMN’s vision for prosperity and self-reliance.

This vision is shared by a strong network of partners committed to sustainable development in Northern Alberta. Our work is made possible with the support of CNOOC, COSL, MEG Energy, Southbow, and the Government of Alberta, each aligned with WLMN’s goals of innovation, food security, and community resilience.

The project has also drawn strong support from the Government of Alberta, recognizing its role in driving innovation, food security, and economic opportunity.

“Willow Lake Métis Farms is a powerful example of community-led innovation and long-term vision creating direct benefits for citizens and growing local economies. Through the Aboriginal Business Investment Fund, Alberta’s government is proud to support a project that empowers people, strengthens food security and creates new revenue streams. This initiative reflects the kind of sustainable, forward-thinking work that uplifts communities and supports reconciliation in action.”

— Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Indigenous Relations

What It Means for the Community
Willow Lake Métis Farms supports multiple pillars of WLMN’s governance: promoting health and well-being, reconnecting with land and resources, and creating pathways for economic development. As the farm grows, it will become a space where Elders, youth, and Citizens can come together to share knowledge, gain hands-on skills, and build a stronger, more resilient community.

Future plans include expanding production, introducing traditional medicines, and offering farm-to-table products and programming for Citizens and the community.

Advocating for Our Future: WLMN’s Commitment to Citizen Rights and Community Development

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 19:36:10 GMT

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 .

Métis Festival 2025

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 19:28:23 GMT

Join Us for the 22nd Annual Willow Lake Métis Festival!

Willow Lake Métis Nation is proud to host its 22nd Annual Métis Festival — a day full of celebration, tradition, and community spirit! Join us on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Anzac Recreational Centre for a family-friendly event that brings Métis culture to life.

Strength in Structure: How Administration and Governance Power Our Nation

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 18:30:00 GMT

At Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), governance is more than policies and procedures — it is the framework through which we serve, support, and stand up for our Citizens. Good governance is about listening, learning, and leading with intention. It is about ensuring that every Citizen can trust the systems behind the services they receive. We believe strong administration is the key to self-determination, community well-being, and long-term success.

Through careful planning and transparent leadership, WLMN continues to build administrative structures that not only serve our present but shape our future. These systems are grounded in Métis values and aligned with our Seven Pillars of Governance , including Governance and Fiscal Responsibility, Citizenship and Nationhood, and Economic Development.

Governance Rooted in Responsibility and Vision

Willow Lake Métis Nation operates with integrity, accountability, and a commitment to ongoing improvement. Under the leadership of Executive Director Stella Lavallee, we strive for governance that is both transparent and responsive. This means ensuring every policy, every decision, and every new initiative is made with Citizens in mind.

We are continuously refining how our Nation operates through the creation of fair and clear policies, the development of support programs that meet real needs, and the delivery of services that empower individuals and families across Northern Alberta. This approach to leadership helps to build confidence, strengthen trust, and ensure every Citizen feels connected to the governance of their Nation.

Building Stronger Systems Through Administration

WLMN’s administrative work is where vision becomes action. Our team works diligently to manage the day-to-day operations of the Nation in ways that reflect our collective priorities. Our key areas of administrative focus include the following initiatives.

Policy creation ensures that all guidelines and decisions are thoughtfully developed and reflect the needs and values of our Citizens. These policies provide clarity and consistency, helping our programs run smoothly and equitably.

Policy administration puts those guidelines into action. We work to ensure all procedures are accessible and easy to understand, so that every Citizen knows what supports are available and how to access them.

Our Citizenship program is foundational to our Nation’s identity. We maintain accurate records and support Citizens in accessing the services they are entitled to. More importantly, our work-around Citizenship fosters a strong sense of belonging, pride, and accountability within the community. Review the application form to become a Citizen today.

Support programs are a direct expression of our commitment to well-being. These programs help Citizens meet basic needs, build skills, and explore opportunities. From food and health security to education and employment, our supports are designed to address barriers and open doors.

Programs That Reflect Our Values in Action

The work of administration and governance becomes real in the programs that reach Citizens. These initiatives are thoughtfully developed based on feedback, community priorities, and the vision of a stronger Nation.

Our Class 3 Driver’s License Program was a great example of this. Through this program, Citizens gained access to professional driver training and graduated with the licensing required for employment in trades, construction, and transportation. It’s more than a license — it’s a step toward financial independence and long-term career success.

The Security Guard Training Program offered another vital employment pathway. Participants gained industry-recognized certification and valuable experience that translated directly into job opportunities in safety, event security, and community services. These kinds of initiatives support individual empowerment while contributing to the broader safety and prosperity of our Nation.

In addition to workforce initiatives, WLMN’s policies support Citizens through every stage of life. Our Bereavement Assistance Policy provides compassionate support during times of loss. The Community Investment and Citizen Support Funding Policy is designed to achieve two key outcomes: supporting organizations developing programs within our region, and investing directly in Citizens to advance the Métis community. Through our Education Policy, Training Program, and Employment and Training services, we help Citizens build lasting careers and achieve personal goals with confidence.

In early 2023, we also announced two new initiatives that address pressing day-to-day needs: a technology access program that provided Fibre Optic internet to Citizens, and safeguarding the future well-being of its community members through their Wills Support Initiative. These initiatives are practical, thoughtful, and rooted in care. They reflect WLMN’s commitment to ensuring accessibility for its Citizens.

Each of these programs is supported by well-developed administrative processes and clear policies. They demonstrate how responsible governance directly benefits Citizens and reflects our collective values.

Self-Determination in Practice

WLMN’s approach to governance is built on the principle of Métis self-determination. We believe in managing our affairs, shaping our programs, and making decisions that honour our distinct culture and identity. Through careful policy development and strong administrative oversight, we are exercising that right every day.

Self-determination also means we are not waiting for outside systems to define who we are or what we deserve. Instead, we are building a governance model that reflects the wisdom of our Elders, the energy of our youth, and the shared purpose of our community.

This model prioritizes transparency. Citizens deserve to know how decisions are made, how funding is spent, and how policies affect them. It also prioritizes adaptability. As the needs of our community evolve, so too must our systems. That is why we are always listening, always learning, and always striving to improve.

Looking Forward: A Nation Built to Last

Governance and administration are not static — they are living systems that must grow with our community. WLMN is committed to making those systems stronger, smarter, and more inclusive with every passing year.

We are proud of what we’ve accomplished, and we know there is more to do. We are continuing to develop new programs, improve access to existing supports, and refine our policy framework to serve all Citizens more effectively.

If you are a Citizen looking to learn more about your rights, opportunities, or how to get involved, we encourage you to visit our Citizen Resources page. These tools are here to support you, because when our Citizens thrive, our Nation thrives.

Together, through responsible leadership and transparent administration, we are shaping a stronger Willow Lake Métis Nation.

A Message from the Leadership of Willow Lake Métis Nation

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 20:57:13 GMT

To Whom It May Concern:

We, the democratically elected leadership of the Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), are formally asserting our constitutionally protected rights under Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 in relation to proposed resource development projects in northwestern Saskatchewan.

Willow Lake Métis Nation is a historic and contemporary Métis community based in Anzac, Alberta. Our traditional territory extends eastward into what is now Saskatchewan, from Dore Lake in the south to Lake Athabasca in the north. Our people maintain ancestral and ongoing traditional ties to regions surrounding La Loche and the Clearwater River Dene Nation. These connections predate provincial boundaries and are reflected in the historical signing of Treaty 8 at Fort McMurray by members of the Portage La Loche group now known as the Clearwater River Dene Nation.

We have serious and valid concerns regarding the proposed uranium development in the Clearwater River watershed. The environmental impacts and the continued taking up of our traditional lands pose risks to our people, culture, and way of life. Despite our repeated efforts to engage, the Government of Canada and the proponents of these projects have failed to consult with WLMN.

In response, and as a matter of last resort in our obligation to protect the land and uphold the rights of our Citizens, Willow Lake Métis Nation has filed a Federal Court application filed June 20, 2025, seeking judicial review of Canada’s failure to fulfill its duty to consult. The application relates specifically to uranium mining projects proposed by NexGen Energy and Paladin Canada at Patterson Lake, Saskatchewan, located approximately 150 kilometers northeast of Fort McMurray.

We want to be clear: our assertion of rights does not conflict with or diminish any agreements made between other Indigenous Nations and the lease applicants. Our position is focused solely on ensuring the Crown’s duty to consult Willow Lake Métis Nation is meaningfully fulfilled. We are committed to respectful engagement and responsible development that includes all rights-holding Indigenous communities.

Respectfully,
The Leadership of Willow Lake Métis Nation

Building a Stronger Tomorrow Through Industry Relations

Mon, 26 May 2025 19:51:07 GMT

Rooted in Respect. Driven by Partnership.

At Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), our approach to industry relations is grounded in respect, transparency, and mutual benefit. Through strong, strategic partnerships, we are ensuring a sustainable future for our Citizens, protecting our rights, and supporting responsible economic development throughout Northern Alberta.

Our Industry Relations pillar focuses on collaboration - not just consultation. It’s about co-creating opportunities that reflect our values, protect our lands, and invest in our Nation’s future.

Partnership with Purpose

We are proud to walk alongside industry leaders who recognize the importance of working with Indigenous communities in a meaningful way. Our partners contribute more than resources - they bring a commitment to long-term relationship-building rooted in open dialogue, shared goals, and reconciliation.

Some of our key partnerships include:

Astisiy Limited Partnership

In a landmark move, the Willow Lake Métis Nation formed Astisiy Limited Partnership with Suncor Energy, making WLMN an equity partner in the Base Plant operations. This is not just an economic investment—it’s a bold step toward Indigenous ownership and influence in Alberta’s energy future. It’s a powerful example of how we can lead from a place of strength and vision when given a seat at the table.

Learn More About Astisiy

ConocoPhillips Canada

Our collaboration with ConocoPhillips Canada has created opportunities for community investment, employment, and education. Their commitment to building relationships founded on honesty and shared success reflects what WLMN stands for: protecting our way of life while moving forward with purpose.

Read About Our Work With Conoco Phillips

Keyera Partnership

Keyera’s respect for Indigenous rights and their support of community development have helped shape a partnership built on trust. Whether through education initiatives or environmental stewardship, our joint efforts reflect a shared desire to make meaningful contributions to the lives of our Citizens.

Explore The Keyera Partnership

Suncor Energy

In addition to our equity stake via Astisiy, our ongoing relationship with Suncor is rooted in shared responsibility. Suncor recognizes that sustainable development must include Indigenous voices—and we are ensuring our Citizens are represented and respected at every step.

Discover The Full Suncor Partnership

Willow Lake Métis Group: Advancing Economic Reconciliation Through Industry

While Willow Lake Métis Nation leads with community-first values, the Willow Lake Métis Group (WLMG) drives opportunity through industry. As the Nation’s economic development corporation, WLMG plays a critical role in ensuring our partnerships lead to real, tangible benefits for Citizens.

WLMG works directly with industry to deliver high-quality services across sectors, ranging from maintenance and construction to logistics and workforce solutions. But our work goes beyond service delivery. We are building a model of economic reconciliation: one that empowers Indigenous ownership, prioritizes sustainability, and creates long-term prosperity for our Citizens.

Through collaborations with partners, WLMG has positioned itself as a trusted Indigenous business leader across Northern Alberta. These relationships are not only helping companies meet their procurement and ESG goals, they are helping our Nation thrive.

Together with WLMN, WLMG is proud to support a shared vision of community wellness, environmental stewardship, and economic empowerment.

To learn more about WLMG services or partnership opportunities, visit Willow Lake Metis Group .

A Platform for Dialogue

We’ve created a platform where community and industry can come together. This is a space for open dialogue, shared decision-making, and the development of partnerships that benefit everyone. Through this, we are not only building a stronger economy, we are safeguarding our environment, our culture, and our Nation’s future.

Willow Lake Métis Nation has created a platform where industry and community can come together - openly, respectfully, and strategically. These relationships support:

Job creation and long-term employment for Citizens
Hands-on training and mentorship in key sectors
Revenue-sharing and investment in local programs
Protection of our land and resources guided by Métis values

We are building more than projects—we are building a legacy of collaboration, pride, and opportunity.

Our Commitment

Willow Lake Métis Nation is committed to:

Economic Development that aligns with our values
Environmental Stewardship that honours our traditional knowledge
Community Empowerment through training, employment, and cultural preservation
Mutual Respect and understanding in all relationships

We’re grateful to our partners who walk this path with us and recognize the strength of Indigenous leadership in shaping a better tomorrow.

Join us in building the future—together.

For more information on our industry relations and how you can get involved, visit Our Industry Partners .

Community Climate Risk Assessment and Report

Fri, 16 May 2025 18:12:31 GMT

In early 2024, we shared the publication of our Community Climate Risk Assessment and Report in collaboration with the Resilience Institute, Associated Engineering, and the Prairie Adaptation Research Collaborative. Exciting insights gained from this project are now a valuable guide for fellow local governments keen on enhancing their adaptation planning strategies.

View the report details and download the case study below.

Honouring MMIWG2S+ and Standing in Solidarity: Red Dress Day in Fort McMurray

Wed, 07 May 2025 16:30:29 GMT

Willow Lake Métis Nation was proud to stand in solidarity at this year’s Red Dress Day march in Fort McMurray, honouring missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people. Our Nation's own Stella Lavallee was featured in a Fort McMurray Today article, sharing her heartfelt perspective on the importance of this day.

“This crisis is not just a tragedy, it’s a reflection of deeper systems that have long failed Indigenous communities.”

Pioneering Pathways: Highlights from the Willow Lake Métis Nation Indigenous ESG Workshop

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 22:21:07 GMT

On November 12, 2024, the Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) hosted an impactful Indigenous Environmental, Social, and Governance (IESG) Workshop at the Anzac Recreation Center. This gathering marked a key milestone in uniting traditional Métis values with modern ESG practices, bringing together the Nation’s Elders Circle, its staff, and the Sustainability Steering Committee to shape a vision for the Nation's future.

A Platform for Progress

The workshop focused on evaluating WLMN's current efforts while identifying opportunities to enhance IESG initiatives. Discussions also touched on defining sustainability and exploring environmental, social, governance and Indigenous reconciliation priorities.

Traditional Environmental Knowledge

Western views often exclude the spiritual, relational, and holistic perspectives central to many Willow Lake Métis Nation’s worldviews, which regard all elements of the environment, including land, air, water, and animals, as interconnected, living, and embodied with spirit. The principle of Wahkohtowin (kinship and interconnectedness) reflects WLMN’s deep respect for the land, water, air, and all living beings. There is no prioritization of environmental elements, all are viewed as equally important.

Social Highlights

WLMN’s Citizen programs play a vital role in the social dimension of IESG, fostering community capacity, cultural continuity, and youth empowerment. Willow Lake Métis Nation’s social supports tie back to IESG through empowerment & self-sufficiency, community well-being & growth, cultural identity & inclusion, stronger social network, and breaking cycles.

Governance Insights

The workshop highlighted the critical role of ethics, transparency, and board diversity in governance. Participants explored ways to strengthen WLMN's leadership through accountable practices and robust oversight mechanisms that reflect both traditional values and contemporary expectations. These insights lay the groundwork for a more dynamic and inclusive governance framework.

Driving Indigenous Reconciliation

A central theme of the discussions was the integration of Indigenous knowledge and rights into ESG practices. Priorities included preserving WLMN’s cultural identity, protecting land use, and promoting equitable opportunities within projects. By weaving these principles into its ESG pathway, WLMN is setting a benchmark for reconciliation that bridges its heritage with sustainable development.

Thoughts on Sustainability

At the heart of our mission lies a deep respect for the land and a longstanding connection to WLMN, grounded in history, culture, and traditional knowledge. We are committed to a balanced approach to development, ownership, and environmental stewardship that ensures the health of our natural resources—clean water, thriving wildlife, and fertile land that supports hunting, harvesting, and sustainable food systems.

Our vision is to build a resilient, independent Nation through responsible reclamation and measured, thoughtful decision-making. By investing in future generations, we aim to foster long-term growth while preserving our language, culture, and values.

We are committed to growing more food, supporting healthier living through clean air and water, and protecting the plants and animals that share our ecosystem. Grounded in fairness, knowledge, and accountability, our efforts prioritize the sustainability of resources for those who come after us.

As we move forward, our focus on financial freedom, local self-sufficiency, and reduced reliance on external inputs will support a thriving, equitable, and culturally rooted community. Together, we strive toward a shared future that upholds the integrity of the land, sustains our prosperity, and honors the traditions that define us.

Next Steps

With these priorities in mind, WLMN is preparing for the next phase of its journey, which includes:

Finalizing the sustainability framework, along with defined IESG priorities.
Use the in-depth current-state analysis to guide WLMN’s IESG strategy.
Establishing long-term sustainability goals and measurable benchmarks.

A Vision for the Future

This workshop is more than a step forward; it’s a reflection of WLMN’s commitment to its land, culture, and people. By embracing Métis knowledge and heritage while advancing innovative governance practices, WLMN is laying the foundation for a resilient and prosperous future.

As these initiatives unfold, they serve as a testament to WLMN’s leadership in harmonizing tradition with modernity. This journey is one of collective purpose, aimed at building not only sustainability but a legacy of equity, empowerment, and community for generations to come.

More Than Training: The Social Power of IESG in Workforce Development

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 19:55:29 GMT

The Indigenous, Environmental, Social, Governance (IESG) framework is a values-driven approach that centers Indigenous perspectives and priorities in shaping sustainable and equitable development. It goes beyond conventional ESG models by embedding Indigenous knowledge systems, cultural values, and community leadership at every level. Within this framework, educational programs play a vital role in the social dimension of IESG, fostering community capacity, cultural continuity, and youth empowerment. Willow Lake Métis Nation’s social supports tie back to IESG through:

Empowerment & Self-Sufficiency: By providing job opportunities and skill development, individuals gain financial independence, reducing reliance on social assistance and enhancing their overall stability.
Community Well-Being & Growth: When more Citizens are employed and trained, communities experience economic growth, leading to better housing, healthcare, and education opportunities.
Cultural Identity & Inclusion: Employment and training programs can be designed to align with Métis and Indigenous values, ensuring that cultural identity is preserved and celebrated in the workforce.
Stronger Social Networks: Workplace connections, mentorships, and training programs help build supportive social networks, reducing isolation and increasing a sense of belonging.
Breaking Cycles of Unemployment: Training initiatives create pathways for long-term career success, helping future generations access better opportunities and reducing systemic unemployment.

Willow Lake Métis Nation’s Employment Programs

At Willow Lake Métis Nation, we are committed to supporting our Citizens in achieving their education, training, and career goals. Our employment and training programs provide financial assistance, skill development, and access to job opportunities to help individuals succeed in their chosen fields, including:

Employment Programs

Post-Secondary Program: This program supports Citizens pursuing post-secondary education by providing funding for tuition, books, and essential academic resources.
Trades and Field Training: This program equips Citizens with the necessary skills and certifications for employment in trades and construction. It covers the cost of safety and on-site construction tickets and provides personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure workplace readiness.

Employment and Career Development

Career Fairs & Job Opportunities: Willow Lake Métis Nation hosts two annual career fairs, connecting Citizens with potential employers and training opportunities.
Workshops & One-on-One Support: We offer specialized workshops and individual sessions to help participants enhance their employability, develop career plans, and gain valuable industry insights.

By investing in education, training, and career development, we empower our Citizens to build sustainable futures while strengthening the economic foundation of our Nation.

Creating Networks: The Power of WLMN's Support in Job Training

The education, training, and employment programs offered by Willow Lake Métis Nation have a significant and lasting impact on individuals, families, and the broader community. These programs help bridge employment gaps, enhance career prospects, and strengthen the Nation’s economic future.

Increased Employment Opportunities: By funding post-secondary education, trades training, and safety certifications, Citizens gain the qualifications and skills needed to secure stable, well-paying jobs.
Career fairs and employer connections provide direct pathways to employment.
Economic Growth & Self-Sufficiency: Supporting Citizens in finding employment reduces reliance on government assistance and increases financial independence.
A well-trained workforce attracts industry partnerships and investment, creating more job opportunities within the community.
Empowerment & Confidence: Access to education and training boosts self-esteem and motivation, helping individuals take charge of their career paths.
One-on-one career support and workshops provide personalized guidance, ensuring participants feel supported in their journey.
Stronger Community & Cultural Preservation: Economic stability allows Citizens to stay within their communities rather than seeking work elsewhere, preserving Métis culture and traditions.
Employment success contributes to intergenerational benefits, inspiring younger generations to pursue education and meaningful careers.
Workplace Safety & Industry Readiness: Providing personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety training ensures that Citizens enter the workforce prepared and protected, reducing workplace risks.

Overall, these programs strengthen individuals, families, and the Nation as a whole, fostering a prosperous and self-reliant Métis community for generations to come.

The Willow Lake Métis Nation's employment and training programs aim to enhance the economic well-being of its Citizens. While specific outcome statistics for these programs are not publicly available, broader data on similar initiatives provide insight into their potential impact:

Higher Employment Rates with Education: In 2021, Indigenous individuals aged 25 to 54 with a bachelor's degree or higher had an employment rate of 86%, compared to 60% for those with only a high school diploma.
Increased Earnings for Tradespeople: Male Indigenous journeypersons reported a median employment income of $71,100, approximately $7,000 higher than their non-Indigenous counterparts.
Reduced Employment Gaps through Training: Programs like the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) initiative aim to improve employment and earnings outcomes for Métis individuals, thereby reducing disparities between Métis and non-Indigenous populations.

These figures suggest that comprehensive employment and training programs, similar to those implemented by the Willow Lake Métis Nation, can lead to higher employment rates and increased earnings among participants. Such programs contribute to individual prosperity and the overall economic development of Indigenous communities.

Ongoing Support For Citizens

Standalone programs are a valuable starting point, but they cannot be the sole solution to addressing the complex and evolving needs of Citizens. To truly support individuals and foster long-term success, these initiatives must be part of an ongoing, integrated effort. Here’s why:

Sustained Support and Long-Term Impact

One-time programs may provide short-term benefits, but ongoing support is necessary to ensure that Citizens can sustain and build upon their progress. This includes continued access to training, career development, mentorship, and educational resources. Without this support, Citizens may face barriers that prevent them from fully utilizing the skills and opportunities they’ve gained.

Adapting to Changing Needs

Communities evolve, and so do the needs of Citizens. As industries change, new technologies emerge, and economic conditions shift, it’s crucial to offer ongoing training and development opportunities to keep up with these changes. A continuous learning environment ensures that Citizens remain competitive and adaptable in the workforce.

Building a Holistic Support System

Employment and training programs need to be integrated with other social services - such as childcare, housing support, mental health resources, and financial literacy training - to address the full range of factors that impact an individual’s success. Standalone programs may not consider these broader challenges, but an ongoing effort ensures Citizens have access to the comprehensive support they need to thrive.

Fostering a Culture of Empowerment and Self-Sufficiency

By offering consistent engagement through workshops, career coaching, networking opportunities, and mentorship, Citizens feel valued and empowered to take charge of their careers. The goal is to create a culture of lifelong learning and self-sufficiency, where Citizens are continually encouraged to grow and reach new milestones.

Community Building and Networking

Standalone programs often fail to foster a sense of community and connection among participants. However, ongoing efforts that include networking events, career fairs, and peer support groups can help Citizens form lasting relationships that contribute to their success. These connections often lead to collaborative job opportunities, mentorship, and community-wide growth.

Tracking Progress and Measuring Success

Ongoing programs allow organizations to track progress over time, making it possible to measure success, identify areas of improvement, and adjust strategies. This continual feedback loop is essential for ensuring that Citizens receive the support they need at every stage of their journey.

The Indigenous, Environmental, Social, and Governance (IESG) framework emphasizes the importance of long-term, sustainable practices that benefit Indigenous communities. When we consider employment and training programs within the context of IESG, it’s clear that ongoing support is critical for ensuring lasting success, economic empowerment, and community resilience. Here’s how this relates to the importance and impact of IESG:

Social Impact through Long-Term Support

The social aspect of IESG focuses on creating positive, lasting impacts on Indigenous communities. Standalone programs can offer short-term assistance, but the ongoing support necessary to foster community development, improve educational outcomes, and reduce employment gaps requires continuous effort. The success of employment and training programs relies on more than just providing initial training; it requires ongoing career support, mentorship, networking, and opportunities for advancement to truly uplift individuals in a meaningful way.

By adopting a long-term, integrated approach that includes consistent training and support, the IESG framework encourages holistic growth within Indigenous communities. This creates an environment where Citizens can not only secure stable employment but also continue to thrive and contribute to their community’s growth.

Governance and Sustainability

IESG places strong emphasis on governance and sustainability. For employment and training programs to be effective in the long term, they must be part of a well-governed, sustainable strategy. Standalone programs may fall short without an overarching governance structure to provide continuous funding, measure outcomes, and track progress. IESG supports transparent governance to ensure that these programs are effective, and that resources are continually directed toward meeting the evolving needs of Citizens.

Through this lens, ongoing efforts to support Citizens ensure that the programs remain sustainable, adaptable, and aligned with the goals of the community over time. It encourages Indigenous leadership to take ownership of these programs and direct them in ways that fit the unique needs of the community.

Environmental and Social Sustainability

The environmental aspect of IESG also ties into the sustainability of training and employment opportunities. For programs to be successful in the long run, they must not only focus on individual development but also take into account the community’s broader environmental context. Indigenous communities are deeply connected to their land, and training programs should incorporate environmental awareness, sustainable job practices, and eco-friendly industries.

Incorporating these elements into ongoing training helps ensure that new industries and job opportunities align with Indigenous values and respect for the land, creating sustainable careers that support the community without compromising the environment.

Community Empowerment and Self-Sufficiency

IESG aims to empower communities by focusing on social equality, fostering self-sufficiency, and promoting Indigenous leadership. Employment and training programs within the IESG framework should be designed to not only provide skills but also build confidence, self-esteem, and leadership potential.

Through ongoing engagement and development, these programs provide the tools for individuals to achieve long-term success while contributing to the broader social and economic development of their communities. This empowerment helps break cycles of dependency, which aligns directly with the social goals of the IESG framework.

In the context of IESG, standalone programs serve as a crucial starting point, but sustained, ongoing support is essential for achieving true success. IESG emphasizes the interconnectedness of social, environmental, and governance factors, and an ongoing approach to employment and training ensures that communities do not only benefit in the short term but continue to thrive in a sustainable, empowering, and culturally aligned manner for generations to come.

Honouring the Past, Sustaining the Future: Willow Lake Métis Nation’s Cultural Retention Strategy

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 18:23:06 GMT

For the Citizens of Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), culture is not just history—it’s a living, breathing way of life.

Rooted in the land, water, and traditions passed down through generations, WLMN’s cultural retention efforts are about preserving knowledge, strengthening identity, and ensuring that Métis ways continue to thrive for generations to come.

Living in Balance with the Land

Métis identity is deeply connected to the land. As Kyle Whitford, WLMN’s Indigenous Guardian, describes, “My role is to be the voice for the land, the water, and the animals around us.”

The traditional practices of hunting, fishing, and trapping are more than survival skills—they are acts of stewardship. These practices teach respect for nature and reinforce the belief that all elements of the ecosystem are interconnected.

Cultural retention at WLMN means ensuring that future generations understand this relationship. Through the Nation’s on the land initiatives like fish camps, harvest camps, and berry-picking gatherings, knowledge keepers share essential teachings about sustainable harvesting, land stewardship, and traditional food systems. These opportunities are not just about learning Métis traditions; they are about living them.

Sharing Knowledge Across Generations

Knowledge is meant to be shared, not stored away.

For many Métis families, cultural teachings are passed down informally—through time spent on the land, storytelling, and community gatherings. Kyle recalls growing up with his grandfather, learning to trap, hunt, and live off the land. “I couldn’t tell you the first time I went hunting because I was doing it before I could even remember,” he shares.

Today, WLMN ensures that these teachings remain accessible by opening their cultural camps to anyone willing to learn. Métis and non-Métis people alike are invited to experience firsthand the harvesting traditions that sustain both people and the land.

“It’s not just about retaining our culture,” Kyle explains. “It’s about showing others what Métis ways truly are.”

Bridging Traditional Knowledge and Western Science

In a world where industrial development and environmental concerns often collide, WLMN is working to bring balance. The Nation’s sustainability department is integrating Métis knowledge with Western science to monitor and protect the land. Programs like the Oil Sands Monitoring program allow the community to scientifically validate what Elders and land users have always known—that environmental shifts impact everything.

Kyle highlights the importance of this approach: “For years, Elders have said the moose are getting more ticks, that the water is changing, that the land is shifting. Now, we can prove it in ways that industry and government understand.”

This ability to translate traditional knowledge into data strengthens WLMN’s advocacy efforts and ensures that Indigenous voices are heard in environmental decision-making.

Strengthening Métis Identity Through Community

Métis culture is not just about land use—it’s also about the values that hold the community together.

Generosity, sharing, and hospitality are at the heart of WLMN’s cultural retention efforts. As Kyle recalls, “Growing up, my grandmother always had food ready for visitors. If we got a moose, we shared it with the Elders and families in need.”

This spirit of community continues today. Whether through organized cultural programs or informal knowledge-sharing, WLMN ensures that Métis traditions of care, respect, and togetherness remain strong.

Looking to the Future

Cultural retention is about securing a future where Métis ways of life continue to thrive.

Willow Lake Métis Nation’s efforts to blend traditional knowledge with modern tools, pass down teachings, and advocate for environmental stewardship all contribute to a legacy that will last for generations.

As Kyle puts it, “I want my work to pay off 50, 60 years from now. I want my nieces and nephews to be able to look back and say, ‘Kyle and the sustainability team made sure our ways were still here.’”

Through cultural retention, WLMN is ensuring that Métis identity remains not just a memory, but a way of life.

Living in Balance: Willow Lake Métis Nation’s Commitment to Environmental Stewardship

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 18:14:39 GMT

For the Métis people of Willow Lake, the land, water, and animals are not just resources—they are relatives. The environment is woven into every aspect of Métis life, from sustenance to spiritual connection, and protecting it is a responsibility carried forward by each generation.

As Kyle Whitford of the WLMN sustainability department explains, his role is to be “the voice for the land and the water and the animals around us.”

This responsibility isn’t just about conservation; it’s about listening to what the environment is telling us and ensuring that industry, government, and future generations hear it too.

A Duty to Protect the Land for Generations to Come

For Kyle and many others in the Nation, environmental protection isn’t an abstract idea—it’s about survival, both now and in the future.

“My family and a lot of families in our community and our Nation, we actually rely on the fish, the animals for consumption. It’s our bread and butter, I guess you could say,” he shares.

This deep reliance on nature means that any harm to the land or water directly impacts the well-being of the people.

“We’ve got to uphold a good, healthy environment for future generations,” Kyle states.

Holding Industry Accountable

While environmental sustainability has always been part of Métis culture, modern industry presents new challenges.

Willow Lake Métis Nation works directly with industry partners to ensure development is done responsibly. “We’ve got to hold accountability for them,” Kyle explains, “and that all boils down to our water, animals, and everything in between.”

This accountability isn’t about shutting down development—it’s about working together in an ethical space where everyone benefits.

“I don’t know if you ever heard of [Dr. Elmer] Ghostkeeper,” Kyle says, referencing a well-known Indigenous leader, “but he mentioned how important it is to want to work in an ethical space with industry and our community members — where everybody has the same goal and is working in peace and harmony.”

The Ecosystem is a Delicate Balance

Kyle and his team understand that every element of the environment is connected.

“If you take one section out, one living organism or one animal, everything gets unbalanced.” He refers to an example from Yellowstone National Park, where the reintroduction of wolves completely reshaped the landscape.

“The wolves would eat the elk, so the elk wouldn’t eat the vegetation by the river, which allowed the riverbanks to stay strong. It all had to do with the beavers and everything being interconnected.”

This understanding is what drives the Nation’s environmental efforts. “Our goal is to keep everything in balance where we monitor fish, animals, and the water itself… If one animal gets too much, they get overpopulated and diseased. It’s just a big ecosystem.”

Bridging Traditional Knowledge and Western Science

For years, Elders have spoken about changes in the environment, but their observations were often dismissed without scientific proof. Now, WLMN is ensuring that traditional knowledge is backed by data.

With the Nation’s Oil Sands Monitoring (OSM) program and sustainability department, that proof is now being gathered.

“We get a chance to use Western science technology to reiterate what our Elders are saying so we can talk [in] their language. If our Elders say the moose are getting ticks earlier because of an earlier thaw, we can confirm that with our camera programs. We can link what they’re saying to Western science terminology.”

This blending of Indigenous knowledge and scientific methods allows the Nation to advocate more effectively for environmental protections.

“Now, when industry or government asks for proof, we have it. We’re not just saying it—we’re showing it.”

A Future Built on Respect for the Land

At its heart, environmental stewardship in Willow Lake Métis Nation is about respect—respect for the land, for the knowledge passed down through generations, and for the future. “Everything is interconnected,” Kyle says. “If we don’t take care of the land, the land won’t take care of us.”

By combining traditional Métis values with modern environmental science, WLMN is ensuring that their homeland remains healthy and abundant—not just for today, but for generations to come.

Embracing Indigenous Wisdom in ESG Practices: Insights from Willow Lake Métis Nation

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 18:49:32 GMT

As environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks continue to shape corporate and institutional decision-making, the inclusion of Indigenous knowledge is emerging as a powerful catalyst in advancing sustainability goals. The Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) exemplifies how Indigenous perspectives and practices can enrich ESG frameworks, offering a model for others to follow.

Who Are the Willow Lake Métis Nation?

The Willow Lake Métis Nation traces its roots to a proud Métis heritage , steeped in the culture and traditions of the people of the fur trade era who settled around Willow Lake (now Gregoire Lake) in Northern Alberta. Today, the Nation is a vibrant community that blends their historical knowledge and connection to the land with modern tools to address pressing environmental and social challenges.

Their work spans a range of areas, from promoting sustainable resource development to ensuring community well-being, and they have embraced ESG principles as a means of building a resilient future for their Nation.

Integrating Indigenous Wisdom into ESG Practices

The traditional knowledge held by WLMN is deeply aligned with ESG principles, emphasizing harmony with nature, equity, and ethical leadership. Their work provides a blueprint for integrating these values into contemporary frameworks.

1.Environmental Stewardship

WLMN prioritizes the health of their lands and waters as central to their survival and identity. They recognize that sustainable development requires a balance between resource use and environmental protection, echoing ESG objectives around environmental sustainability.

Case Study: Climate Risk Assessment

In collaboration with external partners, WLMN conducted a Climate Risk Assessment to understand the potential impacts of climate change and extreme weather events on their Nation. This proactive step helps ensure that their community and businesses can adapt to future challenges while continuing to protect their traditional lands.

ESG Alignment :

Environmental : The assessment supports informed decision-making to safeguard biodiversity, water systems, and traditional practices.
Governance : By actively engaging with climate science, WLMN demonstrates leadership in aligning traditional knowledge with modern environmental strategies.

Innovative Restoration Projects

WLMN is involved in habitat restoration projects that incorporate traditional land management practices. By using local and traditional knowledge, the Nation is revitalizing areas affected by industrial activities, ensuring the sustainability of the environment for future generations.

2. Social Equity and Community Well-being

Social responsibility is a cornerstone of ESG, and WLMN has been a champion of fostering equity and cultural preservation. Their initiatives prioritize the well-being of their people while contributing to the broader community.

Case Study: Capacity Building through Willow Lake Métis Group

The Nation’s partner, Willow Lake Métis Group (WLMG) was established as an Indigenous-owned group of companies that provides resource and infrastructure solutions while staying true to Métis values. A percentage of profits earned by WLMG are reinvested in the Nation’s education and other social programs. The group also actively works to create employment and training opportunities for Métis individuals, empowering them with skills and financial independence.

ESG Alignment :

Social : WLMG initiatives build social equity by addressing employment gaps and fostering community-driven economic development.
Governance : By prioritizing Métis leadership in decision-making, WLMG models an inclusive governance structure.

Health and Cultural Programs

WLMN also invests in programs that address health disparities and strengthen cultural heritage. These initiatives ensure that community members thrive physically and spiritually while preserving their identity.

3. Governance with Integrity

Good governance is essential for building trust and ensuring that ESG initiatives are both ethical and effective. WLMN’s governance model is rooted in transparency, consensus-building, and respect for traditional values.

Case Study: Ethical Partnerships in Industry

WLMN has cultivated partnerships with resource companies to ensure that industrial development on their traditional lands respects Métis rights and values. These collaborations often include benefit-sharing agreements, environmental monitoring, and consultation processes.

ESG Alignment :

Governance : By negotiating agreements that prioritize transparency and accountability, WLMN ensures that all stakeholders act responsibly.
Social : Partnerships promote mutual respect and collaboration, empowering the Nation to influence decisions affecting their lands.

Advocacy and Leadership

WLMN actively participates in regional and national advocacy efforts to uphold Métis rights and advance policies that reflect their community’s needs. Their leadership in these spaces inspires other Indigenous Nations to take a proactive role in shaping ESG conversations.

Challenges and Opportunities

While WLMN has made significant strides in integrating their knowledge and practices into ESG frameworks, challenges remain. These include overcoming systemic inequities, securing long-term funding for initiatives, and navigating the complexities of balancing traditional practices with modern industrial demands.

However, the opportunities far outweigh the obstacles. By continuing to share their expertise and collaborate with partners, WLMN is setting a precedent for how Indigenous Nations can lead in the ESG space.

Lessons from Willow Lake Métis Nation for ESG Leaders

WLMN’s approach offers several key lessons for organizations seeking to integrate Indigenous wisdom into their ESG strategies:

Collaborate Authentically : Build genuine partnerships with Indigenous communities, ensuring that they are actively involved in decision-making from the outset.
Prioritize Long-Term Impact : Adopt a mindset that values intergenerational sustainability over short-term profits and reflects Indigenous principles.
Respect Sovereignty : Recognize Indigenous Nations as equal stakeholders and respect their right to self-determination in all projects.
Invest in Capacity Building : Support Indigenous communities through training, education, and infrastructure to ensure their full participation in ESG initiatives.

The Path Forward

The Willow Lake Métis Nation exemplifies how Indigenous knowledge and leadership can enhance ESG practices. By aligning their traditional values with contemporary frameworks, they are driving meaningful progress in environmental stewardship, social equity, and ethical governance.

For organizations striving to achieve sustainability goals, partnering with Indigenous communities like WLMN offers a pathway to create lasting change. As the global movement for ESG evolves, the inclusion of Indigenous wisdom will be essential to ensuring that sustainability efforts honor the interconnectedness of people, planet, and prosperity.

By learning from and collaborating with leaders like the Willow Lake Métis Nation, the world can take an important step toward a more equitable and sustainable future.

Biodiversity: The Foundation for Sustainable Development

brad@ciprcommunications.com (Brad Stables) — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 18:26:29 GMT

Biodiversity is a buzzword that’s gained widespread currency in recent times, but the concept of it has been recognized and celebrated by Indigenous peoples for many thousands of years. Biodiversity is the intricate web of life that sustains ecosystems, economies, and human well-being. It encompasses everything from the air we breathe to the food we eat, connecting every element of our existence with nature's diversity.

This understanding has long guided Indigenous stewardship of the land. For many, the land is more than a resource—it is a relative, a teacher, and a provider. As some say —"my trapline is my church," which is a reminder that the land is not just a place of survival but of deep spiritual connection.

Trees, rocks, and water are not inanimate objects; they hold spirit and life, shaping the world around us in ways both seen and unseen. Biodiversity encompasses the entire web of life—air, water, land, and all beings that depend on them.

Sadly, biodiversity — and the importance of it — faces an unprecedented decline in the modern world, threatening not only the natural world but the very foundations of sustainable development.

Efforts to reverse this trend are critical, and organizations like the Willow Lake Métis Nation are leading the way with initiatives that highlight the integral relationship between biodiversity and sustainable development.

Biodiversity: The Key to a Sustainable Future

Biodiversity is more than just a measure of species—it is the living relationship between air, water, land, and animals, each depending on the other to thrive. When water is clean and healthy, the animals that rely on it flourish, and in turn, the balance of the entire ecosystem is maintained.

Sustainable development seeks to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own. This vision depends on healthy ecosystems that provide essential services such as clean water, fertile soils, climate regulation, and pollination.

However, global biodiversity loss undermines these critical systems. Industrial expansion, deforestation, and climate change have driven a rapid decline in species and habitats. The ripple effects are far-reaching: reduced agricultural productivity, increased vulnerability to natural disasters, and disruptions in cultural and spiritual practices rooted in nature.

Protecting biodiversity is not just an environmental issue—it is an economic, social, and cultural imperative that requires collective action.

Willow Lake Métis Nation: Indigenous Leadership in Biodiversity Protection

Indigenous knowledge has long recognized that trees, rocks, and waterways are not just physical elements of the land but living beings with spirit and purpose. Honoring this interconnectedness ensures that conservation is not just about preservation but about maintaining the harmony that has sustained life for generations.

The Willow Lake Métis Nation offers a powerful example of Indigenous-led conservation. With deep cultural ties to the land, the Métis people have long been stewards of biodiversity, understanding that healthy ecosystems are vital for their way of life.

The Willow Lake Métis Nation’s initiatives prioritize the protection of biodiversity through sustainable land management, traditional ecological knowledge, and community-driven projects. One key effort involves restoring and safeguarding wetlands, which serve as critical habitats for wildlife while also providing flood control and water purification services.

Through the Oil Sands Monitoring Program , WLMN’s Sustainability Department is conducting comprehensive water quality assessments across Cheecham, Surmont, Sucker, and Kinosis Lakes. This initiative is essential for understanding and mitigating any potential environmental impacts from nearby industrial activities, ensuring these waterways remain a thriving habitat for generations to come.

Collaboration between Indigenous communities and government-led environmental programs highlights the power of partnership in protecting our natural resources. By integrating Métis traditional knowledge with modern scientific monitoring, WLMN is not only safeguarding water quality but also strengthening cultural ties to the land.

Biodiversity and the Path to Sustainable Development Goals

The 16th United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16) convened in Cali, Colombia, from October 21 to November 1, 2024, to address the escalating global biodiversity crisis. Despite extensive negotiations, the conference concluded without consensus on key financial mechanisms and a global monitoring framework for biodiversity conservation. However, significant progress was made with the establishment of a subsidiary body to involve Indigenous peoples in conservation decisions, acknowledging their vital role in protecting biodiversity. Additionally, the conference introduced the "Cali Fund," aimed at equitably sharing benefits from the commercial use of genetic resources. These developments underscore the critical importance of collaborative efforts in safeguarding our planet's biodiversity.

Another notable framework for enhancing biodiversity is Canada's 2030 Nature Strategy. Canada’s 2030 Nature Strategy: Halting and Reversing Biodiversity Loss in Canada contains multiple pillars recognize role of Indigenous Peoples:

Recognizing, upholding, and implementing the rights of Indigenous Peoples and advancing reconciliation, as Indigenous Peoples are the original caretakers of the lands, waters, and ice.
Ensuring a whole-of-government, whole-of-society approach to create policy coherence and draw on the strengths of every segment of society to build and deliver the solutions we need.
Supporting a resilient economy and improving efficiency and certainty, as our prosperity is inherently linked to a healthy environment.
Empowering on-the-ground action by reflecting regional differences, supporting communities, and adopting flexible community-based approaches.
Using the best available science and knowledge, incorporating new insights, sharing information, and giving equal weight to western science and Indigenous Knowledge.
Applying integrated, holistic approaches to ensure our actions are inclusive and transparent.

Initiatives led by organizations like Willow Lake Métis Nation exemplify how collaborative efforts can drive progress toward these goals. By integrating biodiversity into decision-making, restoring ecosystems, and promoting community engagement, they demonstrate that sustainable development is not only possible but essential for our shared future.

For Indigenous peoples, biodiversity is not just a scientific concept—it is a way of life. The land, water, air, and animals are all connected, each playing a role in the delic ate balance that sustains us. When one part of this system is disrupted, the effects are felt across all others.

As biodiversity continues to face mounting threats, the need for action is more urgent than ever. Governments, businesses, Indigenous communities, and individuals must work together to protect and restore the natural systems that sustain life.

The work of Willow Lake Métis Nation serves as a reminder that meaningful change is achievable through partnership and innovation. By prioritizing biodiversity, we can secure a sustainable, equitable, and resilient future for all.

Let us rise to the challenge, honouring the diversity of life that enriches our world and ensures our collective well-being. Together, we can make a difference.

Willow Lake Métis Nation Celebrates Stella Lavallee’s Stevie Award Win for Female Thought Leader of the Year

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 18:41:02 GMT

The Willow Lake Métis Nation proudly announces that Stella Lavallee, Executive Director and President, has been honoured with the Bronze Stevie® Award for Female Thought Leader of the Year in the Government or Non-Profit category at the 21st annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business. The awards ceremony took place on November 8 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City, celebrating outstanding achievements by women in leadership roles worldwide.

The Stevie Awards, often referred to as the “Oscars of Business,” recognize excellence in leadership, innovation, and community impact across various sectors. Lavallee’s accolade highlights her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the Willow Lake Métis Nation. Since assuming her role in 2016, she has spearheaded transformative initiatives, including the establishment of the Seven Pillars of Governance, the creation of a health spending account for Elders, and the implementation of educational support programs to eliminate financial barriers for Citizen students.

Under her guidance, the Nation has also achieved significant infrastructure advancements, such as the deployment of fiber optic internet, bridging the digital divide and enhancing access to essential resources for all Citizens.

“Receiving the Bronze Stevie Award is a profound honor,” said Stella Lavallee. “This recognition reflects the collective efforts of our community and our shared commitment to preserving Métis heritage while fostering growth and resilience. I am deeply grateful to the Willow Lake Métis Nation for their trust and support.”

The Willow Lake Métis Nation extends heartfelt congratulations to Stella Lavallee for this distinguished achievement. Her leadership continues to inspire and set a benchmark for Indigenous governance and community development.

Honouring Indigenous Veterans Day: A Tribute to Bill Woodward and Other Indigenous Heroes

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 21:47:49 GMT

Today, on Indigenous Veterans Day, we honour the countless Indigenous men and women who bravely served in Canada’s armed forces. Their stories are not only of courage and resilience but also of an enduring dedication to their communities and country. One such individual, who embodies the spirit of service and bravery, is Bill Woodward.

Bill’s story is one of remarkable courage and sacrifice. Bill left the familiar lands of Northern Alberta to join the Royal Canadian Armed Forces during World War II. Lying about his age to enlist, he was soon shipped off to Europe, where he would be tested in some of the most grueling combat scenarios of the war.

The most notable engagement of his military career was at Monte Cassino in Italy—a pivotal and bloody battle in the Italian Campaign that cost around 55,000 Allied lives. In this clash, Bill and his platoon fell into a German ambush despite Bill—his bush savvy coming in handy in wartime—having warned his lieutenant that something was wrong. This resulted in heavy casualties and his capture.

For 108 harrowing days, Bill endured captivity, while back home his mother, Susanne Woodward held onto hope despite having received a letter stating that her son was missing in action and presumed dead. For weeks and months, she would meet every train arriving in town with the belief that her son would come home. Against all odds, her faith was rewarded, and Bill returned to his family—a hero with a lifetime of stories to tell.

His acts of bravery continued well beyond the battlefield. Bill’s lifelong commitment to helping others shines in stories of his everyday heroism. From rescuing accident victims over the edge of a cliff to saving co-workers with a broken hip after a railroad accident, he continually put others’ safety before his own. These selfless acts earned him numerous accolades, including a Sharpshooting Award, a Humanitarian Award, and the Alberta Centennial Medal for Lifetime Achievement.

For Bill, however, his most cherished token was his volunteer pin, a testament to his proud spirit of service. It symbolized not only his contributions on the front lines but his unwavering dedication to helping others throughout his life.

Today, we reflect on the sacrifices of Indigenous veterans like Bill Woodward. These men and women joined the ranks of Canada’s armed forces, driven by loyalty to their communities and the desire for a better future. Indigenous soldiers have served with distinction in both world wars and in conflicts and peacekeeping missions worldwide. Their contributions often went unrecognized, but their stories and sacrifices have left an enduring legacy.

Willow Lake Métis Nation honours the memory and spirit of Indigenous veterans who, like Bill, embody the strength, resilience, and selflessness of our communities. This Indigenous Veterans Day, we stand united in respect, remembrance, and gratitude for their sacrifices and for the freedoms they safeguarded for future generations.

Lest we forget.

Willow Lake Métis Nation Celebrates Stella Lavallee’s Nomination as a Stevie Award Finalist for Female Thought Leader of the Year

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 21:31:26 GMT

In an exciting recognition of her leadership, vision, and commitment to community empowerment, Stella Lavallee, Executive Director and President of Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), has been nominated as a finalist for the prestigious Stevie Award for Female Thought Leader of the Year in the Government or Non-Profit category.

This esteemed accolade, to be awarded in New York City early next month, shines a global spotlight on Stella’s groundbreaking contributions to governance and Citizen support for the Nation.

What Are the Stevie Awards?

The Stevie® Awards were established in 2002 to honor and promote outstanding achievements in the workplace, focusing on exceptional contributions across industries, business practices, and roles. Known as the “Oscars of Business,” the Stevies recognize visionary leaders, innovative thinkers, and impactful initiatives that drive positive change within organizations and communities worldwide. The awards program spans a variety of categories, including leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship, across different sectors such as government, non-profit, and corporate sectors.

The Female Thought Leader of the Year Award, for which Stella is nominated, is a category dedicated to honouring women in leadership roles who have significantly impacted their organizations or communities. These finalists are selected for their exemplary dedication, influence, and ability to inspire change. For Stella to be named a finalist in this highly competitive category is a testament to her profound influence on WLMN and her transformative work in community development and advocacy for Métis Citizens in Canada.

A Visionary Leader for Willow Lake Métis Nation

Stella Lavallee’s journey with Willow Lake Métis Nation began in 2016, when she assumed the role of Executive Director and President. Her leadership has been marked by a blend of strategic foresight, cultural pride, and an unyielding commitment to the well-being of WLMN’s Citizens. As a leader, Stella possesses an exceptional ability to unite people around a shared vision, bringing together diverse ideas and perspectives to create a governance model that not only serves her community but also elevates it as a model of progressive Indigenous governance in Canada.

Since Stella took on her leadership role, WLMN has undergone significant growth and transformation. Her leadership style combines a forward-thinking approach with deep respect for Métis heritage, creating a dynamic framework that addresses both current needs and long-term aspirations. Under her guidance, WLMN has made strides in areas such as governance, policy development, education, health, and infrastructure—each of which reflects her commitment to sustainable growth and Citizen empowerment.

Setting a New Standard for Métis Governance

Stella’s accomplishments are both numerous and impactful, reflecting her strategic vision for WLMN and her dedication to the community’s prosperity and well-being. Some of the most notable initiatives that Stella has spearheaded include:

Seven Pillars of Governance

One of Stella’s earliest and most transformative achievements at WLMN was the establishment of the Seven Pillars of Governance . These pillars serve as the foundation for all decision-making within the Nation, ensuring that policies and programs align with the values and priorities of the community. This governance framework is a powerful tool for decision-making that integrates traditional values with modern governance, helping WLMN to navigate the complexities of community development in a rapidly changing world.

Health Spending Account for Elders

In a groundbreaking initiative, Stella led the creation of a health spending account specifically for WLMN Elders, making WLMN the first Métis Nation in Canada to implement such a program. Recognizing the often-overlooked health needs of Elders, Stella worked tirelessly to secure funding and navigate regulatory challenges to make this support possible. This initiative not only provides essential health resources to Elders but also reinforces a fundamental principle of Métis culture: honouring and caring for the community’s Elders.

Financial Support for Education and Families

Stella’s commitment to eliminating barriers to education is another significant hallmark of her leadership. Under her direction, WLMN now provides funding to cover tuition costs for all WLMN Citizens, ensuring that financial hardship does not prevent anyone from pursuing higher education. Additionally, Stella introduced a back-to-school allowance for each child Citizen, a practical step that helps families meet the costs associated with education. These initiatives position WLMN as a leader in educational support, demonstrating a powerful model for other Indigenous communities and organizations.

Fibre Optic Internet Access for the Community

Bridging the digital divide has been a central priority for Stella. Recognizing that connectivity is essential for education, employment, and access to information, Stella played a key role in implementing fibre optic internet access across the WLMN community. This infrastructure development empowers Citizens to participate in the digital world, providing access to resources that were previously out of reach and supporting the community’s social and economic growth.

Each of these achievements has a unique impact on WLMN, transforming it into a community that not only meets the immediate needs of its Citizens but also empowers them to pursue long-term success and well-being. These initiatives are emblematic of Stella’s commitment to holistic community support, creating opportunities and resources that foster resilience, unity, and pride within WLMN.

Why This Nomination Matters

Stella Lavallee’s nomination for the Stevie Award for Female Thought Leader of the Year is significant not only for her personally but for Willow Lake Métis Nation as a whole. This recognition serves as an acknowledgment of the innovative and compassionate work that Stella has undertaken on behalf of her community. Her ability to lead with vision and empathy sets her apart as a thought leader whose influence extends beyond the borders of WLMN, reaching other Indigenous communities and advocates across Canada.

Her nomination highlights the importance of Métis leadership in setting new standards for governance and community empowerment. It also emphasizes the positive impact that Indigenous women in leadership roles have on their communities and on society at large. As more Indigenous leaders like Stella are recognized on international platforms, the visibility and understanding of Indigenous governance, values, and contributions are elevated.

Looking Toward the Future: A Legacy of Leadership

As we look forward to the Stevie Awards ceremony in New York next month, Willow Lake Métis Nation is filled with pride and excitement. Stella’s work has established a legacy of progressive governance that is rooted in Métis cultural heritage and driven by a forward-thinking vision. Her achievements not only enhance the quality of life for current Citizens but also lay the foundation for future generations to thrive in a supportive, well-resourced community.

Stella’s leadership serves as a blueprint for effective Indigenous governance, demonstrating how a balance of cultural integrity, strategic planning, and innovation can create sustainable growth and progress. Her accomplishments remind us of the importance of nurturing leadership within our communities, fostering a culture of resilience, and supporting initiatives that uplift everyone.

Join Us in Honouring Stella!

As we eagerly await the results of the Stevie Awards, we invite the Willow Lake Métis Nation Citizens, our partners, and supporters to join us in celebrating Stella Lavallee’s remarkable achievements. Her leadership is not only a source of pride for WLMN but also an inspiration to communities and organizations dedicated to creating meaningful, lasting change.

Stay tuned for updates on the Stevie Awards and join us in honouring Stella’s achievements, which continue to set a powerful example for community-driven leadership. Her nomination reminds us that transformative leadership can arise from our own communities, rooted in the values, heritage, and resilience that define us. Stella Lavallee is indeed a thought leader, a community champion, and a proud representative of Willow Lake Métis Nation on the global stage.

Celebrating the 2024 Willow Lake Métis Nation Citizens of the Year

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 23:07:08 GMT

Every year the Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) proudly honours two exceptional individuals as the Citizens of the Year. The Citizen of the Year awards aim to recognize outstanding individual contributions to the Nation and the communities in which they live, work, and play. These awards highlight their commitment to Métis culture, community involvement, and leadership.

This year’s recipients, Mary McKenzie and Deacon VanEe, have truly gone above and beyond in their contributions to the social and cultural life of Willow Lake Métis Nation and beyond in their commitment to hard work, community engagement, and cultural preservation.

Mary McKenzie: Adult Citizen of the Year

Born in Anzac and descended from one of the historical Métis families, Mary is a fountainhead of traditional knowledge, which she has long shared with individuals of diverse backgrounds and ages. Her teachings have played a vital role in the cultural and historical preservation of the Nation, and her ongoing efforts will ensure that this knowledge is transmitted to future generations.

Mary transmits her cultural teachings through art and storytelling. Throughout her life, she has taught numerous children and adults the art forms she learned from her mother, including beading, sewing, painting, carving and weaving. Her storytelling prowess is exemplified in a published collection of narratives from Northern Alberta Métis Elders, where she recounts the tale of “How the Black Poplar Got its Sacred Bard,” which was also shared with students at Bill Woodward School in Anzac.

Mary’s commitment to sharing her culture has significantly contributed to fostering community and understanding, while also preserving important knowledge, and her efforts have profoundly affected all those who have been fortunate to spend time in their company. They have also not gone unnoticed in the wider world. In 2022, she was honoured in 2022 with the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal in recognition of her invaluable contributions to her community.

We are pleased to announce Mary McKenzie as this year’s Adult Citizen of the Year for the Willow Lake Métis Nation.

Deacon VanEe: Youth Citizen of the Year

Deacon VanEe hails from Anzac and traces his Métis ancestry through the two historical lines. Mature beyond his years, he has been actively engaged in junior leadership roles, scouts for a number of years and has participated in the WLMN Youth Summer Students program since its inception in 2021. These experiences have enabled him to cultivate discipline and accountability, which have helped him navigate life’s many challenges.

Deacon takes great pride in his Métis heritage and has actively participated in all aspects of moose hunting, aspiring to one day shoot his own moose. He has a deep love of the outdoors, eagerly seizing any opportunity to hunt, golf, fish, kayak, or ride ATVs. A culinary enthusiast, he particularly enjoys preparing moose burgers, a dish he has mastered, surpassing even his parents’ skills at preparing them.

As a remarkable son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend, it is with great pleasure that we announce Deacon VanEe as this year’s Youth Citizen of the Year for the Willow Lake Métis Nation.

Willow Lake Metis Nation's Proactive Water Quality Monitoring in Partnership with the Oil Sands Monitoring Program

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 22:54:22 GMT

Willow Lake Metis Nation's (WLMN) Sustainability Department has a proactive approach to environmental monitoring, particularly concerning water quality in lakes within the region. The Oil Sands Monitoring Program is assisting WLMN to conduct comprehensive water quality monitoring across Cheecham, Surmont, Sucker, and Kinosis Lakes. Assistance from such programs is crucial for facilitating effective environmental monitoring and management initiatives, particularly in regions where industrial activities like oil sands operations are present. With this support, WLMN can continue their efforts to assess and monitor the health of these lakes, which is essential for understanding any potential impacts from nearby industrial activities and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the environment. It's a great example of collaboration between government initiatives and Indigenous communities working towards common goals of environmental stewardship and protection.

Announcing Willow Lake Métis Nation's Indigenous ESG Pathway Project

Wed, 29 May 2024 19:59:29 GMT

We are thrilled to share an exciting development for Willow Lake Métis Nation. We have been awarded a grant of $480,000 through the Indigenous Natural Resource Partnerships Program to develop our Indigenous Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) Pathway.

This transformative initiative represents a significant step forward in blending Indigenous knowledge, values, and perspectives into a comprehensive framework. Our goal is to enhance environmental responsibility, attract sustainable investments, and foster meaningful Indigenous participation in the natural resource sectors.

Integrating Indigenous Knowledge

The Indigenous ESG Pathway will prioritize the integration of Indigenous knowledge, ensuring that our traditions and values are at the forefront of environmental stewardship. By incorporating these perspectives, we aim to create a framework that not only meets but exceeds conventional environmental standards.

Attracting Sustainable Investments

In today’s rapidly changing economic landscape, sustainability is a key driver of investment decisions. Our ESG Pathway will position Willow Lake Métis Nation as a leader in sustainable development, attracting investments that align with our values and long-term vision for responsible resource management.

Fostering Indigenous Participation

One of the core objectives of this project is to drive meaningful participation of Indigenous communities in Canada’s natural resource sectors. We believe that true sustainability can only be achieved when Indigenous voices are included in decision-making processes. With this in mind, the new initiative will empower our community, ensuring that our contributions are recognized and valued.

Collaboration with Natural Resources Canada

This project is made possible through the support of Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) . Their commitment to fostering sustainable development and supporting Indigenous-led initiatives is a testament to the importance of collaboration in achieving our shared goals.

Looking Ahead

The Indigenous ESG Pathway is not just a framework, but a vision for the future of our community. By blending our rich heritage with modern sustainability practices, we are paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

We invite you to learn more about this transformative project and join us on this journey towards sustainable development. Together, we can create a future where environmental responsibility, economic prosperity, and social equity go hand in hand.

Stay tuned for updates on our progress and the positive impacts this initiative will bring to Willow Lake Métis Nation and beyond.

Congratulations to our Class 3 Drivers License Graduates!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 19:34:28 GMT

Hats off to our four accomplished graduates from Willow Lake Métis Nation's Indigenous Class 3 Commercial Driver’s License Training Program! These individuals demonstrated exceptional diligence and commitment throughout their program, acquiring a wealth of essential knowledge and skills for securing their Class 3 driver's license. This achievement lays the groundwork for meaningful employment prospects. We take pride in announcing that each graduate has not only obtained a valid Class 3 AB drivers license, but they completed the program with honors. We eagerly anticipate witnessing the positive outcomes that this new training will bring to each student. Excitingly, we are gearing up to forge new partnerships, aiming to extend similar valuable opportunities well into 2024!

Pictured above, from left to right: Thomis Jonnason, Trisha Lolacher, Sterling Janvier, and Jean-Paul Surette.

Willow Lake Métis Nation's Citizens of the Year Awards, 2023

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 18:38:23 GMT

At this year’s Métis Fest, two outstanding individuals have been recognized for their remarkable contributions to their community. The Métis Citizen of the Year award aims to recognize the contributions of Citizens to the Nation and the communities they live, work, and play in. Rose Pratt and Bethanie Lavallee, the winners of the award in 2023, embody the spirit of selflessness, community engagement, and cultural preservation.

Rose Pratt - Adult Winner

Hailing from the historic Métis family, the McKenzie's, Rose's selfless nature shines through her numerous contributions to the community. A culinary artist, Rose is known for her skills in making Bannock and intricate beadwork, reflecting her commitment to preserving Métis cultural practices.

Active in various community organizations, Rose has been a driving force behind essential initiatives. She played a pivotal role in advocating for the construction of a school and daycare in Anzac. Her extensive involvement as a board member in organizations like FCSS, Willow Lake Community Association, and Camp Yogi showcases her dedication to the overall well-being of her community.

Rose also actively engages with the youth through programs like the summer student initiative. By providing opportunities for youth to contribute to the community, Rose becomes a positive role model, steering them toward a path of personal and community development.

Family-oriented and deeply connected to her roots, Rose Pratt's involvement in community events like Winterfest, Anzac Daze, and the Alberta Winter Games reflects her commitment to the betterment of Anzac. Whether it's sharing her secret apple pie recipe or partaking in family picnics, Rose's influence resonates throughout the community.

Bethanie Lavallee - Youth Winner

Bethanie was born and raised in Anzac and stems from the two historical Métis lines. Her involvement in various community events, from Anzac Daze to Christmas in Anzac and the Halloween Boo Bash, showcases her commitment to making a positive impact. Her participation in figure skating, Irish dancing, pageants, and volleyball not only highlights her diverse talents but also embodies the cultural vibrancy of Anzac.

A regular participant in the Willow Lake Métis Nation's Youth Summer Program for the past three years, Bethanie actively invests her time in preserving and promoting Métis traditions. Beyond community engagements, her hobbies include cooking, snowboarding, and spending quality time with her family, showcasing a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

Bethanie’s kind heart and willingness to help others does not go unnoticed. She’s a proud sister and aunty to her loved ones. Her dedication, commitment, willingness to step out of her comfort zone and try and her best are why she has been selected for this award.

In celebrating the achievements of Rose Pratt and Bethanie Lavallee, the Métis Citizen of the Year award recognizes not only their individual contributions but also the collective strength of the Willow Lake Métis Nation. Through their diverse efforts, Rose and Bethanie exemplify the spirit of unity, cultural preservation, and community engagement that defines the essence of the Nation.

Announcing Two New Beneficial Initiatives for Citizens

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 23:09:32 GMT

Citizen Access to Wifi & Wills Support

The Willow Lake Métis Nation has recently undertaken two significant initiatives to enhance the well-being and connectivity of its Citizens near Anzac, Alberta, and surrounding areas.

In an effort to bridge the digital divide and improve internet accessibility for its Citizens, Willow Lake Métis Nation has launched a transformative Fibre Optic initiative. This initiative focuses on transitioning the community away from outdated dial-up internet services and providing access to high-speed Wi-Fi with speeds significantly exceeding those of dial-up. What sets this initiative apart is that the Nation is taking proactive steps to ensure Citizens can enjoy this essential service without financial barriers. Citizens are now able to access Wi-Fi at no cost, resulting in approximately $1200 in annual savings for each Citizen. The Nation has assumed responsibility for covering the bill, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring equitable access to essential resources in the digital age.

This initiative not only promotes digital inclusion but also recognizes the importance of affordable, high-speed internet in today's world, where connectivity is vital for education, work, communication, and various other aspects of daily life. By eliminating the financial burden of internet expenses, the Willow Lake Métis Nation is ensuring that Citizens can fully participate in the digital society, fostering empowerment and opportunities for all.

In addition to their digital connectivity efforts, Willow Lake Métis Nation is also dedicated to safeguarding the future well-being of its community members through their Wills Support Initiative. Recognizing the importance of estate planning and ensuring that individuals have their affairs in order, this initiative aims to assist people in creating legally binding wills. To further reduce potential barriers, the Nation is covering the costs associated with the creation of these wills.

This initiative is crucial in providing peace of mind to community members by helping them ensure their assets and wishes are protected and honored. By alleviating the financial burden of creating a will, the Nation is promoting responsible estate planning within their community, emphasizing the importance of preparing for the future.

Overall, these recent initiatives by the Willow Lake Métis Nation underscore the commitment to enhancing the quality of life and opportunities for Citizens. By tackling costly issues related to digital connectivity and estate planning, they are working towards a stronger, more resilient community that can thrive in the modern age while preserving its cultural heritage and values.

Willow Lake Métis Nation Welcomes CNOOC as Diamond Sponsor for Métis Fest 2023

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 21:46:06 GMT

We would like to express our sincere gratitude for the support of CNOOC at this year's Métis Fest. It is thanks to wonderful sponsors like CNOOC that we are able to host exceptional events for our Citizens and members of the community.

"At CNOOC, how we work is as important as the results we deliver. We’re committed to partnering with community members and other stakeholders in the areas where we operate. We build long-term trust by sharing information, consulting with stakeholders about business decisions and working collaboratively to understand their needs and expectations. Anticipating and managing the impacts our operations can have on our neighbouring communities and the broader society is at the heart of our approach to social responsibility. Our ultimate goal is to generate a net benefit for society as we pursue our vision: to deliver sustainable energy for all."

To learn more about Métis Fest 2023, check out the event details.

Willow Lake Métis Nation Welcomes New Senior Manager of Government and Industry Relations, Matthew Michetti

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 15:52:29 GMT

Matthew comes to the Nation with a wealth of experience in consultation, project development, community relations and we look forward to his contribution to our growing team. In addition to his regulatory and Government relations role, Matthew is excited to serve on several of the projects teams dedicated to enhancing sustainability and promoting the culture here at Willow Lake.

Many members of the Nation will remember Matthew from his time in the region and work on previous projects. We are very happy to have Matthew on our team as he takes on this important role with our Nation.

Introducing the New Willow Lake Métis Group Website: Uniting Communities and Building Partnerships

j.vanee@wlmn.ca (Jessica Vanee) — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 19:19:33 GMT

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the brand-new Willow Lake Métis Group website . Willow Lake Métis Group, renowned for their exceptional commitment to community development and fostering partnerships, has taken a significant step forward with their online presence. The new website will connect the community, showcase their critical work, and build valuable collaborations.

One of the primary goals of the new website is to facilitate partnership building, as Willow Lake Métis Group recognizes the immense value of collaboration. The Group is known for its dedication to critical work in community development, education, and cultural preservation. Furthermore, the website will also serve as a resource for the community, providing relevant news and information about the Group’s growth and activities.

In March, Andy Harnett was appointed as CEO of Willow Lake Métis Group. Harnett's role at the Group has been vital in establishing strong partnerships with industry and enhancing the Group's service delivery. With Harnett as CEO and Michael Robert's recent appointment as CFO , the Group is well-prepared for growth. Harnett brings 25+ years of diverse experience in oil and gas, specializing in mechanical services, project management, and safety systems. He holds top certifications in gas and steam fitting from the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology.

Willow Lake Métis Group also recently announced their Board of Directors , including Catherine Koch, Dan Forigo, Mike Daley, Saad Rahali, and Conor Chell. This esteemed team has a wealth of experience in a variety of industries that will serve the Group well.

We invite you to visit willowlakemetisgroup.ca and experience the new website for yourself. Explore the insightful content, discover the remarkable achievements, and learn more about the Willow Lake Métis Group's ongoing commitment to making a difference in the Nation.

Celebrating Outstanding Contributions: Nominate the Métis of the Year!

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 18:21:18 GMT

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Métis of the Year award, a heartfelt initiative aimed at celebrating and honoring the exceptional individuals who have made extraordinary impacts on our Nation.

The Métis of the Year award seeks to highlight the incredible achievements, dedication, and resilience of WLMN citizenswho have gone above and beyond to make a lasting difference. We believe that their Métis history and the profound impact they have had on our community should be acknowledged and celebrated.

This award is open for nominations, and we encourage you to participate in this opportunity to recognize someone who has demonstrated outstanding commitment and contributed significantly to the betterment of our community. Whether it's through their tireless advocacy, transformative projects, leadership, or fostering community cohesion, we want to honor those who have contributed meaningfully to our Nation.

To nominate an individual for the Métis of the Year award, simply download the nomination form here . The form provides a comprehensive overview of the nomination process and the criteria to consider when selecting a deserving candidate. We encourage you to include details about their Métis history and how their efforts have positively impacted the community.

Please submit your nomination by August 1, 2023.

Willow Lake Métis Nation's Speech on Toxic Tailings Pond Leaks

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 15:08:51 GMT

Representatives from Willow Lake Métis Nation travelled to Ottawa to describe the impacts of the tailings pond leaks on the Nation to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development. New VP and Indigenous Guardian, Jason McKenzie, and Sustainability Manager, Destiny Martin, delivered an account of these effects and recommendations to the committee on how Government and industry should proceed.

See Destiny's full speech to the Standing Committee below:

Willow Lake Métis Nation Background

Willow Lake Métis Nation represents the Section 35 rights of approximately 90 Citizens. The Nation’s administrative centre is located at Anzac, Alberta, just south of Fort McMurray. The Nation emerged during the fur trade era between the Athabasca and Clearwater rivers (in what is now Alberta) and Lac La Loche (in Saskatchewan). Historically, Willow Lake was connected through kinship and economic ties to Fort Chipewyan and Lake Athabasca to the north, and to Lac La Biche to the south—and these connections continue today.

Willow Lake Métis Nation Citizens hunt, fish, trap, and collect berries and medicines on lands used by their ancestors. These lands include traplines like Vice President McKenzie’s, which has been in his family for several generations. Harvested resources are shared to provide for families and the community, and most Citizens continue to consume traditional foods and use traditional medicines. Willow Lake Métis

Nation, like other Nations in the oil sands region, have experienced and continue to experience extensive impacts of oil and gas, forestry, and other developments.

Toxic Leak of Tailings Ponds

Willow Lake Metis Nation was first notified regarding the tailings ponds leaks at the Imperial Oil, Kearl Lake site by email from the Alberta Energy Regulator on February 7, 2023. We then met with AER staff on March 8, 2023, to receive an update. Imperial Oil also contacted us by email on March 8, 2023, with a link to the company’s updates on the Environmental Protection Order. Willow Lake Métis Nation provided a response letter to Imperial Oil on March 17, 2023, outlining the Nation’s concerns and information requests. As of April 13, we have not received a response from Imperial Oil. This does not align with statements on Imperial’s website that indicate the company is engaging with affected Indigenous communities.

Willow Lake Métis Nation Citizens harvest in areas upstream and downstream of the Kearl site and are very concerned about impacts of the leaks on water and other aquatic resources, plants, and wildlife. Willow Lake Métis Nation continues to be connected to the other Nations, in this region, and engage in shared harvesting activities and the sharing of traditional foods and medicines. Certainty regarding the safety of traditionally harvested foods is critical to support land use, the sharing of harvested resources, and the continuation of rights and culture. Ongoing clarification and updates regarding the impacts of these spills on the environment and harvested plant and animal resources is required to support future land use. The leaks and the delayed notifications are deeply concerning to Willow Lake Métis Nation.

Willow Lake Métis Nation is in a vulnerable position right now as we are waiting for recognition of the Nation’s Section 35 rights through Alberta’s credible assertion process, and experiences inconsistent consultation from government and industry. The leaks highlight the risk for any Indigenous Nation that incidents such as these can go unreported, but this risk is especially high for Nations in Willow Lake’s position.

It is apparent that Imperial Oil and the AER shared the responsibility for communicating these incidents much sooner. While we appreciate that the AER contacted the Nation, met with us in March, and continue to update us, this incident has affected the Nation’s ability to trust both industry and the AER. Willow Lake Métis Nation is interested in meaningful solutions that will re-establish that trust through co-operation, co-management and most importantly co-reclamation to ensure truly sustainable oil sands operations.

Willow Lake Métis Nation desires to find ways to address the gaps highlighted by these incidents. Immediate solutions include discussions with Imperial to ensure Nation involvement in incident response and monitoring, as well as further discussions with the AER to ensure Willow Lake receives timely notification regarding incidents within the Nation’s territory. Willow Lake also recommends a human health assessment to ensure there is no risk from the leaks to traditionally harvested resources including water, plants, and animals. More broadly, these incidents have emphasized cumulative impacts to Indigenous rights in the oil sands region. Deeper understanding of those impacts needs to be achieved through a regional assessment of the oil sands, including cumulative impacts, and impacts to Section 35 rights.

On behalf of Willow Lake Métis Nation and its Citizens, I would like to thank you for your time and consideration of our concerns. We sincerely appreciate the invitation to present to the Standing Committee today.

Willow Lake Métis Nation elects new Vice President, Jason McKenzie

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 17:38:14 GMT

Jason McKenzie is Willow Lake Métis Nation's new Vice President. Having previously sat on Willow Lake’s board as VP, he is familiar with the responsibilities for this role and will serve the Nation well.

Jason was born and raised in Anzac and his roots stem from one of the two historical Métis families of Willow Lake. He is a proud father, grandfather and partner. Jason currently works for Syncrude as a Process Operator and is also an entrepreneur, owning his own tire company.

Jason is a proud Métis Citizen of Willow Lake Métis Nation. He is a traditional lan d user and has also been selected as WLMN’s Indigenous Guardian doing environmental monitoring and ensuring the preservation of the lands.

Jason’s knowledge both in the industry and on the land make him an excellent candidate for Vice President. We are confident that his abilities will help continue to guide our Nation to future growth, development, and success.

Willow Lake Métis Nation Appoints Michael Robert as CFO

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 21:09:29 GMT

Michael has over 20 years of experience in finance and joined both Willow Lake Métis Nation and Willow Lake Métis Group last year as Controller.

REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF WOOD BUFFALO, AB, CANADA, February 28, 2023 - Willow Lake Métis Nation is proud to announce the appointment of Michael Robert as Chief Financial Officer. Michael has worked with both Willow Lake Métis Nation and Willow Lake Métis Group since last year, when he was hired as Controller, and will continue to do so as CFO.

"Working with Willow Lake Métis Group for the past year has been an absolute pleasure full of positivity and growth, and I’m thrilled to accept this new role as CFO.” — Michael Robert

With over 20 years of experience in the business world specializing in finance, Michael has served as Vice President of Finance, Director of Corporate Strategy and Finance, CFO, Controller, and Finance Specialist in previous roles. His experience largely comes from the oil and gas sector, including engineering, pipelines, services, and construction as well as in the banking and personal finance sectors. Michael’s vast experience has assisted him in turning around companies while building a strong base for successful growth in others.

Michael completed a Masters of Global Management from Royal Roads University in August 2022, his second master’s degree after completing his MBA in 2013. His primary focus is leadership and supporting teams to reach their full potential while enjoying the journey along the way. Michael received a Manager of the Year while working in Japan for a large nationwide organization. In a previous role, Michael was also awarded for helping to create the most psychologically friendly medium-sized company in Alberta.

“Working with Willow Lake Métis Group for the past year has been an absolute pleasure full of positivity and growth, and I’m thrilled to accept this new role as CFO,” said Michael. “As Controller, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside a team of dedicated professionals and I look forward to collaborating with them in my new capacity to achieve our shared goals and drive growth and success for our organization and the entire Willow Lake community."

“We are thrilled to welcome Michael to the role of CFO,” said Stella Lavallee, President of Willow Lake Métis Nation. “With a proven track record of success as Controller and a deep understanding of Willow Lake’s financial landscape, we are confident in his ability to lead our financial strategy and deliver long-term growth and results for the community.”

Outside of work, Michael is highly active in the local community. Originally from Nanaimo, BC, Michael spent over 18 years in Calgary following a three-year adventure in Japan. When he’s not working, Michael can be found volunteering with local volunteer clubs, coaching kids’ sports, or playing sports himself.

About Willow Lake Métis Group
The Willow Lake Métis Group exists to ensure our community has an opportunity to be industry leaders that contribute to our local economy and the future sustainability of our community. We are proud to have established strong relationships with industry partners that allow us to become your strategic Indigenous industry partner. Working with each of the industry partners allows us to provide full-service expertise for large-scale projects. We can handle a multitude of services related to maintenance, turnaround, and servicing of your facility. We are continuing to work towards building capacity and strengthening our mandate. Willow Lake Métis Group looks forward to working with the major industry players in our region in Northern Alberta to provide service and partnership at a new standard.

For more information, visit: www.willowlakemetisgroup.ca

Media contact for WLMG

Peter Pilarski, Vice President

CIPR Communications

403-462-1160

Career Fair

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 22:42:35 GMT

Save the date for the Willow Lake Métis Nation Education and Career Fair on; March, 23 in Anzac, Alberta.

Hiring Employers
Inspiring Speakers
Educational Speakers
Job & Career
Workshops
Career Development

For early registration and sponsorship opportunities please contact r.davey@wlmn.ca.

Security Guard Training Program

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 21:49:37 GMT

Security Guard Training Program

Have you ever considered a career as a security guard? WLMG is now accepting applications for a 1 week program which includes:

1 week Alberta Security Service Worker Training
Alberta Security Service Worker License
CSTS 2020 Certificate
First Aid and CRP Certificate
Knowledge and Skills
Project Coordinator support
Potential full time employment opportunities

Applicants Must:

Be 18 years and older
Posses a class 5 drivers license
Be prepared to commit to attend scheduled classes and complete all assignments
Ready, willing, and able to participate in the program.

Please complete the application form fully, then return it to r.davey@wlmn.ca for review. All applications will receive a response by February 10, 2023.

Leadership Announcement

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 19:06:05 GMT

The Willow Lake Métis Nation is formally announcing the resignation of CEO, Justin Bourque effective January 10, 2023. Justin will also be stepping down from his director and officer positions on the Willow Lake Métis Nation as well as the Willow Lake Métis Nation Group of Companies.

While the news may be unexpected it has been with great reflection by all parties involved. This announcement is a natural progression for Justin as well as the Willow Lake Métis Nation. Both, separately and together, have had a momentous year that will catalyze tremendous opportunity and growth.

Justin was an important part of the Willow Lake Métis Nation, with his strong leadership and dedication towards our vision as a Nation. As we move forward into 2023, we are fortunate that we had Justin’s passion to help guide us this far and are confident that we will continue to progress the future for our Nation.

Justin will continue to be a champion in advocating for Métis rights and progression. We will no doubt be interfacing with him and interacting as we both remain strong voices in the energy industry and in Alberta government relations.

Our intention is to stay communicative throughout the process as we fill the capacity and positions this announcement leaves.

All correspondence that would have been directed to Justin should be forwarded directly to Stella Lavallee, President of the Willow Lake Métis Nation.

Willow Lake Métis Nation Citizens Celebrated as Recipients of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medals

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 13:22:05 GMT

Willow Lake Métis Nation Citizens Celebrated as Recipients of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medals

Five citizens of the Willow Lake Métis Nation will be celebrated as recipients of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal recognizing their significant contributions to Alberta. The Platinum Jubilee Medal program is continuing as planned despite the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Willow Lake Métis Nation, Alberta, Dec 15, 2022 – The Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) will be celebrating the invaluable contribution of five Nation citizens as they are honoured as recipients of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal recognizing their significant contributions to Alberta.

WLMN citizens receiving this recognition include:

Mary McKenzie – Elder

Mary McKenzie is a descendent from one of the historical Métis families. Born and raised in Anzac, Mary has always lived a traditional lifestyle and continues to stay true to her Métis roots.

Mary has shared a wealth of knowledge as an elder of Willow Lake Métis Nation. Her teachings have helped preserve the Nation’s culture and history, and her continued support will help guide it into the future.

Justin Bourque

As Vice President and CEO of Willow Lake Métis Nation Justin has worked to restructure an organization that is accountable, driven for community prosperity, and culturally grounded while protecting and enhancing the Nation’s rights and strengthening relations with government and Indigenous groups.

Joyce Quintal

A long-time resident of Anzac, Joyce is both board treasurer and senior accounting clerk for Willow Lake Métis Nation. She works hard to secure the Nation’s success by being collaborative, transparent, building capacity, and focusing on preserving Métis culture.

Jessica VanEe

Jessica VanEe serves the Nation as board secretary. Born and raised in Anzac, she is a proud advocate for her community. As both a board member and office manager, she strives to affect positive change for all citizens in the Nation. She also provides invaluable support to Willow Lake Métis Group.

Feather Bourque Jenner

Feather has lived in the community since she was born and has dedicated her life to serving it. She joined the Willow Lake Métis Nation board at the age of 16 and remains on it today. Being a descendent of Residential School survivors and trappers is what drives her to serve her Nation.

7,000 Albertans will receive the medal as a symbolic recognition of the Her Majesty’s 70th anniversary and based on the number of Albertans recognized in the 2005 Alberta Centennial Medal and the 2012 Diamond Jubilee Medal Program.

“It is a great honour for citizens of our Nation to be included in this process and to have our contributions recognized,” said Willow Lake Métis Nation’s President and Senior Manager, External Relations and Community Relations, Stella Lavallee. Adding, “I am especially pleased to see Mary McKenzie, one of our WLMN elders being recognized. Mary’s steadfast commitment to preserving and sharing our culture is essential to our success as a nation and to the future of Alberta.”

CIPR Communications and Willow Lake Métis Nation Win Two 2022 WebAwards

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 15:58:46 GMT

The prestigious awards were in the Government Standard of Excellence and Non-Profit Standard of Excellence Categories.

Willow Lake Métis Nation and The Resilience Institute Sign MOU to Partner on Climate Resilience

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 17:05:23 GMT

The focus of the agreement is to develop a transdisciplinary approach to revitalizing, developing, and monitoring the Nation's recently acquired land in Fort McMurray.

Anzac, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - June 7, 2022) - Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), an Anzac, Alberta-based Métis community, and the Resilience Institute (TRI), a national education and research institute, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU). The formal partnership is directly related to WLMN's land acquisition and Sohkastwâwin initiative .

WLMN and TRI plan to take a transdisciplinary approach to revitalizing, developing, and monitoring the approximately 205 acres of land WLMN recently acquired, which has been highly impacted by industry activity. TRI is a charitable organization that partners with local and Indigenous Peoples, academia, and industry on multi-pronged initiatives to build resilience to current and future impacts of climate change.

"Sohkastwâwin is a Cree term for 'the act of being resilient' and it is the future for our people," says Justin Bourque, CEO of WLMN. "Sohkastwâwin is an ecosystem of food, culture, and economy that will provide our citizens the ability to maintain resilience in an ever-changing future on climate change and bolster our ability to adapt. We are grateful for the opportunity to work with the Resilience Institute on this important initiative."

" This initiative exemplifies the meaning of doing business differently in contrast to 'business as usual' in the context of climate change and the impacts it is unleashing on communities," says TRI's Founder and President, Laura S. Lynes. "By taking a transdisciplinary approach to Sohkastwâwin we bring together the wisdom of local and traditional knowledge holders with the best available science to meet the community's objectives. We're really excited about this journey."

The partnership was bolstered by a $30,000 community investment by Keyera Corp. ("Keyera") (TSX: KEY). The generous donation will be used to fund the crucial cultural and scientific research to support TRI's work and WLMN's vision, including creating holistic land development and monitoring plans for the Nation. Next steps include assessing the current landscape and gaining an understanding of the proposed impacts of their plans for the land from a climate lens. The University of Saskatchewan has been engaged to undertake the groundwork.

"Keyera is pleased to support the future development and vision for this land through our $30,000 donation and wish Willow Lake Metis Nation great success as they step forward in this journey," says Dean Setoguchi, Keyera President & Chief Executive Officer. "At Keyera, we strongly believe in the power of collaboration and seek partnerships with those who have likeminded goals, such as sustainability and community resiliency. That's why we're honoured to support the Sohkastwâwin initiative and look forward to continued growth of our relationship with Willow Lake Metis Nation."

Sohkastwâwin will accomplish many goals, including economic benefit - not only for the Nation, but the whole community. The cultural space will provide traditional food, medicine, material, and reclamation sources for WLMN citizens and the entire region while allowing them to share their traditional ways with others to promote their Métis culture. Above all else, Sohkastwâwin will reconnect WLMN with the bison: a culturally important keystone animal.

The creation of this sustainable resource will prepare the Nation, and future generations of WLMN citizens, to handle an environment and economy impacted by climate change. WLMN plans to start with 20 heads and will work with its industry partners to increase the herd over time. A new partnership will then form: one between the WLMN and the bison.

"The Métis and bison share a powerful historical connection," continues Bourque. "By capitalizing on our mutual resilience, with the TRI's support, we will work together to reclaim our land."

Willow Lake Métis Nation Hosts Celebration of Historic Métis Milestone

admin@ciprcommunications.com (Christina Pilarski) — Fri, 03 Jun 2022 19:20:19 GMT

The festivities honoured the resilience of the Métis people and the importance of partnerships.

ANZAC, AB, June 3, 2022 – In celebration of its newly acquired land, Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), an Anzac, Alberta-based Métis community, hosted a celebration on its land today to celebrate the historic Métis milestone and thank the stakeholders who were pivotal in its success.

The approximately 205 acres of land will provide Willow Lake citizens with food, power, and cultural and social security. Sohkastwâwin will feature an eco-bison ranch and local food source, a garden, community culture centre, and Métis housing. The Nation also has plans for cultural education programming, local power generation, climate resilience design, net zero emissions, disaster mitigation, and tourism.

“Today is a celebration of a historic milestone for Métis peoples, and Willow Lake Métis Nation is incredibly proud to be leading the charge,” says Stella Lavallee, President of WLMN. “Sohkastwâwin, Cree for ‘the act of being resilient,’ is so much more than land. It is a tangible representation of our Nation’s resilience and our strong commitment to mitigate climate change.”

In September 2021, WLMN, Suncor, and seven other Indigenous communities in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo announced Astisiy Limited Partnership and its resulting 15 per cent ownership of the Northern Courier Pipeline. WLMN used the revenue to acquire approximately 205 acres on the former Platt Farm land, located at Site 403, Mod 8, Comp 5, RR 2, Fort McMurray, AB T9H 5S1.

“Bison and the Métis are intricately connected, and both share a powerful historical connection to all living things,” says Justin Bourque, CEO of WLMN. “Revitalizing our connection with the bison will be a key component in our work to revitalize our land and lay the foundation for our future.”

Stakeholders and supporters from across the country were invited to the unveiling. Their inclusion underpins the importance of collaborative partnerships and underscores that while WLMN is and always has been self-reliant, relationships are the backbone of the success they celebrate today.

“Sohkastwâwin is proof that more can be accomplished together than on your own,” continues Bourque. “Our Nation’s success is not built by our achievements, but by the relationships and partnerships we have formed. These connections have bolstered our confidence to continue to actively maintain our right to self-governance. The Willow Lake Métis always have been – and always will be – resilient peoples.” peter@ciprcommunications.com

Event Photo Gallery

Photographer: Nicholas Vardy

Willow Lake Métis Nation Makes Historic Land Purchase Thanks to Suncor Partnership

admin@ciprcommunications.com (Christina Pilarski) — Tue, 31 May 2022 15:27:10 GMT

The purchase is part of an initiative called "Sohkastwâwin," which is a Cree term meaning "the act of being resilient."

Anzac, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2022) - Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), a Métis community whose members primarily reside in Anzac, Alberta, has purchased land in Anzac to reset its ecosystem and provide their community a permanent home. The land acquisition was made possible thanks to the Astisiy partnership agreement with Suncor Energy signed last year.

The Nation has purchased approximately 205 acres of land. Sohkastwâwin, which includes an eco-bison ranch and local food source, community culture centre, Métis housing, and local power generation, will provide a sustainable future for WLMN. Sohkastwâwin is the community's way of taking climate action and ensuring a resilient Nation.

"We are no longer a landless Métis community," says Justin Bourque, CEO of WLMN. "Sohkastwâwin reinforces our self-governance model and the actions we take now to develop resilience will change the course of our Nation's future."

Last September, Willow Lake Métis Nation, Suncor, and seven other Indigenous communities in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo announced a historic partnership. The Astisiy Limited Partnership acquired all of TC Energy's equity interest in the Northern Courier Pipeline resulting in 15 per cent ownership of the pipeline. As a result of revenue generated from that partnership, the Willow Lake Métis Nation was able to acquire this land. Sohkastwâwin is the first publicly announced meaningful investment related to Astisiy.

"On behalf of Suncor, I want to congratulate the Willow Lake Métis Nation on this historic announcement," says Peter Zebedee, Suncor's executive vice president, Mining and Upgrading. "Together with eight communities, we formed Astisiy to help provide long-term, stable revenues for all of the communities involved. Today's land purchase serves as an example of the economic reconciliation made possible through increased Indigenous involvement in energy projects."

In collaboration with the Resilience Institute, WLMN plans to take a transdisciplinary approach to revitalizing, developing, and monitoring the land, which has been highly impacted by industry activity. The Resilience Institute is a charitable organization dedicated to climate change research and education that partners with local and Indigenous Peoples. One of the first goals is to establish an ecologically healthy landscape, which includes reconnecting the historic relationship between bison and the land.

"Bison, like the Métis peoples, are resilient," says Bourque. The Métis helped shape Canada and the bison helped shape our ecosystem. Our Nation will work in tandem with the bison to reclaim our land."

A celebration will be held on Friday, June 3, on the newly acquired land in recognition of this historic Métis milestone.

"As a result of Astisiy, WLMN has an unprecedented opportunity," continues Bourque. "Sohkastwâwin will expand our self-sufficiency for generations to come by creating an economy for our peoples - on our own land."

Willow Lake Métis Nation to work with Axxcelus Capital Advisory

admin@ciprcommunications.com (Christina Pilarski) — Thu, 05 May 2022 15:22:50 GMT

Willow Lake Métis Nation to work with Axxcelus Capital Advisory

Partnership to build generational wealth opportunities for Willow Lake Métis Nation in major asset ownership

May 5, 2022 (Treaty No. 8 Territory) – Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) has selected Axxcelus Capital Advisory as its exclusive financial advisor to source, evaluate, structure, and finance major asset opportunities on behalf of the community.

Willow Lake Métis Nation’s partnership with Axxcelus is a supportive, collaborative relationship based on shared values. WLMN is crystallizing opportunities to build a prosperous future of a self-governing Nation, providing opportunity for employment, generational capacity, and land to restore historical ecosystems.

“We’re here today providing generational opportunities and a sustainable future for our community through our engagement with Axxcelus,” explains Justin Bourque, CEO of Willow Lake Métis Nation. “Axxcelus expands our capacity to understand and participate in major asset ownership for our community with a focus on generational wealth. We share a clear alignment of values and beliefs – Axxcelus speaks our language.”

“Successful relationships can only be built on the pillars of trust and alignment of values. We deeply believe in the vision of WLMN and are thrilled to assist them along this journey,” says Paul Poscente, CEO of Axxcelus Capital Advisory. “Combining their vision and our expertise, we translate these values into opportunities that help deliver meaningful results for the community.”

The partnership is already working towards several projects, including community-building and land purchases.

Media Contact:

Jill McKenzie

Communications Manager

902 830 0814

jill@pipikwanpehtakwan.co

About Axxcelus Capital Advisory Partners:

Axxcelus Capital Advisory is a capital and advisory firm that facilitates ownership in major assets for Indigenous communities. Assets are the building blocks of wealth, a ladder out of poverty and inequity, and a necessary tenet of the desire for self-determination. The Axxcelus approach is rooted in an understanding of the need for an unconventional ran ge of options based on shared values and the need for meaningful community engagement to create the intergenerational impacts only possible through ownership efforts made today.

More information on Axxcelus Capital Advisory Partners found here www.axxcelus.ca

Willow Lake Métis Nation Welcomes Michael Robert

admin@ciprcommunications.com (Christina Pilarski) — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 20:33:58 GMT

Willow Lake Métis Nation CEO Comments on 2022 Alberta Budget

admin@ciprcommunications.com (Christina Pilarski) — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 19:58:42 GMT

Pleased to see yesterday's budget. Looks like a promising horizon for Alberta - and for Indigenous people within it! Willow Lake Métis Nation CEO Justin Bourque is pleased to see yesterday's budget. Looks like a promising horizon for Alberta - and for Indigenous people within it! This shows a promising horizon for Alberta and the Indigenous people in the province. Willow Lake Métis Nation looks forward to a continued strong relationship with the UCP Government.

Willow Lake Métis Nation - Indigenous Guardian (Casual)

admin@ciprcommunications.com (Christina Pilarski) — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 17:20:00 GMT

Indigenous Guardian

Casual, as and when required

Anzac, AB

Job Description and Purpose

The Willow Lake Métis Nation Indigenous Guardian program is guided by the WLMN Steering Committee, which is directed by Willow Lake Métis Nation. Reporting to the Sustainability Lead, this position plays an important role in asserting our rights and title, and will monitor the freshwater, terrestrial and cultural resources within the WLMN traditional territory.

Specifically, the WLMN Indigenous Guardian will monitor environmental and cultural resources and the impacts of resource development; accurately collect monitoring data; build and maintain productive relationships with the WLMN Citizens and the community; and report their activities to the Sustainability Department at Willow Lake Métis Nation.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Conduct site visits throughout WLMN traditional territory.
Engage with WLMN Citizens, and the community, to build a positive working relationship.
Collect and record data, as required, related to the health of WLMN ecological and cultural values and the impacts of resource development.
Work with WLMN Citizens to document cultural sites and monitor impacts.
Build and maintain productive relationships with industry partners and provincial/federal agency staff.
Educate WLMN Citizens about WLMN issues and Indigenous Guardian activities.
Support WLMN communications and events by participating in open houses, submitting articles for community newsletter, and contributing photos for social media marketing.
Work with school(s) to raise awareness with the youth about the Indigenous Guardian program and activities.

Click below for full job description.

Standing up for Métis economic interests

admin@ciprcommunications.com (Christina Pilarski) — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 21:37:39 GMT

Two Métis organizations will legally challenge federal legislation with funding from Alberta’s Indigenous Litigation Fund.

Fort McKay Métis Nation and Willow Lake Métis Nation will receive more than $372,000 through the Indigenous Litigation Fund to begin a constitutional challenge of the Oil Tanker Moratorium Act.

“Alberta’s government stands with Fort McKay and Willow Lake Métis Nations in defending their vital economic interests and protecting their ability to develop their resources. Indigenous communities already face more barriers to economic security than other communities in Alberta, and this litigation fund grant helps those communities fight back. We are committed to economic reconciliation and together we can stand up against discriminatory federal legislation and be true partners in prosperity.”

Jason Kenney, Premier

“The Oil Tanker Moratorium Act makes it harder for First Nations and Métis people to set up long-term economic development projects. The Indigenous Litigation Fund is one more way Alberta’s government is working with Indigenous communities to support economic decisions, leading to a better future for generations to come.”

Rick Wilson, Minister of Indigenous Relations

The Indigenous Litigation Fund backs Indigenous-led legal actions challenging federal legislation that hinders major energy projects in Alberta. It also presents a new opportunity for provincial and Indigenous governments to strengthen relationships.

“Métis people in Alberta want to be active participants in responsible natural resource development for the benefit of our communities and all Albertans. We want to remove legislation that we believe affects our rights and slows the delivery of resources to overseas markets.”

Justin Bourque, Vice-President and CEO, Willow Lake Métis Nation

“The tanker ban prevents Indigenous people from playing a role in the development of major energy projects and the development of our communities. We are pushing for fair access to markets. This fund may help us open the door wider for resource development for Métis people and other Albertans.”

Ron Quintal, President, Fort McKay Métis Nation

The Oil Tanker Moratorium Act stops oil tankers carrying crude and persistent oils, such as fuel oils and lubricating oils, from stopping, loading or unloading at ports or marine installations in northern British Columbia, making it harder for Alberta to get oil to overseas markets.

Quick facts

This is the second Indigenous Litigation Fund grant.
The first grant was provided to the Woodland Cree First Nation for legal action against Bill C-69, which changed how major infrastructure projects are reviewed and approved in Canada, including the environmental assessment process.

Related information

Indigenous Litigation Fund

Photo Gallery

Métis Festival 2021

caron@ciprcommunications.com (Caron Anderson) — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 15:54:23 GMT

We were thrilled to invite the community to our first annual Métis Festival on September 11, 2021. Thank you to all the community members and stakeholders that took time to come and celebrate Métis heritage and culture with the Willow Lake Métis nation team.

We spent time at the Anzac Recreation Centre jigging, singing, and fiddling. We enjoyed the traditional dress and moose calling competition (congratulations to our winners!) and we had a fantastic crib and horseshoe tournament.

Rockin Fiddles was the perfect entertainment for the day and kept our spirits high. We're looking forward to next year!

Willow Lake Métis Nation Invests in the Northern Courier Pipeline with Suncor and Seven Other Indigenous Communities in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo

caron@ciprcommunications.com (Caron Anderson) — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 11:50:46 GMT

The historic partnership includes three First Nations and five Métis communities that will own 15 per cent of the pipeline, standing to benefit from long-term, stable revenues for their communities.

REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF WOOD BUFFALO, AB, Sept. 16, 2021 /CNW/ - Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) will invest in the Northern Courier Pipeline alongside Suncor and seven other Indigenous communities in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) to acquire all of TC Energy's equity interest in the Northern Courier Pipeline. Together with Suncor, this historic partnership includes three First Nations and five Métis communities that will own 15 per cent of the pipeline, standing to benefit from long-term, stable revenues for their communities.

Suncor has exercised its option to purchase TC Energy's remaining equity interest in Northern Courier Pipeline Limited Partnership. The purchase will be completed by Astisiy Limited Partnership and Suncor will become operator of the pipeline assets. The Astisiy partners will benefit from revenues generated through competitive tolls from long-term transportation and terminalling services agreements supporting the pipeline, regardless of the price of crude.

The Astisiy Limited Partnership will be comprised of WLMN, Suncor, Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, Chipewyan Prairie First Nation, Conklin Métis Local 193, Fort Chipewyan Métis Local #125, Fort McKay Métis Nation, McMurray Métis, and the Fort McMurray #468 First Nation.

"WLMN are thrilled to partner with our Indigenous brothers and sisters in the Wood Buffalo Region to build long-term prosperity for our community and future generations" said Willow Lake Métis Nation CEO, Justin Bourque. Adding, "WLMN is committed to making bold decisions and to doing things differently, ensuring the best future possible for our community and our families".

The Northern Courier Pipeline and associated storage facilities are located in the RMWB, connecting the Fort Hills asset to the East Tank Farm (ETF). The asset consists of two 90 kilometre pipelines that transport heated or diluted bitumen and condensate, diesel or crude from Fort Hills to the ETF; tank terminals also support the operation of the asset, including two 300,000 barrel bitumen storage tanks, one 150,000 barrel diluent storage tank and one 50,000 barrel diesel tank at the north end of the asset.

"Partnering with Suncor on a project of this magnitude is an exciting example of how Indigenous communities can work differently with industry in the region, benefitting our community and providing generational opportunity for our members," said Bourque.

Watch the below video for more information. For the full article, click the link below. For more media coverage, click to view publication.

Cultural Exchange Event - September 10, 2021

caron@ciprcommunications.com (Caron Anderson) — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 21:42:58 GMT

We were pleased to welcome over 50 stakeholders, partners, and community members in person and online for our first Cultural Exchange event on September 10, 2021. We spent the afternoon learning and discovering as we updated everyone on our current projects and future goals.

Thank you to Wes Olsen for presenting on the history and importance of the Bison. And thank you to our team for sharing the latest on our Bison Resiliency Grant and Program.

We enjoyed a traditional meal together and we were pleased to unveil our next steps in creating a sustainable future for the Willow Lake Métis Nation.

Willow Lake Métis Nation Flag Raised in Anzac, A Vital Step Towards Reconciliation

caron@ciprcommunications.com (Caron Anderson) — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 16:30:38 GMT

The ceremony marks the first flag-raising since the passing of the Municipality's new Flag Policy recognizing and incorporating Indigenous community flags, including the Willow Lake Métis Nation flag.

REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF WOOD BUFFALO, AB, Aug. 19, 2021 /CNW/ - The historic flag raising ceremony saw the Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) flag raised and displayed at gazebo park in Anzac for the first time. As documented members of the community since 1856, the contribution of the WLMN will be formally recognized as their flag permanently flies alongside the Canadian, Alberta, and Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo flags in Anzac. The Act demonstrates a willingness to work collaboratively towards further reconciliation and future prosperity for the Anzac community, and the WLMN.

"This is an important and meaningful day of recognition for the Métis People of Willow Lake, and the community of Anzac," said Willow Lake Métis Nation's Vice President and CEO, Justin Bourque. Adding, "we acknowledge the hard truths of our past, but we know that our past does not dictate our future, and today demonstrates our willingness and commitment to do better."

The ceremony marks the first flag-raising since the Municipality unanimously passed an updated flag policy that is inclusive of Indigenous flags in July 2021. The updated policy serves as an acknowledgement of the WLMN's history, as their flag is now permanently raised in Anzac at the gazebo park and at the Anzac Fire Hall. The raising of the flag provides a visual reminder to recognize and honour that the land upon which Anzac sits includes that of WLMN.

"We hope actions like this show how the RMWB is committed to implementing recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, and we look forward to continuing this work with all Indigenous communities as partners towards true reconciliation," said Deputy Mayor Phil Meagher. "This visual acknowledgement will be a reminder that this land is the traditional lands of Indigenous peoples and it is our intent that the raising of this flag show respect to the governance and members of Willow Lake Métis Nation."

On August 19, 2021, a landmark moment unfolded in the heart of Anzac as the Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) flag was raised for the very first time. This act — the first under the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo's newly updated Flag Policy — marked not just a ceremonial event, but a meaningful gesture of respect, inclusion, and reconciliation.

Historic Agreement Between Alberta Métis Federation & Manitoba Métis Federation

caron@ciprcommunications.com (Caron Anderson) — Tue, 27 Jul 2021 13:34:07 GMT

Historic Agreement Between Alberta Métis Federation & Manitoba Métis Federation
On July 21st, 2021, The Alberta Métis Federation and the Manitoba Métis Federation made history by uniting in the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on behalf of their respective communities. The Willow Lake Métis Nation are proud to have joined our fellow grassroots Métis communities as co-signatories to this historic agreement.

This monumental agreement demonstrates a willingness to work together in the spirt of nation-building and, as part of the historic Métis Nation, as kin and as neighbours, to establish a relationship for cooperation to protect our Nation and to benefit our Métis citizens.

The Alberta Métis Federation was created out of the belief that Métis people in Alberta can be effectively represented by grassroots leadership committed to accountability, transparency, and community engagement.

Willow Lake Métis Nation remains steadfast in our commitment to effectively represent and advocate for the rights of our people, creating generational prosperity, and ensuring cultural preservation and awareness. We can best achieve these outcomes through uniting with like-minded, grassroots organizations such as the Manitoba Métis Federation.

Willow Lake Métis Nation looks forward to further developing this relationship grounded in common understanding and good faith, honouring Métis Veterans, Elders, families, and future generations.

Welcome to Andy on behalf of Willow Lake Métis Nation!

caron@ciprcommunications.com (Caron Anderson) — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 20:08:48 GMT

Willow Lake Métis Nation and Lethbridge Métis Local #2003 Enter into Memorandum of Understanding, Uniting Grassroots Métis Communities

caron@ciprcommunications.com (Caron Anderson) — Tue, 13 Jul 2021 15:59:52 GMT

The newly formed memorandum of understanding between Willow Lake Métis Nation and Lethbridge Métis Local #2003 commits to engaging and working collaboratively with grassroots Métis Communities through kinship and the desire to support Métis development across the Homeland.

REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF WOOD BUFFALO, CITY OF LETHBRIDGE, AB, July 13, 2021 /CNW/ - Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) and Lethbridge Métis Local #2003 announced today they have entered into a memorandum of understanding. While the Willow Lake Métis Nation have formally undertaken the process of dissolution from the Métis Nation of Alberta, this new agreement is a commitment to continue working closely with all Métis people, across the province, to achieve common goals.

"Willow Lake Métis Nation's journey to self-governance has always maintained focus on strengthening and developing the Métis people of Willow Lake while maintaining our connection to our identity, culture and homeland, said Willow Lake Métis Nation's Vice President and CEO, Justin Bourque. Adding, "This new partnership with Lethbridge Métis is exciting as it provides opportunities for both communities to collaborate, learn, share and benefit from each other without political constraints. This relationship is a true testament that the grassroots Métis People want to work together to progress the Métis People regardless of political affiliation as our culture knows no such boundaries."

Willow Lake Métis Nation CEO discusses new partnership on CBC's Radio Active

caron@ciprcommunications.com (Caron Anderson) — Thu, 03 Jun 2021 12:38:30 GMT

The Willow Lake Métis Nation has taken its first step towards renewable energy. A new modern take on the traditional relationship between the Indigenous community and the land .

Willow Lake Métis Nation Establishes Development Corporation Alongside Inaugural Partner, Elemental, Redefining Reconciliation Through Community Prosperity and Generational Opportunity

caron@ciprcommunications.com (Caron Anderson) — Tue, 01 Jun 2021 17:48:29 GMT

The newly formed partnership between Elemental and the Willow Lake Métis Nation strives to be an example of how thoughtful business partnerships with equity opportunities for Indigenous communities can unite Métis people across Canada.

REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF WOOD BUFFALO, AB, June 1, 2021 /CNW/ - Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) and Elemental, an infrastructure and sustainability corporation, have announced a new partnership, creating the Willow Lake Métis Nation Development Corporation. The Development Corporation will focus on economic inclusion for Indigenous communities, creating a new model for prosperity and generational opportunity for Métis and Indigenous communities.

With an emphasis on sustainable infrastructure development, the newly formed Development Corporation is taking its first step towards developing an East-West Indigenous ownership corridor across Canada, focusing on renewable energy projects that will result in green credits, offsetting Alberta's oil sands emissions. This approach will support the oil sands industry in the Wood Buffalo region, while also creating new sustainable business opportunities for Indigenous investments and ownership.

"WLMN is on a mission to redefine the traditional relationship between Indigenous communities and industry players, said Willow Lake Métis Nation's Vice President and CEO, Justin Bourque. Adding, "We believe that true reconciliation can only be achieved through equity partnerships that create community prosperity and opportunities for future generations of Indigenous communities."

The partnership between Elemental and the Willow Lake Métis Nation will be driven by a collective vision of entrepreneurship and a mandate of diversification, sustainability, capacity building, equity ownership, inclusion, and infrastructure creation in the Wood Buffalo region and beyond. The newly formed Development Corp will pursue opportunities across sectors including, power generation and transmission, oil and gas, water filtration, housing, agriculture, transportation, environment data, aggregate, construction, heavy equipment, and engineering.

"Working with the Willow Lake Métis Nation has proven to be a productive and progressive experience," said Chris Hornsby, CEO, Elemental. Adding, "The Elemental team is fully committed to converting current and future developments in the spirit of partnership and to create and achieve mutual economic value with the Willow Lake Métis Nation. The elements of our inclusive integrated development partnership suit our industry leading ESG developments and enhanced inherent economic rights."

Willow Lake Métis Nation is launching the development corporation to support and contribute to the local economy and the future sustainability of the nation. This latest partnership is one component of a larger effort to redefine Indigenous relationships with industry partners. WLMN is working to provide the industry with a different Indigenous community-based business model. This development corporation will work with other Nations and Indigenous communities to provide opportunities and ensure a prosperous future for many Nations.

To learn more about this new strategic partnership, visit: https://www.wlmn.ca/

About Willow Lake Métis Nation

Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) are a Métis community whose members now mostly reside in the community of Anzac, Alberta. WLMN's roots lie in the history of the fur trade in Alberta and the economic and political circumstances that evolved during and after the fur trade.

The historical Willow Lake community was close to trade and travel routes that connected Fort McMurray and Willow Lake to Lac La Loche to the east, to Fort Chipewyan to the north, and to Lac La Biche to the south. Willow Lake Métis people lived on and derived their livelihood from the lands between these locations through much of the later fur trade period, and WLMN people continue to use these lands to exercise their Indigenous rights, sustain their culture and identity as Métis people, support their community, and pass their knowledge and way of life on to their descendants. Key Métis family lines represented in the WLMN community include Bourque, Cardinal, Huppie, Lavallee, McKenzie, Quintal, and Whitford.

For more information, visit: https://www.wlmn.ca/about-us

About Elemental

Elemental is committed to Infrastructure & Sustainability outcomes for Indigenous, Industry & Municipalities. "Elemental delivers industry leading integrated developments through a proprietary "Center of Excellence (COE) inclusive application model." The result is a maximization of stakeholder outcomes through our iP3 & iEPC developmental structure.

Enhancing inherent economic rights and achieving outcomes inclusive of education, employment & capacity, equity & profit, as well as infrastructure & sustainability are Elemental's core competencies & focus.

For more information, visit: https://elementalpower.ca/

Willow Lake Métis Group and Maviro Group Form Strategic Partnership

admin@ciprcommunications.com (Christina Pilarski) — Wed, 02 Dec 2020 04:37:55 GMT

The Newly formed strategic partnership between Willow Lake Métis Group and the Maviro Group will increase capacity for facility maintenance, turnarounds, through pigging and decoking and catalyst services, while generating economic opportunities for the Willow Lake Métis Nation in the Wood Buffalo Region.

REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF WOOD BUFFALO, AB, Dec. 2, 2020 /CNW/ - Willow Lake Métis Group (WLMG) and specialty service provider, Maviro, announced today they will enter into a newly formed partnership agreement, increasing their presence in the Wood Buffalo Region. The partnership will provide increased capacity for the WLMG, furthering their efforts to offer services related to facility maintenance, turnarounds, through pigging and decoking and catalyst services across sectors, in northern Alberta.

The WLMG was created to support and contribute to the local economy and the future sustainability of the WLMN. This latest partnership, is part of a larger effort to establish strong relationships with industry partners, allowing WLMG to become the strategic Indigenous industry partner of choice. WLMG is working to provide industry with a different indigenous community-based business model in providing full-service expertise for large scale projects, including maintenance, turnaround, and facility services.

"WLMG is on a mission to ensure a better future for each of our citizens, with a promise of prosperity for future generations. Our new partnership with Maviro will support our community as we work towards becoming the general contractor of choice in the Wood Buffalo Region," said Willow Lake Métis Group CEO, Justin Bourque. "Maviro has a track record delivering exceptional workmanship, we are thrilled to partner this multinational service provider that has such close ties with Alberta."

The Maviro Group services the North American Refineries, Petrochemical, manufacturing, Utility and Pulp and Paper markets with a range of Specialty Industrial Services. These services include decoking, pigging, filtration, catalyst services, crane-less catalyst loading, laser cleaning and surface preparation.

"Maviro is thrilled to be aligning with the strategic business and social initiatives of the Willow Lake Métis Group. This new partnership will allow us to offer a unique bundle of services, providing immediate benefits to our clients in the region," said Bill Deering CEO, Maviro. "We are committed to working alongside the Willow Lake Metis Nation and their citizens to preserve cultural and traditional values, promote social sovereignty and drive economic sustainability."

To learn more about this new strategic partnership, visit: willowlakemetisgroup.ca

About Willow Lake Métis Group: The Willow Lake Métis Group exists to ensure our community has an opportunity to be industry leaders that contribute to our local economy and the future sustainability of our community. We are proud to have established strong relationships with industry partners that allow us to become your strategic Indigenous industry partner. Working with each of the industry partners allows us to provide full-service expertise for large scale projects. We can handle a multitude of services related to maintenance, turnaround, and servicing of your facility.

We are continuing to work towards building capacity and strengthen our mandate. Willow Lake Métis Group looks forward to working with the major industry players in our region in Northern Alberta to provide service and partnership at a new standard. For more information, visit: willowlakemetisgroup.ca

About Maviro: Maviro is a specialty industrial services company and was formed from the unification of three long-established service companies: Mattawa Industrial Services, Vistec, and Envirosystems USA, Inc. in 2018. Maviro provides specialty industrial services to a variety of markets in North America, including refineries, petrochemical, SAG-D. manufacturing, utility, and pulp and paper.

Our services include pigging and decoking, catalyst services—including crane-less catalysts loading (Matta-Lift®)—surface preparation and laser cleaning. Due to our experience and expertise, Maviro has become an industry leader in industrial maintenance, industrial projects, and shutdown and turnaround services. For more information, visit www.maviro.com .

For further information:

Media Contact for Maviro

Chris Boase, Senior Vice President

Maviro

CBoase@maviro.com

713-485-5193

Sash Corporation and Skyway Canada Ltd Create Joint Venture Partnership and Announce New Company, Mamawi-Sky

admin@ciprcommunications.com (Christina Pilarski) — Mon, 17 Aug 2020 03:06:58 GMT

Mamawi-Sky will generate economic opportunities for four Metis Associations in the Wood Buffalo Region

REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF WOOD BUFFALO, AB, Aug. 17, 2020 /CNW/ - Sash Corporation and Skyway Canada Ltd ("Skyway") are pleased to announce that they have signed a joint venture partnership agreement to form a new company called Mamawi-Sky. The new company was established to provide technical solutions to clients in the Wood Buffalo region. The joint venture partnership was created to

grow Skyway's presence in the Wood Buffalo region while enhancing opportunities and capabilities for Sash Corporation, creating a win-win for both organizations. "Mamawi" was included in the new company name as it is the Cree word for "together".

"The four Metis Associations that make up Sash Corporation are thrilled for the benefits that the new joint-venture agreement with Skyway will create for our communities and our people," said Willow Lake Metis Nation CEO and Sash Corporation Spokesperson, Justin Bourque. "Skyway's extensive experience in providing scaffolding, mechanical insulation, coatings, fireproofing, rope access and swing stage services will enhance our capabilities as a company and will provide skills development and valuable work experience opportunities for our members."

Sash Corporation is an economic partnership of four Metis Associations in the Wood Buffalo region, including the Willow Lake Metis Association, Fort MacKay Metis Community Association, Fort Chipewyan Metis Association, and Metis Nation of Alberta Conklin Local #193. Under the new joint venture partnership, 51 per cent of Mamawi-Sky is owned by Sash Corporation and 49 per cent is owned by Skyway.

"Skyway is very committed to working together with our Indigenous partners in Canada and this new joint venture partnership is another step towards achieving this goal," said Skyway's President and CEO, Gary Carew. "To best support our clients in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo and to provide a local base for our new partnership, Mamawi-Sky will be based in Anzac. We look forward to providing technical solutions together for clients in the Wood Buffalo region."

The new joint venture partnership has already started bidding on work in the region and expects to begin executing projects within the next quarter. The partnership has secured office space, creating a local and Indigenous company well-positioned to provide industry-leading value through its core services.

Our success is stronger together. Together We Will Reach the Sky!

About Sash Corporation: Sash Corporation is an economic partnership of four Metis Associations in the Wood Buffalo region, including the Willow Lake Metis Association, Fort MacKay Metis Community Association, Fort Chipewyan Metis Association, and Metis Nation of Alberta Conklin Local #193.

About Skyway Canada Limited: Skyway Canada is one of Canada's largest specialty service companies offering access scaffolding, mechanical insulation, coatings, fireproofing, rope access and swing stage services. Skyway has been in business supporting customers since 1967 with offices across Canada.

Skyway Canada Limited is a Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB) Progressive Aboriginal Relations Committed member and is committed to working together with Indigenous partners to achieve economic success in local partner communities.

For further information:

Media contact for Skyway:

Conrad Mitchell, Indigenous Engagement Manager

Skyway Canada Limited

Conrad.mitchell@skycan.ca

780-413-8007

Business contact for Mamawi-Sky:

Adam Green, Branch Manager

Adam.green@skycan.ca

780-413-8007

Steel River Group and Willow Lake Métis Nation Form Partnership

admin@ciprcommunications.com (Christina Pilarski) — Wed, 03 Jun 2020 03:18:56 GMT

Steel River Energy Services, an affiliate company of Steel River Group, and Willow Lake Holdings Co. are thrilled to be establishing a relationship and partnership, operating under the name Steel Willow Resources LP. The joint entity will explore the business opportunities within the regions of the Municipality of Wood Buffalo, Lac La Biche, Anzac, Fort McMurray, Cold Lake, and North East Saskatchewan.

Aligning with the strategic initiatives of Willow Lake Métis Nation business and social interests, Steel Willow Resources LP will explore regional opportunities in a variety of sectors such as Oil & Gas, Mining, Civil, Infrastructure, Environmental, and Water Care.

Steel River looks forward to working with Willow Lake Métis Nation and their citizens to continue reimagining how we define, create, and capture the preservation of cultural and traditional values, champion social sovereignty, and drive economic sustainability.

Alberta Métis Federation is Formed

admin@ciprcommunications.com (Christina Pilarski) — Thu, 27 Feb 2020 12:25:56 GMT

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/fort-mckay-metis-nation-alberta-1.5478995

Six Northern Métis Communities Separate From Métis Nation of Alberta Association

admin@ciprcommunications.com (Christina Pilarski) — Thu, 27 Feb 2020 03:19:39 GMT

Six northern Métis communities are leaving the Métis Nation of Alberta association to create a new organization.

Ron Quintal, president of the Fort McKay Métis, made the announcement on Thursday, saying he considers the MNA "a club, not a government."

Quintal said the MNA only has authority over nations that choose to be represented by it, and now six have chosen to leave the organization:

Athabasca Landing
Owl River
Willow Lake
Lakeland
Chard
Fort McKay

On its website, the MNA describes itself as "the Métis government for Métis Albertans." Its stated goal is to "advance the socio-economic and cultural well-being of the Métis people of Alberta."

But Quintal said the organization hasn't accomplished that for the Fort McKay Métis.

We've gotten absolutely zero support, or zero dollars from the Métis Nation of Alberta for any programs or services," he said.

While the newly formed Alberta Métis Federation has a chairperson, Quintal said it will be "leaderless."

The new organization, he said, "allows communities to have their own say in the greater context of the Métis nation."

Ron Quintal announced the separation of six nations from the MNA. (Jamie Malbeuf/CBC)

The Fort McKay Métis wasn't allowed to be involved in conversations on reconciliation, governance or finances, Quintal said.

"We were completely locked out," he said.

The new federation will now send a letter to the federal and provincial governments to discuss how it intends to move forward.

Quintal said the new federation will give communities more control over their own affairs, and will allow them to consult directly with the federal government, instead of going through the MNA.

"We're just trying to represent our members," said Quintal.

Justin Bourque, vice-president of the Willow Lake Métis, said his group left the MNA because its president was not welcome at regional council meetings.

He said the Willow Lake Métis wanted more say in consultation with industry, and community members have been clear that they want the in-fighting to end.

"The years of the Métis battling against the Métis and not progressing the Métis agenda is gone," he said. "The years of us collectively working together to progress as a nation is today."

The Métis Nation of Alberta did not respond to CBC's request for comment.

But on Wednesday the organization issued a news release saying that MNA locals were rallying against the efforts of some communities to create "Métis Community Associations."

The MNA said it represents more than 3,000 people in northeastern Alberta, and now "a few individuals … are attempting to speak for over 3,000 Métis rights holders without even engaging these citizens and without any consultation, authorization or transparency."

What's going on is divide and conquer," Cameron MacDonald, president of MNA local 125 in Fort Chipewyan, said in the release." Neighbours, friends and families are being divided by these tactics.

"Last week, our community in Fort Chipewyan rejected breaking away from the MNA. Now, a few individuals want to overturn the will of our citizens. This is not right."

Quintal said other Métis nations are also looking to separate from the MNA.

Justin Bourque, vice-president of the Willow Lake Métis, said the Willow Lake Métis wanted more say in consultation with industry, and community members have been clear that they want the in-fighting to end. "The years of the Métis battling against the Métis and not progressing the Métis agenda is gone," he said. "The years of us collectively working together to progress as a nation is today."

Coalition of Northern Metis Communities File Historic Land Claim

admin@ciprcommunications.com (Christina Pilarski) — Thu, 17 Oct 2019 12:25:26 GMT

https://thestarphoenix.com/news/local-news/saskatchewan-northern-alberta-metis-communities-file-massive-land-claim