Priscilla Solomon, CSJ on behalf of the Ecology Committee
The Green Window symbolizes the opportunity to look beyond our present situation and see the horizon, perhaps to imagine a new horizon. Today we need horizons of hope and sustainability. I needn’t describe the present reality of excessive carbon consumption and climate change. Nor do we need a description of the desperate situation that many Indigenous Peoples in this land face. The need for reconciliation emotionally, spiritually, politically, socially and economically is very evident. So also is the implementation of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and at least 94 ways or actions to accomplish this, as recommended by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
There are instances of hope – of new horizons. On Sept 22, Thessalon First Nation welcomes the public to tour their Bio Centre. This is how it is described in the media advisory. “Thessalon First Nation acquired the tree surgery in 2000, which was previously owned by the Ministry of Natural Resources. Today, the Bio Centre has the capacity to produce elite plants and trees using cutting edge technologies and can house several agricultural ventures simultaneously. Some modern equipment and facilities include, a 6000 square foot refrigeration building, 17 climate controlled greenhouses, 100 acres of arable fields, access to organically certified facilities, and an on-site biological lab….” The tour was offered to Thessalon FN members, potential partners, investors, funders and vendors. When I spoke to Nadine Roach she said the “Thessalon First Nation” is already working with such groups as “Sustainable Forest License Holders,” “Corridors for Life” and the “50 Million Tree program.”
The Centre provides economic resources to the community, including employment. It also provides Thessalon FN a way to be a leader in sustainable development, thus meeting their traditional value of care for the land and all its inhabitants. They work with organizations that also have the desire to protect the earth, the water and the plant and animal life it sustains.
Another example is the Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek (BZA) First Nation who are developing two run-of-river hydro projects on the Namewaminikan River in partnership with AXOR Group and two other Lake Nipigon First Nation communities (The AXOR Group specializes in the generation of renewable energy and green energy in Canada and across the world). The reserve is also involved in commercial fishing, forest harvesting and the construction business. Ray Nobis, a community spokesperson says the community of about 340 on-reserve band members has its own forest licence permit and has “laid out a partnership with Taranis [Contracting Group] for our construction.” Nobis also relates how they harvest lumber every year and have a strong silviculture program in place to nurture new trees for planting and sustainability.
These inspirational projects are but two of numerous First Nations initiatives for creating new hope, new horizons and a better future. Traditional wisdom bringing healing for our Mother Earth and her peoples.
Useful Websites:
https://www.thessalonfirstnation.ca
