The contemporary occupation of Nitaskinan by the Nehirowisiwok of Wemotaci
This article explores the contemporary relationship of the Nehirowisiwok with Nitaskinan, their ancestral lands. Interviews with around thirty members of the community of Wemotaci reveal how they occupy and engage with the land while undertaking a wide variety of activities. These activities can be grouped according to three principal themes: kapeciwin, life in camp and on the land; tipahiskan, activities associated with managing the land; and atoskewin, harvesting animals and plants. Together, these activities enable the Nehirowisiwok to maintain their language and knowledge, as well as to continue nehirowisi pimatisiwin, their way of life. This study demonstrates that the occupation of Nitaskinan is not simply a historical fact, but that it is an ongoing practice that remains at the heart of the life and identity of the Nehirowisiwok. Despite changes happening around them, caused by an ever-expanding Euro-canadian presence, the Nehirowisiwok of Wemotaci continue to occupy and engage with Nitaksinan, in a way that is both traditional and contemporary.