Kawacatoose First Nation facts for kids
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|
| People | Plains Cree |
|---|---|
| Treaty | Treaty 4 |
| Headquarters | Raymore |
| Province | Saskatchewan |
| Land | |
| Main reserve | Poorman 88 |
| Other reserve(s) | |
| Land area | 142.563 km2 |
| Population (2019) | |
| On reserve | 1157 |
| On other land | 1 |
| Off reserve | 2092 |
| Total population | 3250 |
| Government | |
| Chief | Lee-Anne Kehler (First women chief) |
| Tribal Council | |
| Touchwood Agency Tribal Council | |
| Website | |
| kawacatoose.ca | |
The Kawacatoose First Nation (Cree: ᑲᐚᐦᑲᑐᐢ kawâhkatos) is a special community of Plains Cree people. They live in the province of Saskatchewan, Canada. This First Nation is a self-governing group. They have their own leaders and manage their own lands, which are called reserves.
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Understanding the Kawacatoose First Nation
The Kawacatoose First Nation is one of many First Nations across Canada. These groups are the original peoples of the land. They have rich histories, cultures, and traditions. The Kawacatoose people are part of the larger Cree nation. The Cree are one of the largest groups of Indigenous people in North America.
Their Land and Reserves
The Kawacatoose First Nation has several important land areas. These lands are known as reserves. They are set aside for the use and benefit of the First Nation members.
Their main reserves include:
They also share a special reserve called Treaty Four Reserve Grounds 77. This land is shared with 32 other First Nations. It is a place for gatherings and ceremonies.
The Importance of Treaty 4
The Kawacatoose First Nation is a signatory to Treaty 4. A treaty is a formal agreement between different groups. In this case, it was an agreement between First Nations and the Canadian government. Treaty 4 was signed in 1874. It helped define the relationship between the First Nations and the government. It also set aside the reserve lands.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The First Nation is named after Chief Kawacatoose. He was an important leader. Chief Kawacatoose was one of the original people who signed Treaty 4. His name comes from the Cree word kawâhkatoso. This word means "be weak with hunger."
A more exact translation of his name is "hungry skinny man." However, the name "poor man" has been used for a long time. It is still the official name for the Poorman 88 reserve today. This name reflects a part of their history and identity.
Leadership and Community
The Kawacatoose First Nation has its own elected leaders. These leaders work to support their community members. They help manage the reserves and important services. The current chief is Lee-Anne Kehler. She is the first woman chief of the Kawacatoose First Nation. The First Nation is also part of the Touchwood Agency Tribal Council. This council helps different First Nations work together.
