The Community of Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) in Anzac gathered to celebrate the milestone of their most recent land acquisition.
The WLMN made official the purchase of 205 acres of land, formerly Platt Farm, located south of Gregoire Lake.
Stella Lavallee, President of WLMN, said it was about much more than land.
“Today is a celebration of a historic milestone for Métis peoples, and Willow Lake Métis Nation is incredibly proud to be leading the charge. Sohkastwâwin, Cree for ‘the act of being resilient,’ is so much more than land. It is a tangible representation of our Nation’s resilience and our strong commitment to mitigate climate change.”
Lavallee said ‘Sohkastwâwin’ will provide an eco-bison ranch, local food source, garden, a community cultural centre, and Métis housing.
In September 2021, Willow Lake Métis Nation joined Suncor and seven other Indigenous communities in the RMWB in forming Astisiy Ltd.
The partnership resulted in 15 per cent ownership of the Northern Courier pipeline.
Revenue from the deal helped WLMN acquire the former Platt Farm land.
Justin Bourque, CEO of WLMN, said the Nation also plans for cultural education, climate change initiatives, disaster mitigation, and tourism.
“Bison and the Métis are intricately connected, and both share a powerful historical connection to all living things. Revitalizing our connection with the bison will be a key component in our work to revitalize our land and lay the foundation for our future.”
Bourque credited their partnerships and relationships nationwide, calling them the backbone to their success.
He said ‘Sohkastwâwin’ is an example of what peoples can accomplish together.
“Our Nation’s success is not built by our achievements, but by the relationships and partnerships we have formed. These connections have bolstered our confidence to continue to actively maintain our right to self-governance. The Willow Lake Métis always have been, and always will be, resilient peoples.”
On social media, Fort McMurray-Cold Lake MP Laila Goodridge sent a message of congratulations to the WLMN on the land acquisition.
WLMN hosted a celebration with partners and fellow stakeholders on June 3, 2022.
