Indigenous peoples have the right to protect themselves from COVID-19. | View in browser.

Members of Tataskweyak Cree Nation and three other First Nations have set up checkstops to protect their communities
(Photo: Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanakhave)

Dear John,

You may recall an email last month from Hilda Anderson-Pyrz from O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation in northern Manitoba about violence and harassment against Indigenous women at Manitoba Hydro’s Keeyask dam site.

We’re following up with you today because another deeply concerning situation is emerging: Manitoba Hydro is violating the right of Indigenous peoples to protect themselves from COVID-19.

Despite opposition from First Nations who are concerned about the spread of COVID-19 to their communities, Manitoba Hydro has announced that 700 current workers at Keeyask will be replaced by 1,200 workers from across Canada and possibly the United States.

Concerned about the influx of workers during the pandemic, community leaders and elders have set up checkstops near the dam site, and are calling on Manitoba Hydro to respect their right to limit access to their territories to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including limiting access to Keeyask.

On Monday, Manitoba Hydro obtained an injunction against the First Nations, and community members and leaders who are upholding their responsibility to protect their territories and people according to their laws and protocols.

These communities have an inherent responsibility and right to control access into their territories to protect their communities from COVID-19 and prevent unsustainable pressure on healthcare systems in rural and remote areas.

Manitoba Hydro is putting lives at risk. Please urge Manitoba Hydro to respect the rights of Indigenous peoples by complying with their demand to restrict access to the Keeyask dam project.

Amnesty International is firmly in solidarity with First Nations who are peacefully exercising their rights to self-determination and territorial defense.

Everyone has a right to health, to an adequate standard of living, and to be free from violence and discrimination. Thank you for speaking out in solidarity with Indigenous peoples who are exercising their right to control what happens in their territories, including protecting the well-being of the communities.

Yours in solidarity,

Ana Collins & Jackie Hansen
Campaigns Team
Amnesty International Canada

P.S. Pressure is mounting on Manitoba Hydro! Yesterday, CBC reported that Manitoba Hydro appears to be backing down from its initial plans and would gradually replace the workers rather than an abrupt shift change of all workers. However, this falls short of what First Nations have called for, which is for access to Keeyask to be limited to 250 workers to protect the health and safety of their communities. Let’s redouble our efforts and increase the pressure on Manitoba Hydro to respect Indigenous rights!