kayask kiskethitamowinah

As Canada moves toward a low-carbon future, critical minerals are becoming a central part of its climate strategy. Manitoba and Ontario—known as two of the most mining-friendly regions in the world—are promoting mineral development as a way to create economic opportunities, especially for Indigenous communities. But mining has also caused serious and long-lasting harm. Many of its impacts—on the land, on families, and on cultural traditions—have not been properly documented or addressed.

Kayask kiskethitamowinah, which means “learning from our past” in Cree, is a research project that brings together different areas of knowledge to explore this complex issue. It looks at both the damage mining has caused and the possibilities it may offer—if done with care, respect, and Indigenous leadership.

The project focuses on creating knowledge that comes from Indigenous perspectives. It is independent of government and industry, and shaped by the communities most affected. At its core, Kayask kiskethitamowinah is an invitation to rethink how we relate to the land and to each other—guided by the lessons of the past and the hopes of future generations.

The project team will look at historical records and impact benefit agreements, and speak with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community leaders to better understand how past and current mining projects have affected Indigenous communities. The team will also explore whether these projects reflect what the communities care about and need.

The project team will document changes in water quality, sediments, plants, and wildlife, and explore what these changes mean for the wellbeing of nearby communities. They will also gather land-based stories from Elders and Knowledge Keepers at eight mining sites, including two that are closed, two under long-term care, two abandoned, and two still active.

Four case studies will be created in partnership with First Nations in Manitoba and Ontario. These will focus on proposed mining projects and help show how well community priorities are being included in decision-making. Each community will also help identify any missing information and suggest ways to fill those gaps moving forward.

Important information will be shared through videos featuring Amisk the beaver puppet and stories told by community members. Since many people don’t trust data from industry or government sources, the project will compare that data with scientific findings created together with the communities involved. Information will be collected using the ‘Our Data Indigenous’ app and shared through simple reports and visual infographics. The project will also help build support networks and offer hands-on training for local youth and others who are interested in learning new skills.

Historical reports will be reviewed to help communities better understand the history and impact of mining. The project will build partnerships, host inclusive workshops and regional gatherings, and create a communication network that welcomes many different voices. Key findings, including videos that share community stories will be shared with decision-makers to help improve policies, especially those related to environmental racism and Bill 226.

A documentary will be made with communities to explore both the positive and negative effects of mining, aiming to reach a large range of audiences. Alongside this, there will be academic contributions such as published research papers, presentations at international conferences, and a book that brings together both expert and community voices in a way that’s easy for many people to understand.