Nipissing First Nation and Dokis First Nation are strengthening our longstanding relationship through a renewed commitment to work together to care for the lands, waters, animals, and natural resources that have sustained our people since time immemorial.
Gimaa Cathy Stevens of Nipissing and Gimaa Gerry Duquette of Dokis recently met at Frank’s Bay, a place of historic significance on Lake Nipissing near the mouth of the French River. Nipissing and Dokis have long travelled, harvested, gathered, and lived throughout these connected lands and waters. Our families are connected, our histories cross these territories, and our Nations share responsibilities to the lands and waters that surround us.
Nipissing First Nation and Dokis First Nation are establishing a joint committee to strengthen cooperation on shared priorities related to the stewardship and management of Lake Nipissing, the French River and the surrounding lands and waters. Through the committee, our Nations will bring together knowledge, people, and resources to address matters of shared concern and protect the natural world for future generations.
“The relationship between Nipissing and Dokis is much deeper than the boundaries people see on a map,” says Gimaa Stevens.
“Our families are connected, our people share history, and generations before us travelled and cared for these same lands and waters. Meeting together at Frank’s Bay reminds us that we have inherited a responsibility to continue that relationship.”
“By working together we are ensuring the histories and the interests of both our Nations are remembered and respected,” says Gimaa Duquette. “We can preserve these lands and waters for future generations while honouring our ancestors and strengthening our relationship as one Anishinaabe family – Ngo Dwe Waangizid Anishinaabe.”