Aki.

Guided by the principles set out Manito Aki Inakonigaawin we ensure that we are proper stewards of the land.

Manito Aki Inakonigaawin.

In April and July 1997, Grand Council Treaty #3 Elders gathered in Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nug at Manito Ochi-waan to consider and approve Manito Aki Inakonigaawin, or the Great Earth Law.

The Nation proclaimed this law on October 3, 1997, with approval of the Elders and validation in traditional ceremony, as well as ratification by the National Assembly.

The Great Earth Law states that the Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty #3 maintains rights to all lands and water in the territory throughout Northwestern Ontario and Southeastern Manitoba. Accordingly, any development in the Treaty #3 territory, including forestry, mining, hydro, highway, pipeline, and other consultation approaches, require the consent, agreement, and participation of the Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty #3.

A Duty to Consult.

Activities that trigger consultation include, but are not limited to:

  • First Nation response to project request
  • Traditional protocol will outline process to seek direction from Elders, Council, Membership
  • Community process will outline the process the community will engage in to get consent/approval to move forward with project including ratification
  • Funding framework will outline the financial cost to engage all elements of our consultation model by the proponent
  • Memorandum of understanding document between affected communities, Grand Council Treaty #3, Canada/Ontario/Industries.
Changes in land status, legal, or policy changes
Approvals which lead to the construction, expansion, amendment, or decommissioning of any facility or associated infrastructure
The approvals which may lead to the issuance of licenses, permits, or leases
Infringement of Treaty Rights and sacred resources