Celebrating 250 Years of Île-à-la-Crosse
Île-à-la-Crosse is the second oldest permanent community in Western Canada. Our history is woven into the very fabric of the Métis Nation: it is the birthplace of Louis Riel Sr. and the final resting place of his daughter, Sarah Riel.
We celebrate 250 years of standing where the rivers connect, honouring our ancestors as we protect the land for future generations.
Sakitawak is the Cree name for the place "Where the Rivers Meet". Where the Churchill River, the Beaver River, and the Canoe River systems connect at Île-à-la-Crosse. For us, stewardship is part of our identity, a lived practice woven into our daily lives. As a Métis-led Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area (IPCA), we lead through relationships, grounding every decision in our responsibility to the land, water, and wildlife.
What is an Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area (IPCA)?
Sakitawak is part of a global initiative of Indigenous Nations reclaiming the right to manage our homelands. For our community, the Sakitawak IPCA brings together:
Indigenous-Led Sovereignty
We protect the land using our own governance, self-determination, and traditional knowledge.
Nature and Culture
The interconnection of our language, culture, land, water, and wildlife.
Sustainability with Integrity
We work to prevent industrial activities from damaging the territory we rely on.
Stewardship
Community-led knowledge is centered with our Guardians to ensure the land is tended to for future generations.
Why it matters: An IPCA ensures that those who know the land best are the ones responsible for its care. It puts people and culture at the heart of stewardship.
