Indigenous land rights and Indigenous land use planning: Exploring the relevance and significance to Wasagamack First Nation, northern Manitoba, Canada

Abstract

To document the community priorities and the role of Indigenous land use planning for the Mino Bimaadiziwin of Wasagamack First Nation, Manitoba, this research analyzed the land use biographies of 49 harvesters and video interviews of 10 community members. The geographic information system (GIS) analysis of the land use shows a vast expanse of traditional territory used for sustenance activities - fishing, trapping, hunting, gathering as well as cultural ceremonies and habitation. Video interviews reveal community members’ desire to protect their territory for community healing, cultural and language revival, and community economic development. Indigenous land use planning is a means to fulfill community priorities to achieve Mino Bimaadiziwin of Wasagamack First Nation. The research concludes the need for fundamental changes in governments’ policies and programs to promote Indigenous land use planning and to ensure Indigenous rights to their traditional territories to enable Indigenous reconciliation and self-determination.