Conflict over Salmon Fishing Rights in Restigouche

Historical Context

• Europeans arrived in North America and pushed Native Americans off their territory.
• Indians confined to reserves, hunting and fishing restricted by law.
• Recent efforts to address injustices, but conflicts still arise.

The Restigouche Conflict

• June 1981: Violent action against Indians in Canada over Mi'kmaq salmon fishing rights.
• Salmon is crucial for Mi'kmaq people for food and income.

Traditional Fishing Methods

• Mi'kmaq traditional fishing: spearing salmon with torches at night.
• Adapted to white settlers' methods over time.

Economic and Social Struggles

• Large families with limited job opportunities.
• Language barriers (English vs. French) in employment.
• Mi'kmaq people follow seasonal patterns: fishing in summer, hunting in winter.

Government Intervention

• June 9, 1981: Minister Lucien Lessard orders removal of nets within 36 hours.
• Quebec government suggests 72 hours of fishing per week; Mi'kmaq prefer six 12-hour nights.
• Federal government lifts restrictions on commercial fishing in New Brunswick.
• Disparity in tons of salmon caught by different groups.

The First Raid

• June 11, 1981: 90 fisheries wardens and 300 Quebec provincial police raid Restigouche Reserve.
• Nets seized and destroyed, police intimidating residents.
• Chaos and fear among the Mi'kmaq community.
• Police misconduct: urinating in public, physical abuse.

The Second Raid

• Increased tension and community readiness.
• Police met with organized resistance from Mi'kmaq and supporters.
• Use of tear gas and rubber bullets by police.
• Continued harassment and intimidation by police.

Legal Proceedings and Aftermath

• Many arrests made, including minors.
• Community leaders and supporters rally for Mi'kmaq rights.
• National Indian Brotherhood and other groups show solidarity.
• Federal Indian Affairs Minister John Monroe involved in negotiations.
• Tension remains high; ongoing struggle for fishing rights.
• Court eventually overturns convictions of some Mi'kmaq individuals.

Key Takeaways

• Long history of conflict between indigenous rights and government regulations.
• Importance of salmon to Mi'kmaq culture and economy.
• Government actions often exacerbate tensions rather than resolve them.
• Solidarity among indigenous communities plays a crucial role in resistance.
• Legal victories, though rare, can provide some relief and recognition of injustices.