Energy development and sociocultural inequality among First Nation Peoples

We use social impact assessment techniques and theoretical frameworks of bioregionalism, colonialism, and recreancy to examine energy development experiences of Canada’s Gitga’at First Nation and Mikisew Cree First Nation. Although they have different experiences, both First Nations share sociocultural similarities based on their respective bioregional-sociocultural relationships, history of colonialism, and systemic recreancy. We describe bioregional relationships and the importance of traditional culture to community well-being. We argue that European contact and subsequent colonization of Canada’s Indigenous Peoples instilled systemic inequalities that persist today through systemic recreancy. An examination of energy development processes and activities highlights each of these social forces. Our research reveals systemic inequality and systemic recreancy associated with Canada’s energy development and consequential adverse sociocultural and psychosocial impacts experienced by both First Nations. We conclude by examining Indigenous movements toward decolonization and greater self-determination and the potential role of bioregionalism as a strategy in that movement.