Northern Ont. First Nation rallies against fast-tracked development bills

A four-day protest near Highway 17 against Ontario’s Bill 5 and federal Bill C-5, which ease development rules, by Pic Mobert First Nation has ended.

Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg (Pic Mobert First Nation) wrapped up a four-day protest against federal and provincial legislation they say undermines Indigenous rights and environmental protections, culminating in a Day of Unity and Peaceful Action on July 4.

The demonstrations, held near Highway 17 – a vital transportation corridor in northern Ontario – drew dozens of protesters, including representatives from neighbouring First Nations, regional chiefs and political allies like the Anishinabek Nation. The site, adjacent to active mining, forestry and energy projects, was chosen to emphasize the community’s role as a development partner while rejecting policies they say exclude Indigenous voices.

“This protest was never about disruption for the sake of headlines,” said Chief Louis Kwissiwa of Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg, in a news release Friday.

“We came here out of duty to protect our children’s future. Let me be clear: we directly oppose Bill 5 and Bill C-5, and the way these laws have been developed and imposed without proper consultation.”

Kwissiwa criticized the legislation for sidestepping treaty rights and democratic processes, calling it a threat to Indigenous sovereignty and environmental security.

“This is not just about policy – it is about respect, fairness and the survival of our lands, cultures and communities,” he said.

Police acknowledge peaceful demonstration

The Ontario Provincial Police commended Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg for their cooperation in maintaining a lawful and safe event. In a social media post Thursday, police expressed gratitude to the community for their “patience, strength and steadfast commitment to community safety,” adding, “Your leadership and collaboration were deeply valued.”

Protest organizers also acknowledged the OPP’s respectful presence, noting officers ensured safety while upholding the right to peaceful assembly.

Broader Indigenous opposition

The protest reflects mounting frustration among First Nations over Bill C-5, the One Canadian Economy Act, which allows federal fast-tracking of major industrial projects, and Ontario’s Bill 5, which empowers the province to exempt “special economic zones” from provincial laws.

Both bills have faced accusations of ignoring Indigenous consultation requirements.

In June, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak condemned Bill C-5’s lack of “free, prior and informed consent” provisions, calling it a violation of Indigenous rights.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has since agreed to a national gathering with First Nations leaders next month.

Youth leaders have also held rallies in Toronto, Ottawa and across northern Ontario amplifying concerns.

“If the land is sick, we’re going to be sick as well,” said Hanna Sewell, a nurse from Batchewana First Nation, at a protest last month.

Symbolism and solidarity

The Pic Mobert protest included speeches from Neskantaga First Nation delegates, who warned of ecological risks posed by industrial development in the Ring of Fire, a mineral-rich region overlapping critical peatlands known as “The Breathing Lands.”

Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg emphasized that their opposition is not to development itself but to exclusionary processes.

“Development must proceed with respect, equity and genuine participation,” First Nation leaders wrote.

A pledge to continue the fight

Chief Kwissiwa framed the protest as the beginning of a sustained movement.

“We will always stand up and fight back,” he said. “This is our responsibility to future generations.”

The AFN is planning a July 10 virtual forum and a September general assembly to oppose the bills.

“This was only the beginning,” the news release said.

With files from CTVNorthernOntario.ca journalist Lydia Chubak and The Canadian Press