Weenusk First Nation facts for kids
The Weenusk First Nation is a Cree First Nation group located in the Canadian province of Ontario. Their name, "Weenusk," means "ground hog" in the Cree language. In September 2007, about 516 people were officially registered as members of the Weenusk First Nation.
This First Nation was once an independent member of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN). However, they have since joined the Mushkegowuk Council, which is a regional group of First Nations. The Mushkegowuk Council is also a member of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation.
The main land for the Weenusk First Nation is the reserve called Winisk Indian Reserve 90. This reserve covers about 5,310 hectares (which is about 13,121 acres). Connected to this reserve is a settlement known as Peawanuck, which also has reserve status.
The original Weenusk First Nation community was located within their reserve, about 6 kilometers (4 miles) upriver from Hudson Bay. But on May 16, 1986, severe spring floods destroyed much of their settlement. Because of this, the community had to move about 30 kilometers (19 miles) southwest to Peawanuck. In the Cree language, "Peawanuck" means "a place where flint is found."
Most people in the Weenusk community are Swampy Cree. They speak the n-dialect of the Cree language. Since the community includes Cree, Oji-cree, Ojibwa, and Métis peoples, other languages like Anishininiimowin and Ojibwemowin are also spoken there.
Community Leadership
The Weenusk First Nation is led by a Chief and a group of councillors. The Chief helps make decisions and guide the community. The councillors work with the Chief to represent the people and manage community affairs.
Currently, Chief Joey Hunter leads the Weenusk First Nation. He works alongside three councillors: Jeff Hunter, Leah Hunter, and Paul Koostachin. Together, they help manage the daily life and future plans for the Weenusk First Nation community.
