WIIKWEMKOONG—The communities of Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territories have taken a major step in securing their “data sovereignty” with the arrival of a new data centre that will be capable of containing all of their data in a secure and home-based site.
“This data centre represents more than just technology—it is a symbol of our sovereignty, our strength, and our vision for the future,” said Wiikwemkoong Ogimaa Tim Ominika. “By investing in our own digital infrastructure, we are reclaiming the way our stories, knowledge, and data are protected and shared. It also opens doors for our youth to see themselves in the world of science, technology, and innovation. Wikwemikong is proud to lead by example in building a future where Anishinaabe voices are not only heard but powered by our own systems. This demonstrates our commitment to a Proud, Progressive, and Prosperous Wiikwemkoong.”
“This data centre is an example of the collaborative efforts of many here in Wiikwemkoong,” said Wiikwemkoong E’minzhaandang (CEO) Shelley Trudeau. “By working together, we’re not only securing our digital future, but we are also creating real economic growth and meaningful employment opportunities for our community in emerging and relevant sectors.”
“This project has been years in the making. It started with conversations about digital independence—about how we could better protect our community’s data, improve our infrastructure and prepare for a future where technology plays a central role in everything we do,” shared Michael McCormick, Wiikwemkoong chief technology officer. “We recognized early on that relying on outside systems left us vulnerable, not just in terms of security, but also in terms of ownership and access. This data centre is the result of careful planning, collaboration, and a shared vision of digital sovereignty. It’s a major milestone, but also just the beginning of what’s possible for Wikwemikong.”
The state-of-the-art data centre being installed at the Wiikwemkoong Administration Building marks a major milestone in the community’s journey toward data sovereignty, empowering Wiikwemkoong to take control of its own digital infrastructure and information systems. With this new facility, Wiikwemkoong enters “a new era of technological independence and innovation—one that reflects our commitment to protecting and managing our data, culture, and future on their own terms.”
The investment also highlights the growing importance of Anishinaabe voices in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) creating space for cutting-edge digital solutions in the community, they are also encouraging their youth and future leaders to explore careers in technology and innovation—fields where Anishinaabe people are making waves and redefining possibilities such as: stronger infrastructure, greater digital security and “data for the people, by the people.”
A data centre is a secure facility that is designed to house servers and computing systems. The centre is responsible for storing, managing, and accessing digital information. Data centres serve as the backbone of modern digital communication and services—powering essential functions like email, records management, websites.
For Wiikwemkoong, this would also mean the inclusion of digital-cultural and Anishinaabemowin archives. A data centre is much more than an advanced technological asset, notes a release on the arrival—“it is a symbol of sovereignty, opportunity, and cultural resilience.”
The release goes on to assert that “with this facility, our community is asserting our rights to full control of our digital resources, ensuring that our information is protected, locally managed, and governed by our own values and laws. It represents a significant step toward self-determination in the digital age.”
“Beyond safeguarding our data, the data centre will create new employment opportunities in fields such as IT, cybersecurity, and system maintenance, fostering skills development and economic growth. It also lays the foundation for long-term diversification through technology-driven industries, strengthening Wiikwemkoong’s future prosperity.”
“Most importantly, this infrastructure empowers us to digitally preserve and share Anishinaabe language, knowledge and traditions in a way that is secure, culturally appropriate, and community-led—ensuring that our heritage thrives for generations to come. Together, we are building a stronger, smarter, and more sovereign Wiikwemkoong.”
