Prince Albert National Park of Canada

Aboriginal Affairs Program

The park’s cultural heritage includes over 350 known archaeological sites, the oldest of which dates back at least 7500 years. Historically, Dene from the North, Cree from the east and Nakoda from the South crossed paths in this region in search of new territory and trade links. Eventually, it was mainly Woodland Cree who settled in the area of the present-day national park with the Plains Cree settling to the south and west.

Aboriginal Artists Fair.
© Parks Canada

Today the park celebrates the historical presence and contributions of First Nations and Metis peoples. Creation of an Aboriginal Affairs section, continued efforts of the park’s Aboriginal Advisory Group and the creative work of the Heritage Presentation staff have resulted in a number of working partnerships, programs and initiatives with Aboriginal groups.

Objectives of the Aboriginal Affairs program:

• establish strong working relationships with Aboriginal communities and organizations
• promote Aboriginal history and culture within the park and surrounding region
• provide Aboriginal people equal opportunity for employment,
• assist in sustainable economic opportunities
• build partnerships in park initiatives and decision-making

National Aboriginal Day in Prince Albert National Park.
© Parks Canada

Culture and History

The park continues to work with the Montreal Lake Cree Nation under a draft Memorandum of Understanding to promote awareness of the rich history and culture of the Woodland Cree and to increase economic opportunities.

The park works closely with Indigenous communities to identify, protect and maintain archaeological, traditional, ceremonial sites and burial grounds.

Celebrating Aboriginal Culture

Aboriginal Artists Fair.
© Parks Canada

Join us each year as we celebrate Aboriginal culture and heritage at:

• National Aboriginal Day
• Canada Day
• The Aboriginal Artist’s Fair
• The Children’s Festival

Visit the Aboriginal Exhibit at the Nature Centre, a dynamic, interactive display. Learn about Indigenous culture at a heritage presentation interpretive event.

Employment and Economic Opportunities

• Park staff participates at various career symposiums and job fairs for Aboriginal youth, to promote careers with Parks Canada.
• The park contracts Aboriginal people for cultural heritage presentation, and co-ordination of special events and activities promoting Aboriginal heritage.
• The park strives to create apprenticeship opportunities for Aboriginal people.
• The park partners with Aboriginal communities, organizations and individuals in pursuing self-sustaining economic opportunities within the Paspiwin Cultural Heritage site.