Grassy Narrows First Nation takes human rights concerns to commission
The Grassy Narrows First Nation, a community in northwestern Ontario, has brought their human rights concerns to the forefront by filing a complaint with the Human Rights Commission of Canada.
The community, which has been dealing with the effects of mercury poisoning for decades, is seeking justice and accountability for the ongoing health crisis that has affected their people.
According to the complaint, the Canadian government has failed to address the issue of mercury contamination in the English-Wabigoon river system, which has been the main source of food and water for the Grassy Narrows community for generations.
The First Nation is also accusing the government of violating their human rights by not providing adequate healthcare and support for those who have been impacted by the mercury poisoning.
In a statement, Chief Rudy Turtle of Grassy Narrows First Nation said, “Our people have been suffering for far too long and it is time for the government to take responsibility and take action to address this crisis.”
The community has been advocating for a specialized treatment center to be built in their community to provide proper care for those affected by the mercury poisoning. However, their requests have been ignored by the government.
The Human Rights Commission has acknowledged the complaint and will be conducting an investigation into the matter. They have also stated that they will be working closely with the Grassy Narrows community to ensure their voices are heard and their rights are protected.
This is not the first time the Grassy Narrows First Nation has taken action to bring attention to their plight. In 2017, they held a protest in Toronto to demand government action on the mercury contamination issue.
The community’s fight for justice has gained support from various organizations and individuals, including environmental activist David Suzuki, who has called the situation a “national shame.”
The Grassy Narrows First Nation is determined to continue their fight for justice and hopes that the Human Rights Commission’s investigation will bring about much-needed change and accountability from the Canadian government.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remains hopeful that their voices will finally be heard and that their human rights will be respected and protected.
