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Cree

Also known as: Nehiyawak, Iyiniwok

First Nations

The Cree are the largest First Nations group in Canada, with communities spread across six provinces and territories. Their language, Cree, has more speakers than any other Indigenous language in Canada and remains vibrant in many communities.

Quick Facts

Group First Nations

Language Algonquian

Population Over 350,000

Regions QC, ON, MB, SK, AB, NT

💡 The Cree syllabics writing system, developed in the 1840s, was adopted so quickly that within a few years it had near-universal literacy in Cree communities — faster than any literacy campaign in history.

🗺️ Traditional Territory

Traditional Cree territory spans an enormous arc across the northern half of Canada, from the Rocky Mountains in the west to Labrador in the east — one of the largest Indigenous territories in North America.

A note on this page: This is a brief introduction. The Cree have a rich and complex history, culture and living presence that cannot be captured here. We encourage you to seek out Cree voices, visit cultural centres, and engage with community members directly.