Aroland First Nation

Aroland First Nation is linguistically and culturally rich, with many community members speaking Ojibwe, Oji-Cree, and Cree. Efforts to revitalize and sustain these languages are ongoing, supported by local programs and Elder involvement.

Key cultural highlights:

• Language programs in schools and community centers focus on Ojibwe, Oji-Cree, and Cree.
• Elders share traditional knowledge through storytelling, ceremonies, and seasonal teachings.
• Land-based learning connects youth to cultural practices like trapping, canoe-building, and medicine gathering.
• Annual events such as drum socials and powwows strengthen community bonds.
• Intergenerational learning ensures traditions and values are passed down respectfully and sustainably.
• Cultural identity in Aroland remains strong—deeply connected to the land, language, and legacy of its people.

Aroland First Nation is part of Treaty 9, signed in the early 1900s. Many community members are descendants of trappers and laborers who worked with the Hudson’s Bay Company and Canadian National Railway. The community’s historical experience of displacement and economic marginalization informs its modern advocacy for resource sovereignty and environmental protection.

Aroland First Nation: A Timeline of Treaty and Historical Milestones

• Pre-1900s
  Ancestral lands traditionally used by Ojibwe, Oji-Cree, and Cree families for hunting, fishing, and seasonal movement.
• 1905–1906: Treaty 9 Signed
  The Crown and First Nations (including Aroland’s ancestors) sign Treaty 9.
  Oral accounts suggest the spoken promises differed from the written terms.
• 1929–30: Treaty 9 Extended
  Additional signings cover more territory. The treaty remains central to ongoing rights discussions.
• 1940s–1960s: Logging and Labour Migration
  Families relocate to the Aroland area for logging work, especially around the Arrow Land and Logging Company.
• 1970s: Aroland First Nation Formally Recognized
  The community gains status under the Indian Act. The name “Aroland” comes from the historic lumber company.
• 2000s–Present: Land Rights and Stewardship
  Aroland plays an active role in negotiations, consultation, and environmental monitoring—especially around Ring of Fire development.

Aroland is governed by a Chief and Council and is a member of Matawa First Nations and the Nishnawbe Aski Nation. The community has emphasized self-determination through strategic partnerships and increased engagement in natural resource planning.

Joint Ventures (JVs) and Economic Development

Aroland First Nation is deeply engaged in shaping the economic landscape of Northern Ontario. It is a stakeholder in the development of infrastructure and policy surrounding the Ring of Fire.

Aroland First Nation Key Initiatives:

• JV with Greenstone Gold Mines: Environmental and workforce partnerships.
• Aroland Construction Ltd.: Local development and contracting business.
• Forest Management Agreements: Includes co-management and harvest planning with the Province of Ontario.
• Energy and Broadband Projects: Bringing renewable energy and high-speed internet to Aroland homes and facilities.

Aroland participates in Environmental Assessments (EAs) and regularly submits interventions on proposed developments that may affect the land, water, or wildlife corridors. The community has voiced concern about cumulative impacts and has advocated for Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC).

Located within boreal forest zones, Aroland sits close to the Little Jackfish River system. Its territory supports moose, bear, migratory birds, and fish species vital to subsistence and cultural practice.

• Forest Stewardship: Aroland is co-managing several Forest Management Units.
• Monitoring: Community-led water and wildlife monitoring projects.
• Cultural Landscapes: Sacred sites and traplines are mapped and protected.

• Chief Dorothy Towedo: Known for her leadership on infrastructure and education initiatives.
• Elder Joe Meshake: A respected knowledge keeper and storyteller.

• Railway Legacy: The name “Aroland” comes from the Arrow Land and Logging Company, which built a major rail spur and logging operation in the early 1900s.
• Cultural Gatherings: Hosts seasonal Pow Wows that bring together Matawa communities.
• Community Radio: Aroland operates its own local radio programming, CKTE-FM 89.9 FM, with news and language segments.