Whitesand First Nation facts for kids

The Whitesand First Nation (Severn Ojibwa: ᐗᐱᓀᑲ) is an Ojibway First Nation community in Northern Ontario, Canada. A First Nation is one of the Indigenous peoples of Canada. They have their own special land called a reserve. Their reserve is named Whitesand and covers about 249 hectares (615 acres).

The main community for the Whitesand First Nation is called Armstrong Settlement. This community is right next to the town of Armstrong, Thunder Bay District, Ontario. In June 2008, there were 1086 people registered as members of the Whitesand First Nation. About 311 of these members lived on their reserve.

The Whitesand First Nation originally lived near Lake Nipigon, close to the Whitesand River. The river is where they got their name. However, starting in 1942, high water levels began to wash away their land. This flooding damaged their buildings and even their burial grounds. Because of this, they had to leave their original home.

Many members of the Whitesand First Nation moved to areas along the Canadian National Railway line. This railway brought jobs and new ways of life. The biggest settlement they formed was in Armstrong. Later, when a new reserve was agreed upon, it was placed just north of the Armstrong community. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) helps keep the community safe, based on an agreement with the First Nation's leaders.

Understanding Governance

First Nations like Whitesand have their own governments. These governments are made up of a Chief and several councillors. They are elected by the community members. These leaders work together to make decisions for their people and manage the reserve. They deal with things like community services, education, and looking after the land.

The Whitesand First Nation is part of a larger group called the Independent First Nations Alliance. This alliance is part of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation, which represents many First Nations in Northern Ontario. Even though they are part of this alliance, the Whitesand First Nation is also located within the area covered by the Robinson Superior Treaty. Treaties are important agreements made between First Nations and the Canadian government.

The First Nation is also a member of Waaskiinaysay Ziibi Inc.. This is a group of five First Nations from the Lake Nipigon area that work together on projects to help their communities grow and create jobs.

Images for kids

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  A view of the Whitesand First Nation community.