Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation facts for kids
The Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation is a community of Ojibwe people, also known as Ontario Saulteaux. They are a First Nation located in Kenora District, Ontario, close to Nestor Falls, Ontario. This community, along with the Big Grassy First Nation, continues the traditions of the older Assabaska Band of Saulteaux. In 2012, there were 737 registered members. About 445 of these members lived on their own lands. The First Nation is part of the Anishinabeg of Kabapikotawangag Resource Council. This council is also a member of the larger Grand Council of Treaty 3.
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Where They Live: Their Reserves
The Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation has six special land areas called reserves:
- Sabaskong Bay 35C is about 777 hectares (1,920 acres).
- Sabaskong Bay 35D is about 504 hectares (1,245 acres). This is their main community area.
- Sabaskong Bay 35F is about 518 hectares (1,280 acres).
- Sabaskong Bay 35H is about 260 hectares (642 acres).
- Assabaska is about 1,098 hectares (2,713 acres). They share this land with the Big Grassy First Nation.
- Agency 30 is about 379 hectares (937 acres). This land is shared with 12 other First Nations.
How They Are Led: Governance
The Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation is led by Chief Jeffrey Copenace. He works with five Councillors: Gus Copenace, Kathy Jack, Shawn Kelly, Kathy Kishiqueb, and Clarissa Copenace. Their elected two-year term ended in 2025.
Their Story: History
The Seven Generations Education Institute (SGEI) is a special school. It is owned and run by Aboriginal communities. It helps students get a post-secondary education after high school. Ten First Nations in the Rainy Lake Tribal area started this institute in 1985.
These ten First Nations are:
- Big Grassy
- Big Island
- Couchiching
- Lac La Croix
- Naicatchewenin
- Nigigoonsiminikaaning
- Ojibways of Onigaming
- Rainy River
- Seine River
- Mitaanjigaming
Each of these ten communities chose one person to be on the school's board of directors. This board helps guide the institute, working with its executive director.
More Information
- Profile from INAC