Grassy Narrows/Asubpeeschoseewagong Anishinabek (“ANA”) First Nation

Grassy Narrows First Nation is located in Northwestern Ontario, approximately 90 kilometres from Kenora, Ontario via Provincial Highway 671. The community is accessible year-round via Provincial Highway 671. The principal languages spoken are Anishinabemowin (Ojibwe) and English. Grassy Narrows First Nation has a registered population of approximately 1,600 (1,000 reside on reserve).

Between 1962 and 1975, the Reed Paper Mill released 10 tonnes of mercury- contaminated effluent into the English-Wabigoon River. This resulted in environmental pollution and the contamination of fish within the river system, a major food source for Grassy Narrows First Nation, which poisoned the people of Grassy Narrows. The effects of mercury contamination are still being felt in the community today.