An Indigenous group, Aseniwuche Winewak, is calling on Parks Canada to grant its members increased access to Jasper National Park in western Alberta. They are requesting limited hunting rights and involvement in the co-management of the park. The group states that they were evicted from the park when it was created and are seeking the restoration of their access.
Parks Canada recently held a ceremony in the park to commemorate the re-establishment of an ancient treaty between the Simpcw and Stoney First Nations. This treaty allows the two nations to share the park’s resources. However, the Aseniwuche Winewak feel that they have been left out of these discussions and that their claim to historic ties is just as strong as the recognized First Nations.
The band’s president, David MacPhee, highlights the importance of the land and waters of the park to their culture and way of life. Despite being recognized federally and provincially, the group was not included in the recent agreement with Parks Canada and feels overlooked in the park’s management and decision-making processes.
Jasper National Park superintendent Alan Fehr denies that the Aseniwuche Winewak were ignored and states that the recent ceremony was initiated by the Simpcw and Stoney First Nations. Fehr emphasizes that more talks will be held with Indigenous groups regarding all park activities, including limited hunts.
As the discussions continue, it is essential to ensure that the voices and interests of all Indigenous groups are taken into consideration. Achieving reconciliation requires recognizing and addressing historic injustices and ensuring equitable representation in park management. The Aseniwuche Winewak deserve a seat at the table and an opportunity to participate in the decision-making processes that affect their access to and connection with their ancestral lands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Aseniwuche Winewak?
A: Aseniwuche Winewak is an Indigenous band located in western Alberta, recognized at both the federal and provincial levels. They have historic ties to Jasper National Park and are seeking increased access to the park’s resources.
Q: Why does Aseniwuche Winewak want increased access to Jasper National Park?
A: The band was evicted from the park when it was created and is now advocating for the restoration of their access to the park. They believe their claim to historic ties is just as strong as the recognized First Nations’ ties, and they want to be involved in the co-management of the park.
Q: What happened during the recent ceremony in the park?
A: The ceremony celebrated the re-establishment of an ancient treaty between the Simpcw and Stoney First Nations. However, the Aseniwuche Winewak feel that they were left out of these discussions and were not included in the agreement with Parks Canada.
Q: How is Parks Canada responding to the request for increased access?
A: Parks Canada superintendent Alan Fehr states that more talks will be held with Indigenous groups regarding all park activities, including limited hunts. Fehr affirms that Aseniwuche Winewak are welcome to participate in these discussions.