MESC Day 2024

Today, we celebrate a significant step in reclaiming education that reflects the strength, culture, and sovereignty of the Maskwacîs Cree Nations. The Maskwacîs Cree Declaration on Education and Maskwacîs Education Law lay the groundwork for an education system guided by the Wahkohtowin governance model — where relationships, interconnectedness, and respect for all beings come first.

Rights Holders in Education: As Maskwacîs Cree, education is our inherent right under Treaty No. 6, and this authority is upheld by the Maskwacîs Education Schools Commission (MESC). MESC is accountable to the Nations of Ermineskin, Louis Bull, Montana, and Samson, ensuring that the voice of every rights holder—our children, families, and community members—is honored in the education system.

Cree Culture and Language at the Core: With instruction in Cree and English, our schools keep Nehiyawewin alive, embedding Iyiniw Mamtohnehicikan (Cree ways of thinking) and Nehiyaw Pimatisiwin (Cree ways of living) in every lesson, supporting strong Cree identity and lifelong learning.

Self-Determination & Community Governance: In alignment with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the Wahkohtowin model empowers our community to lead. Through a Board of Governors representing our Nations, Elders, and parents, we ensure that education remains community-driven and aligned with our collective values.

Together, we are building an educational future for our children that reflects who we are and where we come from. This is our journey, guided by Wahkohtowin, for the strength and resilience of future generations.

Click the Link to Read the Maskwacîs Cree Declaration on Education and Maskwacîs Education Law: 
https://www.maskwacised.ca/about/key-mesc-documents