Photo: The 11 victims from Sept 4, 2022.
By: Nicole Goldsworthy
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SASKTODAY.ca
James Smith Cree Nation is marking the fourth anniversary of the Sept. 4, 2022, attacks with memorial events dedicated to honouring those who lost their lives, recognizing survivors and supporting families still affected by the tragedy.
Community members are gathering throughout the day for a commemorative memorial and honouring ceremony focused on remembrance, healing and unity. The observance coincides with the opening of the Fort à la Corne Powwow, bringing together families, Elders, survivors and community members through prayer, ceremony, song and dance.
James Smith Cree Nation Chief Kirby Constant said the tragedy forever changed the Nation, its families and its people.
“Four years have passed, but there is no timeline for grief,” Constant said in a statement released Thursday. “Some wounds remain, some days are harder than others, and healing looks different for each of us.”
Constant said community members continue to draw strength from one another while carrying the memories of loved ones lost that day.
“What remains constant is the love we have for those who are no longer physically with us and the strength we continue to find in one another,” he said.
As community members gather for the memorial and powwow, Constant said traditional practices continue to play an important role in the healing journey.
“Our drums will sound, our people will dance, and our spirits will continue forward while carrying the memories of those we love,” he said.
The Chakastaypasin Band of the Cree Nation also issued a statement marking the anniversary, joining James Smith Cree Nation and residents of the nearby community of Peter Chapman in remembering the 11 people killed during the attacks.
The band honoured survivors and acknowledged the lasting impact the tragedy continues to have on families, loved ones and communities.
“Grief does not follow a timeline, and neither does healing,” the statement said. “As three nations, our families are deeply connected. When one of our communities hurts, that pain is felt by all of us.”
An honouring ceremony is scheduled for 4 p.m. at the JS Sports Grounds to recognize survivors, victims and families affected by the attacks. Organizers said survivors and victims’ families will receive star blankets and gifts during the ceremony.
Other events planned for the day include a fish fry at noon and supper at 3 p.m., both at the JS Pow-Wow Grounds. A smudging and fanning ceremony will follow the honouring ceremony.
On Sept. 4, 2022, attacks at multiple locations on James Smith Cree Nation and in Weldon, Sask., left 11 people dead and 17 others injured. The tragedy was among the deadliest mass killings in recent Canadian history and prompted an outpouring of support from across the country.
Four years later, community leaders say remembrance, cultural traditions and collective support remain central to the ongoing healing process.
“We remember the lives taken. We honour the survivors. We stand with the families. We continue to heal together,” the Chakastaypasin Band said in its statement.