Kashechewan First Nation

Kashechewan map

Kashechewan First Nation is a Cree First Nation band government located near the mouth of the Albany River on the west coast of James Bay in Northern Ontario, Canada. The community is approximately 450 kilometers north of Timmins.

History

The Kashechewan First Nation was established in the early 20th century. The community has faced numerous challenges, including issues related to water quality, housing, and health services. In 2005, Kashechewan gained national attention due to a water crisis that led to the evacuation of the community.

Geography

Kashechewan is situated in the Kenora District of Northern Ontario. The community is located on the northern shore of the Albany River, near its confluence with James Bay. The area is characterized by its remote and rugged terrain, with a subarctic climate.

Demographics

As of the most recent census, the population of Kashechewan First Nation is approximately 1,900 people. The majority of the residents are members of the Cree Nation and speak Cree as their first language, with English being widely spoken as well.

Governance

The Kashechewan First Nation is governed by a Chief and Council, elected by the community members. The band government is responsible for local administration, including health services, education, and infrastructure.

Economy

The economy of Kashechewan is primarily based on traditional activities such as hunting, fishing, and trapping. There are also employment opportunities in local administration, education, and health services. The community faces economic challenges due to its remote location and limited access to markets.

Health and Education

Kashechewan has a health center that provides basic medical services to the community. More complex medical needs often require transportation to larger centers such as Timmins or Moose Factory. The community also has a primary school and a high school, with some students attending secondary education in other communities.

Water Crisis

In 2005, Kashechewan experienced a severe water crisis when high levels of E. coli bacteria were found in the community's water supply. This led to a state of emergency and the evacuation of many residents. The crisis highlighted the ongoing issues with water quality and infrastructure in many First Nations communities across Canada.

Related Pages

• Cree
• James Bay
• Albany River
• Timmins, Ontario
• Moose Factory, Ontario
• Kenora District