Mary McPherson displayed a hand-drawn portrait of Ontario Premier Doug Ford on a poster board, depicting him with dollar signs in his eyes, standing in front of a burnt forest and holding a torn copy of the James Bay Treaty. The artwork was a response to Bill 5, a contentious legislation aimed at expediting development to boost the province’s economic growth.
McPherson, a member of Couchiching First Nation, expressed her concerns about the environmental impact of projects like the Ring of Fire and emphasized the need for proper consultation and consent from Indigenous communities before proceeding with such initiatives.
Bill 5 will establish special economic zones granting exemptions from certain municipal and provincial laws to facilitate crucial projects, particularly in the mining sector. The provincial government intends to engage with First Nations during the summer to shape the regulations and establish these economic zones, including in the mineral-rich Ring of Fire area.
In recent weeks, numerous First Nation leaders and conservation groups have voiced opposition to the bill, citing violations of Treaty rights and weakening of environmental safeguards. McPherson and around 200 others gathered outside MPP Kevin Holland’s office in Thunder Bay, urging the repeal of Bill 5.
Participants at the rally stressed the importance of upholding the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, emphasizing genuine engagement and respect for Indigenous consent in decision-making processes.
Joyce Hunter, a member of Weenusk First Nation, shared her disappointment after attempting to deliver their message to Holland’s office, highlighting the need for broader public dialogue on the issue. Attendees later slid their protest signs under the office door to make their voices heard.
Holland’s office defended Bill 5, stating that it aims to drive beneficial development projects, including critical infrastructure and job creation, while maintaining environmental standards, labor laws, and the duty to consult with Indigenous communities.
Grassy Narrows First Nation, known for its environmental activism following mercury contamination in the 1960s and 70s, continues to oppose Bill 5, fearing increased mining activities that could harm their land. Community members, like Chrissy Isaacs, underscored the necessity of meaningful consultation and decision-making processes that respect Indigenous communities’ concerns.
Former Neskantaga First Nation chief, Chris Moonias, announced their community’s demand for the repeal of Bill 5 and called for the resignation of Minister Greg Rickford, signaling a growing call to action among Indigenous groups against the legislation.
