Cohort 2: 2023/2024

Locations: Traplines in Mistissini, Waswanipi, Wemindji

Launch: March 12, 2023

Graduation: January 29, 2024 (Mistissini)

This cohort followed a regional model, with instruction delivered on various traplines across inland and coastal Cree communities. Camps were chosen based on road accessibility and ecological diversity.

Safety Collaboration

Partnered with PPRO-Emergency Measures (Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay) to provide First Responders with camp coordinates for enhanced safety and emergency preparedness.

Funding Partners

The second cohort was made possible through generous support from the following organizations:

• Niskamoon Corporation
• Cree Nation Government – Challenge Fund
• Apatisiiwin Skills Development
• Cégep – Quebec Ministry of Education
• Cree Trappers’ Association

Their contributions ensured the continued quality, safety, and success of this meaningful educational initiative.

Program Highlights

Students participated in intensive, land-based instruction and gained experiential knowledge across the program’s 15 core competencies.

Highlights included:

• Harvesting & Traditional Foods
  • Rabbit snaring, marten, and beaver trapping
  • Moose intestine, smoked fish, bear meat
• Camp Building & Survival
  • Canvas tent setup, shelter building, wood harvesting
  • Snowmobiling, basic mechanical repair skills
• Tool Crafting & Leadership
  • Paddle and ice chisel making
  • Students took on increased responsibility in daily camp operations

Acknowledgments – Instructors & Families

A heartfelt Meegwetch to the many Cree knowledge holders and families who contributed to the success of this cohort:

External Support

• Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute (Ouje-Bougoumou)
• Cree Nation Government & Entities
• MELCCFP, FaunENord, MFFP
• Troilus Mine, EEM Fish Sampling-Newmont Éléonore
• Cégep de St-Félicien (Lab support)

Specialized Training:

• Boat Safety & Bush Kit – Guy Poulin
• Trapping Course (FTGQ) – François Payette
• Canadian Firearms Safety Course – Paul Shecapio & Stanley Mianscum

Graduation Ceremony – January 29, 2024

Despite a two-month summer pause due to regional forest fires, the second cohort of the Eeyou Ituun – Cree Land Stewardship Program successfully concluded with a graduation ceremony on January 29, 2024, held in Mistissini.

The event celebrated the accomplishments of nine dedicated students who completed the 900-hour program, demonstrating leadership, cultural knowledge, and land stewardship skills. The graduates were:

Ceremony Highlights

Filled with heartfelt moments, collective joy, and traditional Cree hospitality, the celebration was made possible through the dedicated work of the following service providers:

• Catering: Roger Blacksmith’s Catering Services
• Cake Appreciation: Angie’s Bake Cree
• Sound System & Technical Support: EZQ Sound & Videos
• Master of Ceremonies: Ms. Kathleen Wootton
• Décor and Rentals: Nistiwiitaau Rentals & Services
• Banners, Gifts, and Souvenirs: Lettrage Waldi Inc., Abitibi Trim-Line Inc., MACTRAP, and Cree artisans

Graduate Recognition

Each graduate received:

• A certificate from Cégep de St-Félicien
• An Achievement Award
• Personalized gifts and tokens of appreciation
• The official certificate from the Ministry of Education (to be mailed)

Special Acknowledgments

Gifts of appreciation were presented to:

• The hosting Tallyman and land stewards, in recognition of their support and hospitality.
• Funding partners, for their ongoing commitment and support of Cree land-based education.

Invitees Included

• Representatives from all funding organizations
• Deputy Chief of the Cree Nation Government
• Chief & Council Representative from Mistissini
• Cree instructors/program mentors
• Families and friends of graduates
• Staff from Cégep de St-Félicien
• Staff from Regional Cree Trappers’ Association

Conclusion

The Eeyou Ituun – Cree Land Stewardship Program serves as a model of culturally grounded education. Through land-based learning, intergenerational knowledge transfer, and strong community partnerships, the program equips Cree youth with the tools to preserve their identity, traditions, and sustainably steward the lands of Eeyou Istchee for generations to come.

Meegwetch to all who continue to walk this path, support this journey, and share in this vision.