Neskantaga First Nation’s youngest band councillor, Lashaunda Waswa, aims to inspire future generations to safeguard the community’s environment. Recently, she and seven others from the Ojibway community journeyed via snowmobile to a mining exploration camp within their traditional territory in the Ring of Fire region. Their objective was to present a cease-and-desist letter to the workers at the camp to halt all exploration operations.
Waswa, 21, expressed her distress over the proximity of the mining camp to her grandmother’s trapline, emphasizing the significance of protecting the land. The Ring of Fire, a valuable mineral deposit in the James Bay lowlands, has attracted attention as a strategic asset in the trade dispute between Canada and the U.S. Despite mining not yet being approved in the area, efforts to connect it to the provincial highway network have intensified, with multimillion-dollar agreements signed with various First Nations and the Municipality of Greenstone.
Several First Nations, including Neskantaga, have raised objections to development projects due to concerns about fast-tracked approval processes like Bill 5 and the One Project, One Process Framework. Waswa’s upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for the land’s significance, fueling her determination to protect it.
The exploration camp, operated by PTX Metals Inc., is pursuing the W2 Project targeting copper-nickel, platinum group elements, gold, and cobalt. Chief Gary Quisses of Neskantaga emphasized that the First Nation never consented to the ongoing exploration activities, which have escalated recently.
Neskantaga’s actions precede two significant events: the expected signing of a deal by the provincial and federal governments to expedite approvals for major projects, including roads to the Ring of Fire, and a $95-billion lawsuit involving 10 First Nations, including Neskantaga, challenging the regulatory frameworks for Treaty 9 lands.
In response to Neskantaga’s concerns, PTX Metals Inc. stated that they have all the required permits for exploration and have engaged with local communities transparently. The company expressed willingness to meet with community leadership. The Ontario Ministry of Indigenous Affairs emphasized that the duty to consult with Indigenous communities remains a priority.
Neskantaga, home to fewer than 400 people, has been under a boil water advisory for 30 years, facing multiple challenges like high living costs and inadequate infrastructure. Chief Quisses highlighted the dire living conditions in the community. Waswa, who has overcome personal struggles with addiction, is now dedicated to guiding the youth in embracing their cultural heritage.
One of the chief’s granddaughters, Katrina Sakanee, emphasized the community’s resolve to defend their land and resources. She stressed the importance of obtaining consent before engaging in mining activities on their land, emphasizing the community’s determination to protect their territory for generations to come.