Four First Nations in northwestern Ontario have formed a coalition against resource extraction
in their traditional land use territories.
Grassy Narrows, Big Trout Lake (Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug), Wapekeka, and Neskantaga were part of a signing ceremony on Tuesday.
The four First Nations were joined by Sol Mamakwa, NDP MPP for Kiiwetinoong and Official Opposition Critic for Indigenous Affairs.
They are concerned about mounting encroachment from mining and forestry companies.
The Protecting Our Lands Conference was held on the Grassy Narrows First Nation as part of the signing ceremony.
The chiefs of the communities say they want premier Doug Ford to meet with them immediately and end the
governments pro-industry stance which is allowing mining exploration against the will of the first nations.
(Photo provided: conference attendees at Grassy Narrows blockade site)
