First Nation leaders, advocates rally in Thunder Bay, Ont., to demand Bill 5’s repeal
Mary McPherson, a member of Couchiching First Nation, made a bold statement by holding up a pencil-drawn portrait of Ontario Premier Doug Ford on a poster board the size of her body. In the portrait, Ford is depicted with dollar signs over his eyes, standing in front of a burned-down forest while holding a torn copy of the James Bay Treaty. This artwork was created in response to Bill 5, controversial legislation that aims to fast-track development in the name of unleashing the province’s economic potential.
Expressing her anger and fear for the future, McPherson voiced her concerns about the environmental harm that Indigenous territories have already experienced due to resource extraction. She emphasized the lack of consultation and consent from Indigenous communities before moving forward with projects like the Ring of Fire.
Bill 5 will create special economic zones that allow exemptions for certain municipal and provincial laws, particularly in mining projects. The provincial government plans to consult with First Nations to inform the regulations and special economic zones, including the mineral-rich Ring of Fire in the James Bay lowlands.
The legislation has sparked opposition from dozens of First Nation leaders and conservation groups who argue that it violates Treaty rights and weakens environmental protections. Around 200 people gathered outside Thunder Bay—Atikokan MPP Kevin Holland’s office to protest against Bill 5, calling for its repeal.
Joyce Hunter, a member of Weenusk First Nation, criticized Holland’s office for refusing to engage with the rally participants and shutting the door on them. Despite the government’s claims that projects streamlined through Bill 5 are in the common interest of First Nations, many Indigenous communities remain skeptical and continue to push for their voices to be heard.
Grassy Narrows First Nation, known for upholding a blockade against clear-cut logging and mining, is particularly concerned about the implications of Bill 5 on their territory. With a history of environmental activism stemming from the devastating mercury contamination in the English-Wabigoon River System, community members like Chrissy Isaacs are determined to protect their land and ensure meaningful consultation in decision-making processes.
Former chief of Neskantaga First Nation, Chris Moonias, announced that his community has voted to demand the repeal of Bill 5 and the resignation of Minister Greg Rickford. They are prepared to take action and support other communities in their resistance against the legislation.
As the debate over Bill 5 continues, Indigenous communities and their allies remain steadfast in their opposition, calling for meaningful consultation, respect for Treaty rights, and the protection of the environment. The fight against the legislation is far from over, as communities stand together to defend their lands and rights.
