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New Film Explores Indigenous Resistance to Nuclear Development in Canada

A 10-minute documentary titled Askomiw Ksanaqak (Forever Dangerous): Indigenous Nations Resist Nuclear Colonialism premiered on November 29 as part of the SSHRC-funded Contesting Energy Discourses through Action Research (CEDAR) project at St. Thomas University. The film highlights Indigenous resistance to nuclear development and its environmental and social impacts.

Indigenous Voices Against Nuclear Development

The video features Peskotomuhkati Nation of Skutik Chief Hugh Akagi and Wolastoq Grand Council Chief Ron Tremblay, who speak about the lack of consultation regarding the development of the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generation Station in New Brunswick. They emphasize the ongoing environmental risks posed by nuclear energy projects on Indigenous lands.

Mississauga First Nation Councillor Peyton Pitawanakwat also appears in the film, discussing her community’s proximity to the world’s largest uranium refinery near Lake Huron, Ontario. Uranium is essential for nuclear reactors, tying her region's struggles to broader concerns about nuclear energy in Canada.

Earlier this year, Chief Tremblay, Chief Akagi, and Pitawanakwat joined other Indigenous leaders from Ontario and Quebec in Ottawa, holding a media event at the National Press Theatre to raise awareness about the risks of nuclear waste storage on their territories.

Powerful Visual Storytelling

The film’s compelling visuals include stunning shots of the Bay of Fundy and detailed animations illustrating Point Lepreau's precautionary zones. CEDAR collaborated with Eleven North Visuals from northern Ontario and the Passamaquoddy Recognition Group Inc. (PRGI) to produce the film.

The title Askomiw Ksanaqak was created by Wolastoq elders, including Opolahsomuwehs Imelda Perley, after learning about nuclear power’s environmental effects. In the Wolastoq language, the phrase captures the “forever dangerous” legacy of nuclear power generation.

Calls for Environmental Justice

At the film’s launch in Fredericton, Chief Tremblay urged vigilance, emphasizing the need to monitor environmental changes affecting local ecosystems. Chief Akagi expressed deep concern for future generations, stating, “The Native in me cries for generations yet to come. To tell the truth, we have to get around to debunking the lies.”

Fredericton MP Jenica Atwin attended the event, emphasizing the fight for “the human right to clean water.” She shared her hope that future generations would enjoy the same natural beauty she experienced growing up in New Brunswick.

Atwin also referenced the Nuclear Waste Management Organization’s (NWMO) recent selection of a site in Northwestern Ontario for a proposed Deep Geological Repository for high-level nuclear waste. While the local Wabigoon Lake Ojibway First Nation agreed to continue participating in the NWMO process, Susan O’Donnell clarified that the community had not given its full informed consent.

Newly reelected Fredericton-Lincoln MLA David Coon, Leader of the provincial Green Party, spoke about renewable energy alternatives, calling the event “a hopeful day” for environmental advocacy.

Research and Advocacy

The film is part of a broader study analyzing public statements about nuclear energy and radioactive waste. Co-author Robert Atwin reviewed submissions from Indigenous communities to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. The study also explored the implications of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) in Canada. Since its release, the report has been downloaded 451 times.

Askomiw Ksanaqak (Forever Dangerous) underscores the ongoing struggle of Indigenous communities to protect their lands and assert their rights amid Canada’s nuclear energy expansion. Through visually striking storytelling and powerful testimonies, the film calls for greater environmental accountability and respect for Indigenous sovereignty.

Sophie M. Lavoie is a member of the NB Media Co-op’s editorial board. The NB Media Co-op is a partner on the CEDAR project. This reporting has been made possible in part by the Government of Canada, administered by the Canadian Association of Community Television Stations and Users (CACTUS).