Traditional Knowledge of Whati

Whatì is a place where conflict occurred long ago between the Tłı̨chǫ and the Chipweyan. It was Mǫwhì’s brother-in-law who was the first person to build a house in Whatì. The area has been a good trapping area – Whatì means ‘marten’. Nearby is the Nìı˛lı˛ı˛ (waterfall), where sometimes one can see a rainbow over the falls, which is taken as a sign and a reminder of the history of the Tłı̨chǫ.

Whatì is located on Lac La Martre, 210 km northwest of Yellowknife, with a population of approximately 520. It is accessible by winter road and year round by daily scheduled flights. The Mezi Community School provides Grades K-12. The community is known for its great fishing, scenic beauty and decorative arts.