Pauingassi First Nation facts for kids
People | Saulteaux |
---|---|
Treaty | Treaty 5 |
Province | Manitoba |
Land | |
Main reserve | Pauingassi First Nation Indian Reserve |
Land area | 2.605 km2 |
Population (2019) | |
On reserve | 624 |
Off reserve | 66 |
Total population | 690 |
Government | |
Chief | Roddy Owens |
Tribal Council | |
Southeast Resource Development Council |
The Pauingassi First Nation is a community of Anishinaabe people. They are also known as Saulteaux or Ojibwa. This First Nation lives in Manitoba, Canada. Their main community is about 280 kilometers (174 miles) northeast of Winnipeg. It is also 24 kilometers (15 miles) north of Little Grand Rapids, Manitoba. The community is on a peninsula that goes into Fishing Lake. This lake flows into the Berens River.
The people of Pauingassi First Nation have always relied on the land. They continue to hunt, fish, and trap. They also gather wild rice, which is an important food source. These activities are a big part of their economy.
The First Nation has one special area of land called a reserve. It is named Pauingassi First Nation Indian Reserve. This reserve covers about 260.50 hectares (643.7 acres). It is their main home and includes the settlement of Pauingassi. The settlement is located at 52°09′20″N 95°22′26″W / 52.15556°N 95.37389°W.
Contents
Understanding Pauingassi Governance
The Pauingassi First Nation has its own way of governing itself. This system helps them make decisions for their community. It is important for First Nations to have control over their own affairs.
Becoming a Separate Nation
The Pauingassi First Nation was once part of the Little Grand Rapids First Nation. In 1988, they received official reserve status. This was a big step towards becoming independent. On October 7, 1991, Pauingassi officially became a separate First Nation. This meant they could govern themselves.
How Pauingassi is Governed
Today, the Pauingassi First Nation uses a "Custom Electoral System" of government. This means they have their own rules for choosing leaders. These rules are based on their traditions and customs. The First Nation is also a member of the Southeast Resource Development Council. This council helps different First Nations work together.
Treaty 5 and Its Importance
The Pauingassi First Nation is a signatory to Treaty 5. A treaty is a formal agreement between First Nations and the Canadian government. Treaty 5 was signed a long time ago. It outlines rights and responsibilities for both sides. Being a signatory means Pauingassi First Nation is part of this historic agreement.