The Neskantaga First Nation community in northern Ontario has been suffering from a lack of access to clean drinking water for more than 30 years. Despite being one of Canada's most prosperous countries, the basic human right to safe drinking water has been denied to this indigenous community. As a result, Neskantaga has faced numerous health crises, including high rates of skin diseases, gastrointestinal illnesses, and other waterborne diseases.

The government of Canada has repeatedly promised to supply clean drinking water to all indigenous communities, yet Neskantaga remains forgotten and neglected. In 2015, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau pledged to resolve long-standing boil-water advisories by March 2021, but Neskantaga has yet to see any progress. This failure underscores a disregard for the health and wellbeing of its indigenous citizens.

Access to safe and clean drinking water is not just a necessity; it is a fundamental human right recognized in international law, including Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Depriving the Neskantaga First Nation of this right perpetuates systemic inequalities and denies them dignity.

Immediate action is needed. The Canadian government must prioritize the construction of a sustainable water treatment facility for Neskantaga, allocate necessary funding, and involve indigenous leaders in decision-making processes. These steps are crucial to uphold justice and ensure equality for all Canadians.

We call upon Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Minister of Indigenous Services Patty Hajdu to urgently address this crisis and rectify the years of neglect. Neskantaga's voice must be heard, and their right to clean water must be realized.

Sign this petition to demand that Canada fulfills its promise and delivers clean, safe water to Neskantaga. Together, we can hold our leaders accountable and support the rights of indigenous communities. Let's not wait another day to act.