Takla Lake First Nation facts for kids
| Type | First Nations government |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Prince George, BC |
| Location | |
|
Chief
|
John French |
|
Deputy Chief
|
Sandra Teegee |
The Takla Lake Nation is a First Nation group located in British Columbia, Canada. They live around Takla Lake, which is about 400 kilometers (250 miles) north of Prince George, British Columbia. Their main community is called Takla Landing, found at the north end of Takla Lake.
The Takla Lake First Nation looks after 17 different land areas, known as reserves. These lands cover a total of 809 hectares (about 2,000 acres). There are around 650 members in the Takla Lake First Nation. This Nation was formed in 1959 when two groups, the Takla Lake and Fort Connelly bands, joined together.
Contents
Community Life at Takla Lake
The main Takla reserve has many important buildings and services for its members. These facilities help the community live and learn.
Important Buildings and Services
- Band office: This is where the Nation's government and administration work.
- Community hall: A place for gatherings, events, and celebrations.
- Nus Wadeezulh School: Provides education for children and adults.
- Health clinic: Offers medical care and health services.
- Church: A place for spiritual and religious activities.
- Elders centre: A special place for the older, respected members of the community.
- Gym: For sports and physical activities.
- Baseball field: A place for outdoor sports.
- Takla Store, restaurant, motel, and fuel station: These businesses serve the community and visitors.
Nuswadeezulh Community School
The Nuswadeezulh Community School is a key part of the Takla Lake community. It teaches students from Kindergarten up to Grade 10. The school also offers classes for adults and other special education programs. The name Nuswadeezulh means "Looking into the Future," which shows the school's goal to prepare students for what's ahead.
Community Safety and Access
In October 1999, a Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) office opened in Takla Lake. This office helps keep the community safe. It has two police officers who are from Indigenous backgrounds and one corporal in charge.
Getting to Takla Lake used to be difficult, often only by boat or float plane. Now, there is an unpaved forestry road that connects to the community. Postal service is available once a week for mail pick-up and delivery. Electricity has been available since 1985, making life much easier for residents. Recently, phone and internet services have improved by switching to satellite technology.
Governance and Culture
The Takla Lake First Nation has its own government structure. This helps them make decisions for their community.
Leadership and Decision-Making
The Takla Lake First Nation is led by one Chief and four councilors. All these leaders are chosen by the community members through elections. They work together to guide the Nation.
Languages and Identity
Today, most people in Takla Lake speak English. Many also speak the Babine dialect of Babine-Witsuwit'en. This language is often called "Carrier" by the local people. In the past, some people also spoke Sekani and Gitksan. Some members also speak the Stuart Lake dialect of Carrier. Overall, the community identifies strongly as Carrier people.
Cultural Traditions
Traditional customs are very important to the Takla Lake people. The potlatch system and the clan system still play a big role in their lives. A potlatch is a special ceremony where gifts are given, and important events are celebrated. The clan system connects families and groups within the community.
Traditional skills are also highly valued and kept alive. These include tanning animal hides, sewing, and creating beautiful beaded traditional clothing. Elders, the older members of the community, are highly respected. They are seen as a valuable source of knowledge and wisdom. Elders are very active and important in community life.
