First Nations youth took to the streets of Timmins June 6 to protest the adoption of Bill 5 by the Ontario government. The so-called Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act aims to fast-track resource development in the Ring of Fire region around western James Bay.
“This is an important event for me to take part in because this government action will affect my future and the land, the water and the animals,” said co-organizer Leon Prince, from Mattagami First Nation. “Their decisions will bypass laws, our peoples’ rights and directly affect our lives.”
The law reduces regulations for infrastructure, mining and resource projects by allowing the government to bypass environmental, ecological and First Nation rights.
According to the Chiefs of Ontario, Bill 5 significantly weakens oversight of mining and development projects, and limits First Nations consultation and consent.
“I was honoured to take part in this youth-led event,” said Mattagami Chief Jennifer Constant. “It was inspiring to see youth from our community and from throughout the North take such direct action to protect our lands, our communities and our rights.”
Constant added, “I’m hopeful that the government will reconsider what they’ve tried to push through and for them to recognize that they have fractured the trust that was being built between the provincial government and industry and First Nations communities and First Nations people.”
The demonstration was organized by First Nation youths Shem Mattinas, Katherine Jeremiah-Génier, Kendrick Jeremiah and Leon Prince.
The march by protestors to city hall was originally planned to be a small sidewalk event. But police shut down the city’s main thoroughfare in front of city hall as the crowd grew larger than expected.
Prayers and ceremonies were led by Elders Angela Shisheesh, Morris Naveau, Margaret Okimaw and others. It included traditional drumming and singing by local performers, as well as participants attending in traditional regalia and performing on ceremonial hand drums.
“I am here to support the youth of our communities,” commented Mattagami Elder Naveau. “It is great to see our young people here today. We have to stand strong to support our youth, our land, our rights and for our Mother Earth.”
The event brought together numerous speakers and supporters, including Deputy Grand Chief Mike Metatawabin (Nishnawbe Aski Nation), Deputy Grand Chief Natasha Martin (Mushkegowuk Council), Chief Elizabeth Kataquapit (Fort Albany FN), Timmins mayor Michelle Boileau, and former Timmins MP Charlie Angus. It also attracted supporters from the city and from the First Nations of Fort Albany, Kashechewan, Attawapiskat, Flying Post and Mattagami.