Nipigon, Ontario – October 17, 2024 — The Red Rock Indian Band (RRIB) has announced plans for a peaceful protest on October 21, 2024, in response to ongoing challenges in recovering the remains of their ancestors, disturbed during construction in Nipigon. The protest is intended to demand accountability from federal, provincial, and private entities involved.
In May 2024, the remains of four Indigenous ancestors were uncovered during excavation for Parks Canada’s $37 million Visitor Centre project at Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area. Despite early concerns about the area’s historical significance, proper archaeological procedures were not followed. As a result, ancestral remains were displaced, with much of the burial land disturbed and distributed across Nipigon, making it difficult for the community to recover their ancestors’ remains.
Chief Allan Odawa Jr. of RRIB expressed deep frustration, saying, “This would never happen with a settler cemetery. We need legislative changes to protect our ancestors, no matter who controls the land.”
As of October 15, 2024, around 60 loads of earth remain unaccounted for, and no additional remains have been found since August. RRIB continues to demand that Parks Canada and its contractors provide clear information regarding the missing earth and remains.
Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige of the Anishinabek Nation stated, “This situation reflects the broader issue of settler control over our lands and ancestors. Our community simply wants to bring our ancestors home.”
The Red Rock Indian Band invites supporters of Indigenous rights to join their peaceful demonstration to bring attention to this issue.
