Grassy Narrows chief announces candidacy for Ontario regional chief
Chief Rudy Turtle says he will run at Chiefs of Ontario annual assembly in June
Chief Rudy Turtle of Grassy Narrows First Nation has announced his intention to run for Ontario regional chief at the provincial chiefs assembly in June.
Turtle is in his second term as chief of Grassy Narrows and a founding member of the First Nations Land Defence Alliance, which has hosted several rallies and events in opposition to mining without consultation in northwestern Ontario's Ring of Fire.
He was previously a candidate for the federal NDP for Kenora riding in 2019.
Turtle has also been outspoken about the ongoing effects of mercury poisoning in the English-Wabigoon River, which has affected most people living in Grassy Narrows. Though the original mercury contamination of the river system happened in the 1960s and '70s, a recent study suggests ongoing industrial activity is making things worse.
"Our communities continue to suffer from the failures of Ontario and Canada resulting in ongoing attacks on our way of life." Turtle said in a statement announcing his candidacy.
"The Chiefs of Ontario needs a strong, proven advocate leading the way if we are going to tackle issues like lack of housing, youth suicide, drug epidemics, and mental health issues," he said. "We have to fiercely protect our Treaty rights and restore our people's control and connection to our lands if we are going to overcome these crises."
Glen Hare is the current Ontario regional chief. He was elected in June 2021.