A Reflection on the Grassy Narrows River Run by Vanessa Gray

On Thursday July 21st, the youth and Elders from Grassy Narrows (Asubpeeschoseewagong) First Nation led the 12th River Run at Queens Park in Toronto on the traditional Territory of the Huron-Wendat, the Anishnaabeg, Haudenosaunee, Chippewas, and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. 

After the mercury contamination in the Wabigoon River by a Dryden paper and pulp mill in the 1960’s and 70’s, community members have faced generational health impacts from years of mercury exposure. Grassy Narrows continues to uphold their inherent rights to their lands while simultaneously living with health impacts caused by mercury exposure. Long term exposure from industrial chemicals is one of the ongoing impacts that communities like Grassy Narrows and my community, Aamjiwnaang First Nation, continue to face. Despite this historical violence, we’ve always found our connection to the land through our traditions and teachings. 

Through it all, Elders have led the re-occupation of the land with support from the community and allies. These acts of resistance continue to inspire Indigenous land defenders like myself to fight for the land and our self-determination. While governments continue to poison our bodies and land, we are Anishinaabe, we are resilient. 

I attended the dinner hosted for the community members visiting Toronto and was honoured to fix a plate for Elder Judy DaSilva, who I often go to for advice. Anishinaabeg teachings include learning from our Elders to take care of the land and each other through community. Solidarity is a ceremony.

Learn more about Grassy Narrows and join us in solidarity by visiting FreeGrassyNarrows.net

Vanessa Gray is a queer Anishinaabe Kwe from the Aamjiwnaang First Nation. She is a water protector, environmental researcher, and community organizer for the Great Lakes region. She is also a respected land defender emphasizing Indigenous peoples inherent and legal rights and sovereignty within climate justice. Vanessa continues to take part in a diversity of strategies and works within ICA as our Divestment Campaign Coordinator.