Declaration

Press Release – February 15, 2024
Winnipeg, MB – Treaty 1 Territory
Declaration from the Anisininew Nations

Declaration

We, the Anisininew Nations and Peoples, in solemn assembly at the historic Anisininew Inninuwag Mamawhitowin, hosted by the Anisininew Okimawin, hereby declare the following:

Preamble

Acknowledging the unity, cultural reaffirmation, and sovereignty that has brought us together; recognizing the unique and distinct identity, culture, and language of the Anisininew Peoples; and honoring our deep-rooted connection to our ancestral territories now known as Manitoba and Ontario, we come together in the spirit of Nationhood, self-determination, and sovereignty.
Article 1: Identity and Nationhood We declare that we are not Oji-Cree; we are the Anisininew Nations. Our identity is unique, distinguished by our culture, language (Anisinineemowin or Inninimowin), and historical ties to our lands, recognized by the United Nations as distinct. In affirming our sovereignty, we emphasize the importance of being recognized and respected as the Anisininew Nation and Peoples.

Article 2:

Unity, Collective Commitment, and Sovereignty We unite as the Anisininew Nations, comprising Red Sucker Lake Anisininew Nation, Garden Hill Anisininew Nation, St. Theresa Point Anisininew Nation, Wasagamack Anisininew Nation, Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug Anisininew Nation, Sandy Lake Anisininew Nation, Bearskin Lake Anisininew Nation, Sachigo Lake Anisininew Nation, Deer Lake Anisininew Nation, Muskrat Dam Anisininew Nation, Wawakapewin Anisininew Nation, Wapakeka Anisininew Nation, Weagamow Lake Anisininew Nation, Kingfisher Lake Anisininew Nation, Keewaywin Anisininew Nation, Wunnumin Lake Anisininew Nation, and Koocheching Anisininew Nation, in a collective commitment to our Nationhood, shared ancestry, culture, language, and sovereignty. United by these bonds, we assert our inherent sovereignty, standing together as a testament to the strength and resilience of the Anisininew.

Article 3:

Ancestral Lands, Traditions, and Sovereignty Our ancestors lived in harmony with the land, ensuring abundance through sharing. The imposition of colonial borders and treaty-making efforts have fragmented our relations. We reject these divisions, aiming to honor the legacy and aspirations of our future generations, asserting our sovereignty over our ancestral lands and traditions.

Article 4:

The Anisininew Inninuwag Mamawhitowin and Sovereignty. The Anisininew Inninuwag amawhitowin is a renewal of the bonds that connect our nations across Manitoba and Ontario. It signifies our intent to move forward as one Anisininew Nation, guided by unity, respect for our raditions, preservation of our language and culture, and the affirmation of our sovereignty.

Article 5:

Rights to Self-Identification, Self-Determination, and Sovereignty. We call upon our communities, allies, and the broader public to recognize and support our rights to self-identification, self-determination, stewardship of our ancestral lands, and sovereignty. This includes a call to all levels of government to respect and recognize us distinctly as the Anisininew Nation and Peoples, not merely as part of the broader category of First Nations.

Article 6:

Sovereignty and Call to Action Together, we will forge a path that honours the spirit and intent of our ancestors, ensuring a prosperous and vibrant future for the Anisininew Nation. We commit to the revitalization of our Nation, embracing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead with strength, wisdom, unity, and sovereignty.

Conclusion

In witness whereof, we, the representatives of the Anisininew Nations, have hereunto set our hands, this declaration being made in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on the 15th day of February, 2024. This marks a new chapter in our journey towards revitalization, self-determination, and the affirmation of our sovereignty and Nationhood.