Treaty One Nations and Winnipeg Airports Authority Unveil Permanent Treaty One Land Welcoming Signage at YWG

New installation welcomes travelers to Treaty One Territory at Manitoba’s main gateway

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB, April 14, 2026 – Treaty One Nations and Winnipeg Airports Authority (WAA) today unveiled new permanent Treaty One Land Acknowledgement signage at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport.

Installed in the Arrivals Hall above the airport’s iconic Hug Rug, this installation will be seen by more than 4.3 million travellers each year, making it one of the most visible recognitions of Treaty One Territory in the province.

“This is long overdue—today is about making sure that when people arrive here, they know whose land they are on,” stated Chief Gordon BlueSky, Chairperson of Treaty One Nations. “For many, this airport is their first step onto our territory—this installation ensures they are welcomed with recognition, respect, and an understanding of the Treaty that guides how we share this land.”

The installation features a trilingual message in Anishinaabemowin, English, and French, reflecting the First Peoples of this region while welcoming all who land to live, work, or visit on Treaty One Territory. The message also affirms the meaning of the Treaty relationship and the history behind it.

The installation also features original artwork by First Nation artist Grace Swain of Swan Lake First Nation, whose Woodland-style design brings forward traditional teachings and symbolism. The artwork reflects the connection between the land, the people, and the Seven First Nations of Treaty One, welcoming visitors in a way that carries both meaning and intention.

This initiative also reflects WAA’s commitments outlined in its 2023–2027 Strategic Plan, which emphasizes reconciliation, inclusivity, and connecting communities. As Manitoba’s gateway to the world, the airport plays a key role in how visitors experience this region from the moment they arrive.

“We are grateful to Treaty One Nations for their partnership in bringing this to life,” said Nick Hays, President & CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority. “As the place where many people first arrive in Manitoba, it is important that we clearly acknowledge the land we are on. This installation reflects our responsibility to ensure our spaces do so in a way that is clear, visible, and lasting.”

The unveiling comes as Treaty One Nations continues to advance visibility and education around Treaty No. 1 across major public spaces.

Quick Facts

• The signage is located in the Arrivals Hall above the Hug Rug
• Treaty No. 1 was signed on August 3, 1871, at Lower Fort Garry
• The seven Nations of Treaty One are: Brokenhead Ojibway Nation, Long Plain First Nation, Peguis First Nation, Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation, Sagkeeng First Nation, Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation, and Swan Lake First Nation
• Treaty One Nations represents seven First Nations in southern Manitoba
• Winnipeg Richardson International Airport serves more than 4.3 million passengers through YWG annually

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Vic Savino
Director of Communications, Treaty One Nations
Email: vsavino@treaty1.ca | Cell: 204-881-4512

Kerilee Falloon
Director, Communications and Marketing
Winnipeg Airports Authority Inc.
Email: kfalloon@waa.ca | Phone: 204-987-1522