Chief Pauline Drake has announced that much of Whitewater Lake First Nation has been destroyed by recent wildfires.
THUNDER BAY – Whitewater Lake First Nation has been devastated by wildfires.
On Sunday, Nishnawbe Aski Nation released a statement from Chief Pauline Drake announcing the devastation of her community.
“Much of the community has been destroyed. Homes, personal belongings, and vital community infrastructure have been lost.
The lands that hold the graves of ancestors and recently departed family members have also been impacted, deepening the grief felt by community members,” Drake said in the statement.
The news was confirmed at 5 p.m. on Saturday when aerial photos became available.
“While no words can adequately express the magnitude of this loss, the Whitewater Lake community remains steadfast in its identity and strength.
As resilient Anishinaabe people, community members will draw upon the wisdom, courage, and enduring spirit of their ancestors to guide them through this difficult time and toward rebuilding,” the chief said.
Chief Drake and her community are deeply sorry for all the families, people and communities suffering and experiencing tragic loss during this difficult time.
These wildfires have affected not only First Nation communities but also tourist outfitters and personal camps, the statment reads.
“We as people need to stand together in a unified way and call upon the Governments of Ontario and Canada to stand with everyone in the recovery and rebuilding process.
We also ask that governments publicly acknowledge the profound loss, trauma, and displacement being experienced by all suffering losses at this time.”