It is Visible.
In the heart of downtown Winnipeg, the former Hudson’s Bay Building is being reborn under First Nations leadership. Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn—meaning “It is Visible” in Anishinaabemowin is a living symbol of reclamation, reconciliation, and renewal.
Reconciliation in Action
A place for our people: A legacy for all
Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn will stand as a beacon of hope and pride showcasing First Nation innovation, leadership, and economic strength. The project reflects a vision where cultural identity, sustainability, and opportunity unite in one shared space.
Key Pillars:
Housing and Healing
Affordable and assisted-living units for First Nation citizens and Elders.
Culture and Community
Gathering spaces, language learning, and ceremonial areas.
Economic Renewal
Commercial spaces and social enterprise opportunities to sustain future generations.
Respecting the past: Building for the next seven generations
Architects and designers have embraced the building’s historic character while integrating Indigenous artistry and sustainable innovation. The structure will feature natural light, communal atriums, language signage, and art that reflect the Anishinaabe and Dakota.
Creating opportunity and visibility for our Nations
Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn is transforming lives. Through Miikahnah Connect, hundreds of Indigenous workers have gained meaningful employment and training in the skilled trades. Partnerships with educational institutions and industry are opening doors for youth to build lasting careers.
As the project grows, so will the opportunities for First Nations artists, entrepreneurs, and organizations to contribute their gifts to this shared space.
From colonial commerce to prosperity of our Nation
For more than 300 years, the Hudson’s Bay Company profited from the trade networks built by First Nations peoples. Today, the transfer of this building to First Nations ownership represents a historic shift and empowerment.
Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn embodies the principle that reconciliation must be visible not only in words, but in action, investment, and shared success.
Building the future one story at a time
Construction began in 2024, led by PCL Construction with partnerships across governments, industry, and Indigenous organizations. Each milestone represents collaboration, perseverance, and the growing strength of First Nations leadership in major infrastructure projects.
Quick Facts:
Rooted in the teachings of our Nations
This project rises from Treaty One Territory, home of the Anishinaabe and Dakota Nations. The transformation honours the ancestors who traded and travelled this land for centuries and reclaims a space long associated with the colonization of our people.
Ceremonies, Elders’ guidance, and cultural protocols continue to shape every stage of construction and design ensuring Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn grows in balance with our teachings and responsibilities to the land.
“This building is a statement that our people are still here, and our vision is stronger than ever.” – Grand Chief Jerry Daniels
Stay connected as the vision becomes visible
Follow Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn’s progress and celebrate the moments that are reshaping our shared future. Together, we are building something our ancestors could only dream of—a future rooted in culture, strength, and visibility.
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