Our story, our pride
Sparrow Hawk Developments symbolizes the enduring spirit and aspirations of the Peepeekisis Cree Nation, committed to creating a prosperous and sustainable future.
About Sparrow Hawk Developments
Sparrow Hawk Developments, the economic development arm of Peepeekisis Cree Nation, embodies a rich history and a promising future.
Located in Southern Saskatchewan’s picturesque Qu’Appelle Valley, our corporation represents the strength and unity of over 3,000 members.
The Cree word Peepeekisis (ᐲᐦᐲᑭᓰᐢ pîhpîkisîs) means Sparrow Hawk in English
Peepeekisis First Nation #81 (PCN) is a Cree First Nation located 113 km northeast of Regina and 40 km northeast of Fort Qu’Appelle, Saskatchewan.
The First Nation is part of both the File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council and FSIN, covering 11,257.8 hectares, with an additional share in the 37.1 hectares of the Treaty 4 Reserve Grounds of Fort Qu’Appelle. Chief Canahhachapew (Making Ready the Bow) signed Treaty 4 on September 21, 1874.
The community of PCN has persevered through a complex, trying history, emerging on the other side steeled in their resolve to create a prosperous, bright future for its membership, more than 3,000 people strong.
The Journey of Peepeekisis Nation
Our nation has a complex history.
It was the site of the radical social experiment, the “File Hills Colony”, which had far-ranging impacts still evident today.
1896
The “File Hills Colony” Experiment
W.M. Graham, c. 1910, was the organizing force behind the File Hills Colony.
Established in 1896, this experiment aimed to integrate Aboriginal Peoples into colonial farming lifestyles, significantly altering the community.
Early 1900s
Loss and transformation
Women of the File Hills Colony, 1907
Substantial land was taken from the original band members and reallocated to new graduates from residential schools. This process not only stripped the original members of their ancestral lands but also deeply eroded their cultural identity.
1915 and beyond
A community’s struggle
Cree Indian Encampment at Regina Exhibition, 1923
Despite seeming success by 1915, the Colony hid deep societal issues, leading to long-standing cultural and social divisions.
1955 – 2022
Legal milestones
Sara Poitras speaks at the news conference where the Canadian Government apologized to the Peepeekisis Cree Nation
Starting with legal actions in 1955, the community's fight for rights led to a landmark settlement with Canada in 2020.
In September 2022, the Indigenous minister, Marc Miller, gave a formal apology to Peepeekisis Cree Nation for the government’s role in allowing the File Hills Farm Colony Experiment to occur.
Delve deeper into our story
For a comprehensive understanding of Peepeekisis Nation's rich history, we offer the following downloadable documents.
These resources offer an in-depth exploration of the events and milestones that have shaped our community, providing a deeper context to our journey.
Our mission drives us forward
To protect the legacy and ensure the social and economic vitality of the people and community of Peepeekisis Cree Nation.
Profits from our investments improve infrastructure, create jobs, and support band membership.
Our actions are guided by our core values
These principles are the foundation of our commitment to our community and partners.
Respect
Accountability
Transparency
Perseverance
Steered by visionary leadership
Our Board of Directors, led by Chair Chris Sicotte and including key members from Peepeekisis Cree Nation, ensures that every investment aligns with our vision and values. Their diverse experience and dedication are pivotal to our success.
Chris Sicotte
Board Chair
Lorraine Bellegarde
PCN Band Member
Tricia Nichols
PCN Band Member
Nathan Gettle
PCN Band Member
Brad Calihoo
Paul Cawood
Our team is led by
Alex Fallon
President & CEO
With more than two decades of business and economic development experience spanning Canada, the United Kingdom, and Japan, Alex brings a worldly perspective and a belief in the importance of economic reconciliation to his role as President & CEO.