Marathon Town Faces Backlash Over Staff’s Controversial Comment

A comment made by a municipal staff member during a budget meeting in Marathon, Ontario, has sparked significant backlash from local First Nations. The incident occurred on January 26, 2024, during an online discussion about funding for water infrastructure improvements. A town councillor inquired about the frequency of funding opportunities, to which Marathon’s mayor, Rick Dumas, replied that such opportunities “come up all the time.” Shortly after, a senior staff member off-camera remarked, “yeah, we’re just the wrong colour.”

This comment was perceived by members of the nearby Biigtigong Nishnaabeg First Nation as a reference to skin colour, prompting calls for accountability. Chief Duncan Michano expressed the community’s concern, stating that the remark was seen as “rude” and “bigoted,” particularly given Biigtigong Nishnaabeg’s recent success in securing funding for a complete replacement of their outdated water system. Michano emphasized that the funding was awarded due to a well-coordinated effort by the community’s leadership and not influenced by racial factors.

The controversial remark quickly circulated on social media, prompting Dumas to issue a statement on January 30. In his response, he clarified that the comment was intended to highlight the political challenges municipalities face in securing external funding and was not meant to reference Indigenous identity. He acknowledged that the wording could be misunderstood and offered a sincere apology.

A follow-up statement from the town’s senior administration sought to provide additional context, noting that the video clip shared on social media did not reflect the full scope of the discussion. The administration indicated that the remark stemmed from frustrations over funding challenges but did not directly address the concern raised by Biigtigong Nishnaabeg regarding the impact of the comment.

Chief Michano criticized the town’s response, suggesting that it failed to recognize the pain caused by the comment. He called for accountability, stating, “Instead of holding the person(s) accountable for their actions/comments, there appears to be an attempt to support the individual(s) by providing an escape route.” He announced that Biigtigong Nishnaabeg would suspend any support or funding for proposed projects with the township until the relationship could be reset.

In solidarity, Chief Clyde Jacobs of the neighboring Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg First Nation echoed Michano’s sentiments. His community, which has fewer than 350 residents, will also halt support for projects with Marathon until trust can be rebuilt. Jacobs highlighted that such comments reflect broader issues of racism within institutions across Canada, including municipal governance.

Both First Nations have called for Marathon to establish an additional councillor position filled by a representative from Biigtigong Nishnaabeg. They also urged the municipality to hold accountable those responsible for the remarks and to implement relevant recommendations from various national inquiries and commissions focused on advancing truth and reconciliation.

Approximately 3,100 people reside in Marathon, located about 300 kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay. The population of Biigtigong Nishnaabeg is around 530 individuals. The situation continues to unfold as community leaders seek to address the underlying issues and foster a more respectful dialogue. Trust, as Jacobs noted, “must be earned through action.”