Inawendiwin Chigaanawendamaang
Looking after our families
What is Inawendiwin Chigaanawendamaang?
Inawendiwin Chigaanawendamaang, translated as “looking after our families,” is the community-led process through which Animakee Wa Zhing is reclaiming and exercising its inherent jurisdiction and responsibility to care for children and families according to Anishinaabe Onakoniikewin.
This responsibility has always existed. While colonial child welfare systems disrupted how children were cared for, they did not remove the community’s laws, teachings, or obligations. Inawendiwin Chigaanawendamaang reflects a return to those responsibilities in a way that is guided by community voices, cultural teachings, and lived experience.
Why this process matters
For generations, Animakee Wa Zhing children were impacted by residential schools, the Sixties Scoop, and ongoing provincial child welfare systems. These systems separated children from their families, language, culture, and community, causing lasting harm.
Inawendiwin Chigaanawendamaang exists to:
- Keep children connected to family, community, culture, and identity
- Shift from crisis-driven intervention to prevention, care, and belonging
- Ensure decisions about children are made by the community, for the community
Federal legislation (Bill C-92) creates space for this work, but the direction, pace, and meaning of the process are determined by Animakee Wa Zhing itself.
Programs and Services
Family Advocacy services support families and the Nation in child welfare matters. This role acts as a key point of contact between Animakee Wa Zhing and child welfare agencies, ensuring the rights of children and family members are upheld.
Law Development
While the law takes shape, Animakee Wa Zhing is strengthening supports that make a difference today. Funding made available through Canadian Human Rights Tribunal decisions and Bill C-92 has allowed the community to build programs and services that support children, youth, and families in immediate need.