Community and Civic

Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn

Southern Chiefs Organization

Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn (‘It is visible’): A Public Statement of Reconciliation

Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn or ‘It is visible’ is a public statement of reconciliation.

The Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO) is transforming the historic Hudson’s Bay Company Building in downtown Winnipeg. The revitalization of the historic retail space into a multi-use building will revive downtown Winnipeg and exemplifies both economic and social reconciliation.

The project features over 300 affordable residential units and culturally appropriate Assisted Living for elders aging in place. Each unit will have a view out of the historic façade or into the newly imagined atrium, hosting unique designs inspired by all 34 SCO First Nation communities.

In addition to the residential units, several of economic opportunities will be hosted in the space including a First Nations museum and gallery and a reimaging of the iconic Paddlewheel Restaurant.

Other uses include a centralized office space for SCO and their communities, culturally appropriate childcare and education, a rooftop garden for occupants of the building and a health and wellness centre that celebrates both western and traditional medicine and treatments.

The newly renovated building will also include a Governance House for the 34 Chiefs of the southern First Nations.

The project will completely reimagine the historic Hudson’s Bay Company building through an Indigenous lens.