Niiwin Wendaanimok Four Winds Partnership

Who we are

Niiwin Wendaanimok

The Niiwin Wendaanimok (Four Winds) Partnership is an Indigenous-owned and operated corporation dedicated to providing construction, contracting, and environmental monitoring services in Treaty 3 territory. With a mandate to employ Anishinaabe workers and assets in construction and development projects, the Partnership is committed to rebuilding our economy, being a major part of the regional economy and ensuring Anishinaabe laws and voices are respected throughout development processes within Anishinaabe territory.

The Niiwin Wendaanimok Partnership is comprised of representatives and experts from four Nations—Wauzhushk Onigum Nation, Washagamis Bay First Nation, Shoal Lake 40 First Nation and Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation.

brief history

four Nations

The Niiwin Wendaanimok Partnership formed in October 2018 when the Nations of Wauzhushk Onigum, Washagamis Bay, Shoal Lake 40, and Niisaachewan signed a Unity Agreement to coordinate their shared experiences, concerns, and interests as they relate to the Twinning of the Highway 17 between the Manitoba/Ontario border and Kenora.

Since May 2019, the Niiwin Wendaanimok has undertaken the Anishinaabe Aki Kakendamowin (AAK), referring to the documentation of the knowledge and practices associated with the care and protection for the lands, skies, soils,
and waters.

This knowledge has been used to identify and assess potential impacts of Phase 1 of the Project through a new process called the Harmonized Impact Assessment (HIA). On February 5th, 2020, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the Partnership and the Government of Ontario. Through this document and ceremony, participating governments confirmed their relationship under Manito Aki Inakonigaawin and committed to a respectful, collaborative working relationship. This MOU will guide the process in the sprit of collaboration and cooperation.

our Logo

About our Logo

Our logo, created by Terry Greene from Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation, represents the vision of the Niiwin Wendaanimok Partnership, deeply rooted in the Anishinaabe identity and Treaty rights. When asked to describe his logo, Terry said, “Niiwin Wendaanimok means the Wind comes from four directions. The Highway is from West to East, so I moved the medicine wheel colours to reflect that. I made the road to symbolize our Anishinaabe path (red road). The smaller circle represents Treaty 3, with its sunrise, trees, and water. The feathers represent the four winds, the four directions, and the four communities.”

“To the East is Wauzhushk Onigum, to the South is Washagamis Bay, to the West is Shoal Lake 40, and to the North is Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation. This logo represents acknowledgement of the Memegwesiwag (the Little People) who will be disturbed as part of this highway, and an acknowledgement of Burial Grounds, Sacred Sites, and Ceremonial Grounds that should be protected. Also, when we pray, we ask the Creator to send helping spirits from the four directions to come help us. Waabinong (the East), Zhaawanong (the South), Epangishmok (the West), and Kiiwedinong (the North).”

“This logo is a reminder that we will continue to seek guidance, take our time, and do things right so we can honour who we are as Anishinaabe Peoples.”

Who we are