Wiisokotatiwin (IRS)
About
The Wiisokotatiwin department serves as a central hub of support for the Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty #3 territory, specifically addressing the ongoing impacts of the residential school system. Our department’s name, Wiisokotatiwin, is an Anishinaabemowin term that translates to “Standing together and supporting one another”. This name reflects our dedication to creating a safe and supportive space for healing for residential school survivors, their families, and communities.
The Wiisokotatiwin department is dedicated to serving the 28 First Nation communities within the Treaty #3 territory. In addition to our community-based team, we maintain support staff in Kenora, Fort Frances, and Thunder Bay to offer administrative and logistical assistance.
Together, we strive to create a future of healing, cultural resilience, and empowerment for all Anishinaabe people in Treaty #3 territory.
In the late 1800’s, the Department of Indian Affairs and various churches took approximately 24,000 children from their homes to attend residential schools. The desired government outcome was to teach Aboriginal children to become self-sustaining members of the non-Aboriginal community.
Nearly 50% of the students that went to these Indian Residential Schools never returned to their homes.
Our Values
Our values are aimed at healing and empowering the Anishinaabe Nation by supporting survivors and their families, preserving history, and advocating for justice through collaborative efforts.
Support & Healing: we prioritize the well-being of residential school survivors, their families, and communities by offering culturally appropriate support services.
Preserving History: we ensure the accurate documentation and preservation of residential school history to promote truth and reconciliation.
Empowerment: we advocate for the rights and voices of the Anishinaabe Nation in seeking justice and pursuing healing.
Collaboration: we work collaboratively with Anishinaabe communities, the GCT3 leadership, and other organizations to deliver comprehensive support.
Our Role
Support claimants through application and hearing process, financial assistance for communities to hold their own
Sessions/events, sharing circles, healing circles, sweat lodges, presentations
Computer training, and elder and youth training
Our staff are fluent in the language and can send support services to the community