Photo:Reuters

A group of First Nations leaders made a strong and clear statement by walking out of a federal government meeting regarding the new Building Canada Act—a law intended to speed up approval for major infrastructure projects across Canada. This action reflects deep concerns and frustrations among Indigenous communities who feel excluded and unheard in decisions affecting their lands, rights, and future.

The Building Canada Act (also known as Bill C-5) was introduced by the federal government as part of a plan to fast-track important projects like mines, pipelines, and other large developments deemed to be in the "national interest." The government says this law will cut bureaucratic delays and help build vital infrastructure quickly to grow Canada’s economy.

However, First Nations leaders and many Indigenous groups say the bill was rushed through Parliament without proper talks or respect for their rights. They argue that the act threatens their constitutional rights, especially to be consulted and to give or withhold consent before any development happens on their ancestral lands.

At the meeting from which the leaders walked out, many chiefs expressed their disappointment and anger. They said the government’s approach ignored their voices and failed to honor past agreements and laws that protect Indigenous rights. Some chiefs described the process as disrespectful and harmful, accusing the government of sidelining Indigenous priorities like protecting the environment and strengthening community infrastructure.

The main issues raised included worries that the law allows the federal government to override important environmental protections and Indigenous laws. It also gives sweeping powers to political leaders to decide which projects move forward quickly without needing to properly engage First Nations communities.

Amnesty International Canada and other human rights organizations have condemned the Building Canada Act, calling it a “troubling threat” to Indigenous peoples’ rights. These groups highlight that the act goes against the principle of free, prior, and informed consent, a standard outlined by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), which Canada pledged to uphold.

First Nations leaders emphasize that their opposition is not about stopping development or progress. Instead, they want meaningful partnerships with the government—relationships based on respect, trust, and making decisions together. They call for slowing down the process and fully consulting communities to ensure projects do not harm their lands or violate their rights.

In response to concerns about the bill, the Assembly of First Nations hosted a national virtual forum on the same day as the walkout. This forum gave chiefs a platform to discuss the bill in depth and share their views on its potential impact. Speakers at the forum stressed the need for sovereignty and the right to self-determination, urging that the government must include Indigenous priorities in defining what counts as the national interest.

Legal actions have also been launched. Nine First Nations in Ontario have filed a constitutional challenge against the legislation, arguing that it infringes on their rights to consultation and self-governance. They assert the law allows the government to bypass them unilaterally, damaging the Crown-Indigenous relationship and undermining reconciliation efforts.

Critics argue the bill threatens environmental safety by weakening protections, pushing projects forward without enough assessment, and giving too much power to cabinet officials behind closed doors. Environmental teams, lawyers, Indigenous activists, and community groups warn that this law could lead to irreversible damage to ecosystems, wildlife, and local communities.

The federal government, led by Prime Minister Mark Carney, claims the law is necessary to modernize the approval process, removing red tape and building Canada’s economy against global challenges. Carney has expressed intentions to meet with Indigenous leaders to discuss the law and its implementation, promising collaboration and benefits like possible Indigenous equity roles in projects.

Despite these promises, there remains widespread mistrust. Indigenous leaders stress that past experiences show consultation must be more than a formality—it must be genuine and respect their right to say no or negotiate terms. Without such respect, the government risks increasing protests, legal battles, and social conflict.