Sovereignty lies in economic development. That from Kahkewistahaw First Nation Chief Evan Taypotat at a ground-breaking ceremony in Saskatoon. The First Nation south south of Yorkton bought about 40 acres of land directly south of the John G. Diefenbaker International Airport 3 years ago, and now plans are underway for the first phase of development. The location is fitting because Kahkewistahaw in Cree means ‘he who flies around’.

Chief Taypotat says they aren’t waiting for a government handout, they are making their own future. The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations will be moving to Kahkewistahaw Landing. The FSIN building is part of phase 1 with construction to begin next spring and Chief Bobby Cameron hopes they will be able to move in next fall.

On the First Nation’s website, some other options listed include a gas station and convenience store, a hotel and convention centre, office and retail space, recreational and medical facilities and restaurants.

Chief Cameron says when talking about a treaty-based economy and being partners in all sectors, this 4 acre development is an example of that. He adds, “After every one of us here today leave this world, our children’s children will be benefiting off of this piece of land. This is what our elders have wanted us to continue to work towards.”