Community Members Travel 2,000 km to Oppose Legislation Threatening Environmental and Treaty Rights

TORONTO – Politics – On June 3, 2025, Grassy Narrows First Nation members Chrissy Isaacs and Crystal Swain were forcibly removed from the Ontario Legislature after vocally opposing Bill 5, legislation they argue endangers their community’s environmental and treaty rights.

Voices Silenced in the Legislature

During the legislative session, Isaacs stood in the public gallery and declared, “You’re not welcome on my territory. This bill will be met with resistance.” Security promptly escorted her out, followed by Swain and several labor leaders who joined in the protest.

“This law is an attack on my people,” Isaacs stated. “It would let mining companies destroy what little we have left—our land, our water, our way of life.”

Understanding Bill 5

Bill 5, known as the “Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act,” proposes the creation of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) where environmental regulations and municipal bylaws could be suspended to expedite industrial projects. Critics argue that this undermines environmental protections and Indigenous rights, particularly in areas like the Ring of Fire, rich in mineral resources.

The bill also seeks to amend the Environmental Protection Act and the Mining Act, potentially allowing the government to bypass environmental assessments for certain projects, raising concerns about unchecked industrial expansion.

Historical Context

Grassy Narrows has endured decades of environmental harm, notably mercury contamination from industrial activities in the 1960s and 70s, leading to long-term health issues within the community. The introduction of Bill 5 is perceived as a continuation of environmental neglect and a violation of treaty obligations.

Broader Opposition

The protest by Grassy Narrows members is part of a larger movement opposing Bill 5. Indigenous leaders, environmental groups, and opposition parties have criticized the bill for its potential to erode environmental safeguards and disregard Indigenous sovereignty. NDP MPP Sol Mamakwa, representing the Kiiwetinoong riding, was also ejected from the legislature for accusing the government of dishonesty regarding its consultation with First Nations.

Community Resilience

Despite their removal from the legislature, Isaacs and Swain remain resolute. “We will never stop defending our land and our water,” Isaacs affirmed. “We will uphold the first law of the land and protect the sources of life so that our kids can have a good life.”

The actions of these community members underscore the ongoing struggle for Indigenous rights and environmental justice in the face of legislative changes perceived as threatening to their way of life.