Cody Anderson, Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation

“I’d like to see Guardians protecting what our nation has defined as sacred and important to us.”

Meet Cody Anderson, who has been a fundamental part of the development of the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation (NCN) Guardians Program. Located 70 miles west of Thompson, Manitoba, NCN is home to crystal clear lakes, Boreal Forest, and culturally important lands that are rich in animals and plants. Since 2015, he has helped gather information from knowledge keepers, led discussions about Cree-led conservation efforts, and participated in land use planning and mapping. “We’re working hard to bring the vision to reality,” he said. Cody’s expertise in GIS and technology are just one of the many ways he’s assisted the Nation’s land use planning initiative —but as he would say, “I’m not just a computer guy!” 

Despite broad support from the community, the Guardian’s program has also faced some obstacles —- like a lack of sustained funding. Other Guardians programs also face similar issues and inconsistent funding, which is why long-term and sustained federal investment is vital. But Cody, among others, aren’t giving up. Cody recognizes the huge value in Guardians, noting how they can help bring people back to the land. Organizing the program, he says, “It’s work, but you have to do it with a positive attitude!”

Alongside his work with the nation, Cody has been working on a not-so-small side project: developing a program that would give Guardians better access to land use planning and mapping tools, and help streamline job data. As Cody himself said, “Some coding wizardry required” in building the program. But once complete, it will give Indigenous Nations more data sovereignty and build capacity within communities that may not have access to more internet-intensive software. It will also help Guardians start mapping locations that are important in their traditional territories, for activities like fishing, hunting and conservation.  Incredible work, and we can’t wait to see it in action! 

Learn more about Cody’s work in his video