The grounds of Queen’s Park became the final stop in a youth-led movement that stretched 700
kilometres from Timmins to Toronto.

Fred Alvarado — Local Journalism Initiative

The 7th Fire Youth: Call to Action rally, held on August 8, marked the culmination of a three-week ceremonial walk organized by Tristan Ashishkeesh and guided by Mahmo Inninuwuk Wiibuseego-Stamok.

Walking beside him were Sage Iahtail and Todd Spence, who set out on July 15 to challenge Ontario’s Bill 5 and Canada’s Bill C-5—laws they say threaten First Nations rights, lands, and futures. Craig Koostachin also began the journey but was forced to withdraw after doctors warned of severe health risks.

At each stop, the walkers carried their message to communities, building momentum for the Toronto rally, where more than 80 people gathered in ceremony, song, and solidarity.

Mushkegowuk Council Grand Chief Leo Friday, Deputy Grand Chief Amos Wesley, and Chief Sylvia Koostachin-Metatawabin joined the call, emphasizing the urgency of protecting Indigenous voices in decision-making. Youth leaders noted that their generation, despite facing the greatest impact, was left out of consultations on both bills.

Among those standing in solidarity was Regent Park activist Miguel Avila-Velarde, who described the action as a vital defense of future generations.

For Regent Park and surrounding communities, where many Indigenous families live and organize, the walk and rally serve as a reminder that the defense of First Nations rights is not only a distant issue but one that shapes our shared future here at home.