‘Do the right thing’: Grassy Narrows First Nation demands action on mercury pollution ahead of Ontario vote

Judy DaSilva, an elder, grandmother, and environmental health co-ordinator for Asubpeeschoseewagong Netum Anishinabek, also known as Grassy Narrows First Nation, has been feeling the effects of mercury poisoning for years. The contamination in her community dates back to the 1960s and ’70s when the Dryden Paper Mill dumped approximately nine tonnes of mercury into the English-Wabigoon River System.

DaSilva, along with dozens of others, gathered outside Queen’s Park to hold a vigil for those who have been harmed or died prematurely due to mercury contamination. They are demanding that the provincial government put an end to the mill’s toxic dumping into the water, eliminate all industrial threats of pollution, and compensate affected community members.

Despite their efforts to meet with Progressive Conservative Leader Doug Ford, he has refused to engage with the community. This lack of response has left DaSilva questioning why their pleas are being ignored. She finds it incredibly difficult to keep coming back to Toronto to call on Ford to take action for her community.

The impact of mercury poisoning on the people of Grassy Narrows is severe, with an estimated 90% of the population showing symptoms of poisoning. These symptoms include tremors, insomnia, memory loss, neuromuscular effects, headaches, and cognitive and motor dysfunction. Fish, a staple part of the community’s diet, have been a primary source of mercury contamination.

Recent studies have indicated that ongoing industrial pollution is exacerbating the contamination issue. Grassy Narrows First Nation has intensified their lobbying efforts to address the crisis and hold those responsible accountable.

In 2017, the Ontario government pledged $85 million for mercury cleanup and remediation efforts in the English-Wabigoon River system. Additionally, the federal government committed to building a Mercury Care Home in Grassy Narrows, with construction expected to begin soon.

Despite the slow progress and continued suffering, DaSilva remains determined to fight for justice for her community. She acknowledges the psychological, economic, social, cultural, and spiritual harm caused by the ongoing contamination and negligence. She hopes that future generations will continue the fight until justice is served and the environment is protected.

Jeffrey Ansloos, an associate professor of Indigenous health and social policy at the University of Toronto, highlights the direct link between environmental harm and poor mental health in First Nations communities in Ontario. He emphasizes that the effects of colonialism are evident in the ongoing crisis in Grassy Narrows and urges for immediate action to address the issue.

Despite the challenges and hardships faced by the community, DaSilva’s unwavering determination and resilience serve as a beacon of hope for the future. She, along with others in Grassy Narrows, will continue to raise awareness, advocate for change, and fight for justice until their voices are heard and their demands are met.