Stopping Bill 97: Land Back in Action on Nitaskinan

Indigenous land defenders across Nitaskinan are rising up against Bill 97. Under the MAMO Alliance, they are protecting forests, water, and unceded territories. Support the resistance.

AMP:SHORTSFRONTLINE REPORTS

Franklin López⁩

5/22/20251 min read

Across so-called Quebec, Indigenous resistance is growing in response to Bill 97 — a forestry reform proposed by the Legault government that would hand even more control of the land to the logging industry. The bill is being fast-tracked, with little regard for the sovereignty of Indigenous nations or the health of the forests that sustain us all.

In response, land defenders from multiple nations — Nehirowisiw (Atikamekw), Innu, and Abenaki — have come together to form the MAMO Alliance. “Mamo” means together in both Innu and Atikamekw languages. It is a name rooted in solidarity and action.

As part of this movement:

  • Tipis have been erected as symbols of sovereignty and resistance on unceded territory.

  • Eviction notices have been issued to 11 logging companies operating without consent.

  • In Innu territory, land defenders — supported by the Gardien·ne·s du Territoire Nehirowisiw — have already interrupted logging operations, stopping destruction before it could begin.

The defenders are calling for:

  • A moratorium on industrial development in ancestral forests

  • The protection of biodiversity, traditional ways of life, and water sources

  • Recognition of Indigenous governance and ancestral rights

They are raising funds for:

  • Food and supplies for camps

  • Satellite internet to maintain communication with the outside world

  • Transport and logistics

  • Legal and safety needs

To contribute, visit: https://bit.ly/gardiens_du_territoire

This is a moment to show up. To stand with the people who are defending the land not just for themselves, but for future generations and for the planet.