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CANADIAN INDUSTRY ONLINE - OCTOBER 2014
A
T THE HELM
of Fort William
First Nation in Thunder Bay,
Chief Georjann Morriseau envisions “a
community that will thrive for the
future generations.” The Chief, Coun-
cil and staff of FWFN have been work-
ing to develop an economic develop-
ment strategy that will support this
vision, through industry partnerships,
entrepreneurialism, and sustainable
business ventures.
CEO Michael Hardy said of the
FWFN vision: “Since joining the Fort
William First Nation team I have
participated in many discussions, at
Council meetings, staff meetings and
with individual members. The mes-
sage that I have heard is that we must
all work together to ensure that chil-
dren are provided with a brighter fu-
ture.” Much of the focus of FWFN has
been geared towards new economic
opportunities, and the community at
large is committed to unified goals.
“
Our vision is to make FWFN
as self-sufficient as possible, and give
our community a bright future,” Chief
Morriseau explains.
MANAGEMENT
Fort William First Nation has
several divisions that contribute to the
smooth operation of the community
including a housing department, com-
munications division, health services,
finance and human resources, educa-
tion, culture and recreation and other
important departments.
Chief and Council of FWFN meet
four times per month, and integrate is-
sues of First Nation members into dis-
cussions.
Treaty implementation is based
on 10 principles, which ultimately
guide all activities of the FWFN. The
Robinson Treaty for the Lake Superior
region, commonly called Robinson Su-
perior Treaty, was entered into agree-
ment on September 7, 1850, at Sault
Ste. Marie, Ontario between Ojibwa
Chiefs inhabiting the Northern Shore
of Lake Superior from Pigeon River
to Batchawana Bay, and The Crown,
represented by a delegation headed by
William Benjamin Robinson. It is reg-
istered as the Crown Treaty Number
60.
Fort William First Nation is one of
FORT WILLIAM FIRST NATION
know our own position here with our la-
bour, land, and equipment. We have land open for part-
to be open about how it will benefit us.”
