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First Nations’ Rally at Queen’s Park Sparks Massive First Nations Mining Protest

First Nations Unite Against Mining: Demanding Justice and Consent

September 26, 2023, 7:23 pmupdated March 10, 2024, 1:43 pm 1.6k Views

First Nations Leaders Back At Queen'S Park To Push Ontario Premier Ford To End Mining Activity On Their Land

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First Nations Mining Protest

First Nations' Rally at Queen's Park Sparks Massive First Nations Mining Protest

First Nations Mining Protest gains momentum as leaders demand an end to mining activity on their ancestral lands.

First Nations Leaders Demand Action as Mining Controversy Escalates

By Ava Roberts, NewsBurrow News Network

In a compelling turn of events, leaders from four First Nations in northern Ontario have returned to Queen's Park to take a stand against mining activity on their ancestral lands. Their mission is clear: to urge Ontario Premier Doug Ford to put an end to these activities that are threatening their traditional territories. This powerful move comes on the heels of rising tensions surrounding mining claims staked on Indigenous lands.

The Birth of the First Nations Land Defence Alliance

Earlier this year, in response to the surge in mining claims on their ancestral lands, the First Nations Land Defence Alliance was formed. Comprising Grassy Narrows, Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, Muskrat Dam, Neskantaga, and Wapekeka First Nations, this alliance aims to protect their sacred territories from further exploitation.

Their call for action revolves around the principle of free, prior, and informed consent – a right that has often been overlooked when it comes to Indigenous communities' land. The alliance issued an invitation to Premier Doug Ford to meet with them, not one of his ministers, to sign a declaration committing to ending mining activities on their lands without their consent. However, their request took an unexpected turn when Ford designated Kenora-Rainy River MPP Greg Rickford to meet with them instead, leading to further frustration among Indigenous leaders.

Why Ford's Presence Matters

The leaders of the First Nations Land Defence Alliance insist on meeting with Premier Ford directly because he is the one who sets the policies for his government, including the controversial mining activities. Grassy Narrows First Nation Chief Rudy Turtle emphasized this point during a news conference, saying, “It's Ford who has been advocating for the Ring of Fire and other mining projects. There are about 5,000 mining claims in our traditional territory alone, and they were granted without our free, prior, and informed consent. We are not pleased with this situation.”

The Ring of Fire: A Cause for Concern

One of the primary concerns of the alliance is the Ring of Fire, a mineral-rich area located in Treaty 9 territory. This region has become the epicenter of proposed mining and infrastructure projects, further intensifying the conflict between Indigenous communities and the provincial government. The potential environmental and social impacts of these projects loom large, and the alliance aims to ensure that their voices are heard in the decision-making process.

The Threat of Blockades

As tensions rise, the leaders of the First Nations alliance have made their intentions clear. If the province proceeds with mining exploration without their consent, they are prepared to take more drastic measures. Chief Turtle stated that while blockades are not their preferred method of communication, they are willing to resort to such actions if necessary. “We prefer to sit at the table and hope that Premier Ford is wise enough to do so. However, if he continues to bulldoze his way through, he will undoubtedly encounter resistance,” Turtle warned.

Ford's Response—or Lack Thereof

Shortly after the alliance leaders set up a table outside the Legislature, they awaited Premier Ford's arrival to address their concerns. However, Ford did not show up. During question period, Kiiwetinoong MPP Sol Mamakwa pressed the premier on whether he would meet with the chiefs. Ford did not directly answer the question but emphasized his accessibility to First Nations communities, a statement that did not sit well with the Indigenous leaders present.

Political Criticism and the Colonial Playbook

The official opposition, represented by NDP MPP Marit Stiles, was present at the meeting alongside Mamakwa. Stiles criticized Ford for not sitting down with the Indigenous leaders, saying, “This government has failed to acknowledge the concerns of these communities. The premier needs to hear directly from the community members who are living with the impacts of resource extraction in their territories.” Mamakwa went further, characterizing Ford's actions as oppressive and drawing attention to what he called the “colonial playbook” being followed.

A March to Raise Voices

To amplify their message and voice their concerns about mining claims that they argue have been staked without their consent, members of the alliance are planning a march from Grange Park to Queen's Park. This demonstration will include hundreds of community members and supporters, aiming to bring further attention to the issue.

In Conclusion

This unfolding story showcases the resilience and determination of Indigenous communities in Ontario who are demanding that their voices be heard in decisions that directly impact their lands and way of life. The conflict over mining activities in Treaty 9 territory is far from over, and as tensions escalate, it remains to be seen how the provincial government will respond.

Join the conversation and share your thoughts on this critical issue. Do you believe that Premier Ford should meet directly with the Indigenous leaders? What are your thoughts on the impact of mining activities on traditional territories? Let your voice be heard in the comments section below. Together, we can shed light on this important matter and work toward a more equitable future.

First Nations' Rally at Queen's Park Sparks Massive First Nations Mining Protest

In the face of mounting concerns over mining activities on their ancestral lands, First Nations leaders have taken a resolute stand at Queen's Park. They've come together, forming the First Nations Land Defence Alliance, a united front against the surge in mining claims encroaching upon their sacred territories. Their message is clear: they demand the cessation of mining operations without the express, prior, and informed consent of their communities.

Premier Doug Ford was invited to meet with these leaders, to sign a declaration renouncing mining without proper consent. Instead, his offer of Kenora-Rainy River MPP Greg Rickford was met with disappointment and determination. These leaders understand that it's the premier who sets the policies governing their lands, and they insist on meeting him directly.

The heart of their concern lies in the Ring of Fire, a mineral-rich region that holds promise for significant mining and infrastructure projects. But for these First Nations, it's not about the potential economic gains; it's about protecting their heritage, their lands, and their way of life. In a bold move, they've vowed to set up blockades if necessary, though their preferred path is a seat at the table for meaningful dialogue.

This article is a call to action, not just for these First Nations leaders but for all who share their concern for environmental stewardship and Indigenous rights. Join us in exploring products and initiatives dedicated to environmental activism, where your support can make a difference. Together, let's work toward a future where the land is respected, and the voices of its original custodians are heard.