Matawa First Nations Congratulate Tsilhqot’in Nation
To the Tsilhqot’in Nation: As leaders of the Matawa First Nations of Neskantaga, Nibinamik, Webequie, Long Lake 58, Eabametoong, Marten Falls, Aroland and Ginoogaming, meeting today in Neskantaga, we offer our congratulations to you on your victory today in confirming Aboriginal Title to your lands, and the right to prior consent to development. The court has recognized what our elders have been saying all along: that you have jurisdiction in your lands.
As First Nations, we know that the land is our home and an integral part of our identity. The tremendous progress you’ve made today gives us renewed hope and strength in our ongoing fight for a just relationship with Canada and Ontario – one that similarly recognizes our Nations as Nations, and recognizes our title and jurisdiction over our lands.
It was a great honour to visit and support you last year. We look forward to when we can visit again, and we extend to you an invitation to visit us.