Inherent rights highlighted at the 8th annual Anishinabek Nation Lands and Resources Forum – Anishinabek News
February 19, 2024
NORTH BAY— Concerns of climate change, extreme mining claims, and the health of the Great Lakes were heard over three days at the 8th annual Anishinabek Nation Lands and Resources Forum, Kina-Gego-Naabadosin – Everything is Connected, at the Best Western in North Bay, Ont., from February 13 to 15.
Presentations and workshops were given by Indigenous and industry experts, as well as government representatives, providing opportunities for networking and discussion on successes and challenges.
In opening remarks, Anishinabek Nation Northern Superior Regional Deputy Grand Council Chief Melvin Hardy, a citizen of Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek says environmental issues must be prioritized. He spoke of concern that climate change and the erratic weather are affecting the harvesting livelihood of First Nation members.
“Up in Thunder Bay, we had a green Christmas in our area until probably in January. We know Mother Earth is trying to heal [herself] because of what’s occurring on our lands. A lot of people who harvest in the wintertime on the lakes are unable to do so because of the fact they can’t even go on the ice.”
