Request for Patience and Support Following Tragic Loss in Wemindji – Update

(Wemindji, Eeyou Istchee – March 16, 2018) – Yesterday morning the Cree Nation of Wemindji, lost an eight-year-old girl who was a vibrant and precious member of the community. The days ahead will be difficult for the community and more so for her immediate family who have suffered this very tragic loss.

The Cree Nation of Wemindji is working closely with the Cree Board of Health of Social Services to make sure that counseling services are available to community members. The community leadership would like to thank the first responders from Wemindji and the officers of the Wemindji detachment for their diligence in these difficult times.

A service was held yesterday evening where community members, clergy and community representatives came together to comfort one another and comfort the family. It is this commitment to one another and compassion that defines us as a people and will help us get through these very difficult times.

The investigation is ongoing and evidence is still being collected and processed, however formal charges have been laid in relation to the loss of this young girl. The accused is expected to be arraigned in Amos in coming days. As it is still a delicate time for the victim’s family, the community and the ongoing nature of the investigation, Cree Nation of Wemindji and Cree Nation Government officials will be refraining from issuing further public statements or granting interviews.

It is important that we do everything we can to ensure that our children know that despite this tragic isolated incident, they are safe, cherished and loved.

Grand Chief Dr. Abel Bosum

Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee)

Cree Nation Government

Chief Christina Gilpin

Cree Nation of Wemindji