Water Contamination and the Erosion of Indigenous Rights ¶
By: tyradouglas on Oct. 23, 2024, 9:05 p.m.
Through our readings and class discussions, we have examined how Indigenous identity and culture is closely linked and deeply connected to the land, making the current issues surrounding water contamination in Indigenous communities very troubling. Clean drinking water is an absolute essential, yet many Indigenous communities across Canada are still fighting to see action be taken in their communities. The Neskantaga First Nation community has been under a long term boil water advisory since 1996, making it the longest boil water advisory in Canada. The fact that there are so many communities across our country that have this very problem speaks to the fact that issues impacting Indigenous communities are not taken seriously by our government. These people should not have to fight or advocate for clean drinking water and this is a clear example of the continued mistreatment that Indigenous people face. The ongoing water contamination crisis is a violation of basic rights, but it also threatens the connection many Indigenous people have with the land which affects cultural practices and identity. The lack of access to clean water reflects the ongoing effects of colonialism and discrimination towards Indigenous people.
I looked into some solutions and initiatives that are being taken to address these issues. Water First is Canada’s leading charity dedicated to working with Indigenous communities to address water contamination. This organization provides education and training to ensure sustainable and long-term water solutions for Indigenous communities, while also collecting donations that go towards fixing infrastructures to provide clean water to these communities. I will link their website below if anyone is interested in reading more about this issue, or would like to donate. No person should have to go without clean water, this issue must be addressed.
Water First Organization
https://waterfirst.ngo/what-we-do/drinking-water/
Neskantaga FIrst Nation
https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1614887856664/1614887885919