Kawawachikamach, October 18, 2024 – The Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach is pleased to announce that it has received financial assistance from the Government of Quebec to support preserving and enhancing our cultural heritage. This funding, amounting to $50,000, will be directed toward protecting the significant historical and cultural sites surrounding Cambrien, Nachicapau Lakes, and Fort Mackenzie.
These areas are of great importance to the Naskapi Nation, holding archaeological and cultural significance that reflects our rich heritage. The support from the Government’s Action Plan for the Social and Cultural Well-being of First Nations and Inuit will allow us to continue our work in documenting, preserving, and promoting these key sites for future generations.
This initiative aligns with our ongoing efforts to protect and share the unique history and traditions of our people, ensuring that our land and cultural sites remain intact and accessible to our community. The funding will also contribute to fostering deeper dialogue between the Naskapi Nation and the wider public, helping to build stronger connections between cultures.
Quotes
Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach:
“We are grateful for the government’s recognition of our cultural heritage. The preservation of these lands is essential to our identity and our history. Our ancestors’ stories and knowledge are held in the land, and this funding allows us to continue preserving these sacred places for future generations. It also reinforces the importance of cultural dialogue between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.”
— Chief Louise Nattawappio, Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach.
Government of Quebec:
“The government wants to support the interest of Indigenous nations in archaeological heritage. This is why we support the Naskapi Nation in its research to document the sector formed by Cambrien and Nachicapau Lakes, as well as Fort Mackenzie. By supporting various projects, we help ensure the preservation and vitality of heritage for all Aboriginal nations,”
— Mathieu Lacombe, Minister of Culture and Communications, Minister responsible for Youth and Minister responsible for the Outaouais region.
“This initiative not only allows us to deepen our knowledge of a territory of great archaeological wealth, but also to highlight the cultural heritage of the Naskapi Nation. With this new program, our government is proud to support projects carried out by our Aboriginal partners. I hope that this assistance will strengthen the enhancement and promotion of Aboriginal cultures in Quebec and ensure the preservation of Aboriginal heritage for generations to come.”
— Ian Lafrenière, Minister responsible for First Nations and Inuit Relations.
Project Highlights
- The $50,000 in funding will support documenting and preserving cultural sites critical to the Naskapi Nation, specifically the Cambrian and Nachicapau Lakes region and Fort Mackenzie.
- This initiative is part of a broader government effort to support Aboriginal cultural development and ensure the vitality of Indigenous heritage.
- The project also continues the work established in the 2019 Special Agreement for the Conservation of the Cambrian Lake / Lake Nachicapau / Fort Mackenzie sector in partnership with the Kativik Regional Administration, the Makivik Society, Hydro-Québec, and the Government of Quebec.
By focusing on recognizing, protecting, and promoting Naskapi cultural heritage, this project contributes to preserving our identity and the broader reconciliation efforts across Quebec. We are proud to carry this legacy forward.
For more information about our cultural initiatives or the ongoing work in these areas, please contact the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach.