Seven Fallen Feathers

01The Unveiling: Introduction to the Northern City

The Northern City, colloquially known as Thunder Bay, is a place of stark contrasts. It is a city steeped in rich history, yet marred by a complex socio-political climate. The city's narrative is a tapestry woven with threads of conflict, tension, and systemic racism, all of which have left indelible marks on its indigenous population. The city's origins trace back to the Ojibwe people, the original inhabitants of the land. Their peaceful existence was disrupted with the arrival of European settlers, leading to a tumultuous history marked by the signing of the Robinson-Superior Treaty in 1850. This treaty, intended to safeguard the Ojibwe people's rights to their land and resources, was dishonored, setting the stage for a long-standing conflict between the indigenous population and the settlers. The systemic racism in Thunder Bay is not a recent phenomenon but a deeply entrenched issue that has been perpetuated over generations. The indigenous population has been consistently marginalized and discriminated against, leading to glaring socio-economic disparities. The city's indigenous youth, in particular, bear the brunt of these challenges. They grapple with a lack of access to quality education and healthcare, and are plagued by high rates of substance abuse and suicide. The tragic deaths of seven indigenous high school students between 2000 and 2011 underscore the systemic racism and indifference that the indigenous population faces. These students, who had to leave their families and communities in the remote north to attend high school in Thunder Bay, died under circumstances that were largely ignored by the city's non-indigenous population. Their untimely deaths serve as a grim reminder of the city's deep-seated racial issues. The city's racial tensions are further exemplified by specific incidents, such as the case of Barbara Kentner. Kentner, an indigenous woman, was fatally injured by a trailer hitch thrown from a moving car. The local police's treatment of the incident as a minor offense sparked outrage and protests, further highlighting the city's racial divide. The role of the local police and their relationship with the indigenous community is another critical aspect of Thunder Bay's narrative. The Thunder Bay Police Service has faced criticism for its handling of cases involving indigenous people, with allegations of neglect, mishandling of investigations, and racial profiling. The strained relationship between the police and the indigenous community is a recurring theme, further emphasizing the city's racial tensions. In conclusion, the Northern City is a place of profound complexity. Its history is a testament to the resilience of its indigenous population, who continue to endure systemic racism and socio-economic disparities. The city's narrative serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for reconciliation and justice for its indigenous population.