Pinesiw Maskihkiy Totem

About Us

Pinesiw Maskihkiy Totem / Binesi Mashkiki Doodem – meaning Thunderbird Medicine Clan in Ininimowin and Anishinaabemowin is a growing network of Indigenous guardians around Lake Winnipeg working together to protect and restore the health of our lands and waters.

We are currently made up of guardians and monitoring programs from Misipawistik Cree Nation, Poplar River First Nation, Sagkeeng First Nation, Brokenhead Ojibway Nation, and Peguis First Nation.

Together, we monitor shorelines, lead restoration projects, and collaborate with Land Users, Elders and Knowledge Carriers to develop Indigenous Knowledge Indicators to reflect the health and needs of the lake.

Our Name

We received the name, Pinesiw Maskihkiy Totem, in ceremony led by Rob Apetagon from Norway House Cree Nation. Our name speaks to our role as guardians: preparing the way for the Thunderbirds to return and renew the waters.

At the heart of our name, is a small but mighty teacher: the mosquito.

The mosquito feels the earliest changes in water and weather, it depends on clean, living waters for its life cycle. In this way, the mosquito teaches us that health of even the smallest insect is tied to the health of the entire lake. The mosquito reminds us that all beings – no matter how big or small – have an important purpose. Where we are united in purpose we cannot be ignored.

The mosquito represents every guardian and water protector who prepares the way for the Thunderbird to come. Just as the mosquito arrives before the rains, the guardians’ work prepares the waters for renewal. Through their monitoring, restoration and protection, guardians prepare the path for healing and to bring balance to the lake. 

Artist Background

Jackie Traverse who beautifully brought our name to life in this painting for our logo is an Anishinaabe artist from Lake St. Martin First Nation, based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Her work spans painting, sculpture and public art, and is widely recognized for its bold visual storytelling and deep cultural significance.

Jackie’s art is rooted in her identity as an Anishinaabe woman and often speaks to themes of love, loss, resistance, and the enduring strength of Indigenous women.