Wekweti, Northwest Territories

Nov 20

The flag of Wekweètì, a small community in the Northwest Territories of Canada, is a striking representation of the local landscape, culture, and identity. Designed with symbolic elements that reflect the traditions and natural environment of the Dechi Laot’i First Nations, the flag serves as a visual representation of the community’s heritage and values.

The flag follows a Canadian pale design. The outer stripes are dark blue, while the central stripe is white. This color scheme is significant, as blue often represents water and the sky, elements that are integral to life in Wekweètì, while white symbolizes snow and ice, which dominate the landscape for much of the year. The central white stripe provides a neutral background that highlights the emblem at the heart of the flag.

Positioned prominently in the center is a circular badge that serves as the focal point of the flag. This badge features a black ring that encircles the design, with white lettering at the top and bottom. The words “Dechi Laot’i First Nations” are inscribed at the top, indicating the community’s affiliation with this Indigenous group, while “Wekweètì, NWT” appears at the bottom, situating the flag within its geographic and political context.

Within the circular badge, a picturesque landscape scene encapsulates the essence of Wekweètì’s natural surroundings. A wolf and a caribou stand facing each other, representing key elements of the region's wildlife and the traditional way of life for the Dechi Laot’i people. The wolf is a revered animal in many Indigenous cultures, often symbolizing strength, intelligence, and a deep connection to the land. The caribou is equally significant, as it has long been a primary resource for the community, providing food, clothing, and tools.

The animals stand on a field that borders a lake, reinforcing the importance of water in the community’s daily life. Wekweètì, formerly known as Snare Lake, is situated near a major waterway, and the depiction of the lake in the badge emphasizes its central role in local traditions, travel, and sustenance.

Beyond the animals, the landscape extends to a dense spruce forest. The inclusion of these evergreen trees reflects the vast boreal forest that characterizes the Northwest Territories. This element symbolizes resilience and the interconnectedness of all living things within the ecosystem. The forest also represents the deep-rooted traditions of the Dechi Laot’i First Nations, who have lived in harmony with their environment for generations. Above the landscape, the sky features sparse cloudlets and a large rising sun. The sun is a powerful symbol of renewal, warmth, and the passage of time, all of which are important in a region where seasonal changes dictate much of daily life. The rising sun could also signify hope and the continued perseverance of the community.