6 First Nations challenge Ontario’s Mining Act, a month after similar legal action by Grassy Narrows [Video]

Six First Nations in northern Ontario are challenging the province’s Mining Act, arguing it violates their treaty and Charter equality rights.

Representatives from the First Nations and their legal counsel held a news conference at Queen’s Park on Monday, three days after the notice of application was filed in the Superior Court of Justice.

“The Ontario Mining Act is a piece of racist legislation that bulldozes over First Nations lands and rights. It says to the world that the land in Ontario is free for the taking and drilling and blowing up,” said Chief June Black of Apitipi Anicinapek Nation. “These are not your lands to give away, Ontario.”

The other First Nations behind the case are:

• Aroland First Nation.
• Attawapiskat First Nation.
• Fort Albany First Nation.
• Ginoogaming First Nation.
• Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug.

The Treaty 9 communities are being represented by Woodward and Company Lawyers LLP, a British Columbia-based firm that works exclusively for First Nations governments and organizations.

WATCH | Grassy Narrows First Nation …