Keepers of the land, in whose hands? Community responses to hydroelectrical dams in Northern Manitoba

Abstract

This research project was an opportunity to give context to hydroelectric development impacts in the light of sovereign community responses. The communities of focus were Tataskweyak Cree Nation (TCN) and O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation (OPCN). The impacts of hydro-development have been vast to both the environment and the people, particularly impacting cultural land practices and hence the identity of a people. Members of both communities have shared historical, community, and personal accounts of these impacts, in a bid to have a complete narrative of the impacts of hydroelectric development on a way of life. Various case studies of community responses to these impacts have been featured to showcase the resilience of a people. Particularly to show the ways in which actions of sovereignty are actions to reinstate identity in the face of these impacts. This thesis was a collaborative research effort with members of Tataskweyak Cree Nation and O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation directing the weight and application of themes within this research. The research aimed to highlight the long-standing social impacts of hydro as well as the various aspects of sovereignty used in responding to these impacts. This research used qualitative research methods, specifically narrative analysis, storytelling, thematic analysis, and discourse analysis, to achieve the research goals. Along with interviews from Knowledge Keepers, Land Users, and Elders, this research also carried out an analysis of archival records from the Clean Environment Commission and other sources. According to OPCN and TCN members, hydroelectric development impacts have often focused on the impacts to the land and water, leaving out the impacts on culture and ways of being. These environmental impacts have often overshadowed the social impacts that are key to the well-being of the featured Cree communities and their cultures. It is hoped that this thesis will broaden the understanding of the socioeconomic impacts of hydro development within the context of culture, practice, and identity, while highlighting sovereign community responses.