Abstract

Many infrastructure projects in Canada have, and continue to be, perceived as part of the “hardwiring” of settler colonialism which enables the expansion of influence and control of central, non-Indigenous authorities over remote regions and Indigenous populations. Increasingly, these sites of hegemony are being challenged by Indigenous groups and their supporters. And with the expanding recognition of Indigenous rights and government directives on reconciliation, some Indigenous communities have had the opportunity to gain more agency than they have ever had before, particularly as it relates to infrastructure development.

Indigenous communities are demanding greater control and influence over various infrastructure projects within their traditional lands and territories, so that they can implement their visions of development and self-determination. The current legal and political landscapes around Indigenous rights and reconciliation is gradually allowing some Indigenous communities across Canada to gain greater influence and authority over major infrastructure projects. Marten Falls First Nation (MFFN) and Webequie First Nation (WFN) in particular are beneficiaries of these altered landscapes.

MFFN and WFN are two remote communities located in Far North Ontario and in the heart of the Ring of Fire (RoF) area, which is Ontario’s largest potential mineral reserve. Collectively, MFFN and WFN are the proponents of the Northern Road Link (NRL) project, which is a large-scale, community-driven infrastructure project that is located between the proposed Marten Falls’ Community Access Road (MFCAR) and the proposed Webequie Supply Road (WSR). The two First Nations are also the proponents of MFCAR and WSR respectively. The three road projects will connect the RoF mineral deposits to the provincial highway network. As proponents of the projects, MFFN and WFN are positioned to determine how the development of these projects will materialize in line with community-based aspirations and goals.

This presentation explores how MFFN and WFN became proponents of the roads and what it means to be proponents of major infrastructure projects. It will consider why the two First Nations became proponents, the challenges and opportunities that MFFN and WFN face as proponents, what the development process entails (e.g., environmental and impact assessments), how their advocacy and support for the projects are in line with their community visions and long-term objectives, and more. The presentation will primarily be delivered in the form of a panel discussion that allows representatives of MFFN and WFN to share what their experiences have been like as proponents. Overall, the presentation will showcase community reasons for being proponents and asks: Is Indigenous-driven development a path forward for self-determination and reconciliation? The presentation aligns with three themes of the Elevation 2.0 conference: Truth & Reconciliation, Diversity & Inclusion, and Economic Development. It also aligns with the broader vision of the conference, which is to include diverse voices and perspectives in conversations about infrastructure development and to promote innovative ways of thinking and practice around such development