In Marathon, Ontario, a recent comment made by a municipal staff member has sparked demands for accountability from neighboring First Nations communities. The remark was uttered during a draft budget meeting on Jan. 26, which was broadcasted on the town’s official YouTube channel.
The discussion revolved around funding for water infrastructure improvements when a town councillor inquired about the frequency of funding opportunities for such projects. Mayor Rick Dumas, also the president of the Northern Ontario Municipal Association, responded by stating that these opportunities arise frequently.
Following this, a senior staff member off-camera remarked, “yeah, we’re just the wrong colour.” This statement was interpreted by members of the nearby Biigtigong Nishnaabeg First Nation as a reference to skin color.
Chief Duncan Michano of Biigtigong Nishnaabeg expressed that the offensive comment was perceived as a reaction to the First Nation’s success in securing funding for a crucial water system overhaul. He emphasized that the funding was obtained through diligent efforts and not based on skin color.
The comment captured in a video clip circulated widely on social media, prompting Mayor Dumas to issue a statement on Jan. 30. He clarified that the remark was intended to highlight the challenges municipalities face in securing external funding, specifically in terms of political affiliations, and not to target Indigenous identity.
In response to the incident, Biigtigong Nishnaabeg called for the creation of a new town council position filled by a member of the First Nation residing in the town. They also demanded accountability from the individual who made the controversial remarks and their supervisor.
Neighboring First Nation Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg expressed solidarity with Biigtigong Nishnaabeg and announced the suspension of support, funding, and collaboration with Marathon Township until trust is reestablished. Chief Clyde Jacobs stressed the need for meaningful actions to rebuild trust in the wake of the incident.
The communities involved highlighted the importance of addressing underlying issues and fostering respectful regional partnerships based on trust and accountability.