Cree Nation Celebrates 50 Years of Historic Agreement in Chisasibi

URGENT UPDATE: Hundreds of Cree from across Eeyou Istchee gathered today in Chisasibi, Quebec, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA). The event, held at the Mitchuap and Big River High School, featured key figures, including Daisy House, chief of Chisasibi, and Mandy Gull-Masty, federal minister of Indigenous Services, reflecting on the significant impact of this landmark agreement.

The JBNQA, signed on November 11, 1975, marked a pivotal moment for the Cree and Inuit communities, ensuring their rights amid the expansion of Hydro-Québec’s dam projects. Today’s gathering was not only a celebration of the past but also a moment for the Cree to envision their future. Chief House emphasized the profound changes the Cree have experienced over the last five decades, stating, “Just the changes and where we’ve come from, where we are now and where we wish to go. That’s my reflection.”

The day was filled with heartfelt reunions, storytelling, and honoring the legacy of the elders who foresaw the implications of land development. House recalled how these elders played an essential role in negotiating the JBNQA, protecting the land for future generations. “They saw the damage that could happen with the flooding of our rivers and lakes and the disappearance of the mountains,” she noted.

The event also featured Robert Kanatewat, one of the last living signatories of the JBNQA, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to witness this milestone. “I’m thankful … that I was able to be here personally, see and think back about what we did and why,” Kanatewat said, emphasizing the bond shared by the signatories.

While the JBNQA has been hailed as a crucial framework for survival, Kanatewat acknowledged its imperfections, urging future generations to build upon the foundation laid by their predecessors. “Carry on from where the old elders did and the old leaders have left. Be the person to be able to carry it on for the next generation,” he urged.

Amidst this reflection, Jimmy R. Fireman, a local Cree leader, highlighted the importance of sharing knowledge from the elders. He emphasized the need for youth to harness the wisdom still available, stating, “We should concentrate on the positive.” Fireman, who has worked closely with elders for over a decade, stressed that the upcoming generation of elders, shaped by different experiences, will continue to influence the community.

Gull-Masty, who has recently taken on her ministerial role, acknowledged the significance of the gathering, noting, “There’s a lot of people that would have been here today celebrating with us.” She emphasized the importance of every Cree individual in shaping the future, not just elected officials. “People who know how to do traditional hunting techniques, traditional knowledge, and language carriers — in the future, these people are going to be the most valuable for our Nation,” she stated.

Reflecting on the event’s emotional weight, House stated that it was a day of connection, remembrance, and honor, recognizing the contributions of those who have passed. “Could I have done what they did? Absolutely not. But with guidance from the elders, land stewards, and Cree tallymen — then yes, because I would have listened to them,” House remarked.

As the Cree Nation looks to the future, the anniversary serves as a powerful reminder of their resilience and the ongoing journey toward growth and self-governance. The community’s unity and commitment to preserving their culture and rights were palpable throughout the day, with participants sharing stories, laughter, and hope for the next 50 years.

The event underscores the critical role of the JBNQA in shaping the identity and future of the Cree Nation, reminding all attendees of the enduring strength of their heritage in an ever-evolving landscape.