November 28, 2024 – Robinson-Superior Treaty, Fort William First Nation Territory, Thunder Bay, Ontario: Delivering a powerful message in Ottawa at the Scaling Up 2024 Conference today, Jason Rasevych, President of the Anishnawbe Business Professional Association (ABPA) and member of Ginoogaming First Nation, demanded greater Indigenous ownership and leadership in Ontario’s burgeoning bioeconomy. Rasevych, a long-time advocate for Indigenous engagement in the natural resource sector, didn’t mince words in his call for a fundamental shift in how the province approaches economic development.
“The bioeconomy in Ontario has the potential but needs to acknowledge this is First Nations’ lands,” Rasevych declared during the “Scaling Up 2024 Feature Province – Ontario” session. “Yet, First Nations are too often relegated to the sidelines. We’re not just stakeholders; we’re rights-holders. We demand a genuine seat at the table, not just in consultation, but in ownership, leadership, and equitable sharing of the benefits.”
Rasevych’s address, delivered on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe, resonated with the ABPA’s ongoing advocacy for a more inclusive and equitable forest sector. The ABPA has been a leading voice in calling for:
- Increased access to capital for Indigenous-led bioeconomy businesses.
- A fairer distribution of forestry revenues to First Nations.
- Strategic investment in training and skills development for Indigenous peoples.
“The status quo is unacceptable,” Rasevych asserted to the audience, which included Ontario’s Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products, Kevin Holland, and industry leaders. “We need a bioeconomy that respects First Nations rights, advances economic reconciliation, and ensures the sustainable management of natural resources for generations to come. This requires a transformative approach – one that recognizes the inherent rights of First Nations and the invaluable contributions they bring to the table.”
Key takeaways from Rasevych’s presentation:
- Historical Context: Ontario is covered by 40 treaties with over 130 First Nations, affirming their inherent rights and title to the land and its resources.
- Economic Imperative: The bioeconomy is a $10 million tonne per year opportunity translating to $10 Billion economic impact offering immense economic potential for First Nations, including job creation, business development, and revenue generation.
- Sustainability: Indigenous knowledge and traditional practices are essential for the sustainable management of natural resources in Ontario and realizing value of Free Prior Informed Consent in capital markets, banking, private equity and company ratings.
- Partnership: Successful bioeconomy initiatives demand genuine partnerships and collaboration between First Nations, government, and industry.
Rasevych concluded his remarks with a direct challenge to the Ontario government and industry leaders: “Take concrete action. Implement policies and programs that support Indigenous-led businesses, provide access to capital, and create opportunities for training and skills development. The future of the bioeconomy in Ontario depends on our collective ability to work together in a spirit of respect and partnership. By embracing Indigenous knowledge and leadership, we can create a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.”
