Aboriginal Autonomy and Development in Northern Quebec and Labrador

David Quiring teaches history at the University of Saskatchewan.

This collection of articles appears at an opportune time when issues of
development in northern Quebec and Labrador again capture public
attention. Twenty-three contributors, each knowledgeable about some
aspects of recent developments in this region, deal with issues
confronting northern Aboriginal people. The writers include
anthropologists, academics from other disciplines, and Aboriginals.

Although not primarily a historical work, the book reveals that for
several decades the ambitions of provincial and federal governments have
clashed with the aspirations of the region’s Aboriginal population.
Hydro developments, infrastructure projects, mining, forestry, tourism,
and military exercises have shattered the North’s former isolation.
While national and international news reporters covered many of the
issues that resulted, observers often received the false impression that
governments met the concerns of the area’s original inhabitants.

The authors leave no doubt that much remains unresolved in this
northern region. While various agreements govern development, Aboriginal
people feel that they have not received the promised or expected
benefits. Social and medical problems have also plagued northern
communities. Recently confrontation has characterized the relationship
between powerful colonial governments and the once powerless northern
people. Aboriginals have learned new methods of registering their
disagreement with government actions. Yet, the various articles
demonstrate that resistance often fails to bring the desired results.
Consistently and strongly, this book’s authors rally to support the
region’s people in their battles. None attempts to defend the actions
of government and industry.

Although writing styles vary greatly, ranging from traditional to
postmodern, the concise, well-chosen contributions maintain the
reader’s interest. Some articles focus on specific regional issues,
while others include a helpful larger perspective. Collectively, they
make a significant contribution to our understanding of the issues
affecting the contemporary North.