Mining Firm Disrespects Onigaming First Nation Amid Youth Suicide Crisis, Underscoring Need for Industry Reform and Real Reconciliation – NetNewsLedger
Press Release
May 5, 2025
THUNDER BAY – May 5, 2025 – As the Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation continues to mourn its youth and navigate a long-standing community emergency, the behaviour of a speculative mining company has triggered national outrage and deepened the wounds of colonialism still felt across many Indigenous communities.
The First Nation, located in Northwestern Ontario, has been under a formal state of emergency since 2014, grappling with youth suicides, substance abuse, and ongoing systemic trauma. But while Onigaming walks the path of healing, it has faced unacceptable pressure and abuse from Golden Rapture, a little-known mining speculator with claims staked in the community’s territory.
Industry Disrespect Amid Tragedy
According to Onigaming Chief Jeffrey Copenace, the Nation was unable to engage in mining consultations due to the ongoing community crisis.
