Climate Change in Thunder Bay
What we currently refer to as Canada is warming at twice the rate of the rest of the world – but as a country so physically large and geographically diverse, the impacts are not divided evenly. Every region has unique geographical, social, political, and economical contexts, which means there is no single blanket approach to climate change adaptation and mitigation. This is especially true for rural communities, and even more so for Northern Canada.
Thunder Bay* faces several challenges when it comes to addressing climate change. With a population of 110,000, it is an urban centre – but since it’s also 500 kilometres away from the nearest city, Thunder Bay is the regional hub of a very rural area. It is also part of Canada’s North, but is southern enough to have significant climatic and geographical differences from the Territories. Thunder Bay’s context makes it difficult to follow the adaptation and mitigation strategies that other cities employ; similarly, climate activism in Thunder Bay can’t necessarily use the same strategies as the movement in other regions.
So when climate activists decided it was time for a collaborative, cohesive effort against the climate crisis, the Northwestern Climate Gathering looked a bit different than similar events in the south.
What is the Northwestern Climate Gathering
The first difference is right in the name: Gathering. It tells us immediately that this is not going to be a conference that prioritizes lectures or individual skill-building – the term “Gathering” is deliberate in its intention to build community. In November 2023, 170 citizens came together under the theme of Hope and Action to create relationships, share the work they’re doing, and discuss how to approach climate action in the region. Supported by The Youth Harbour’s Assembly Grant, the Gathering created a place where everyone’s wisdom is valued and shared laterally. Local experts, Indigenous Elders, artists, and activists with all levels of experience participated in the discussions and breakout sessions throughout the weekend.
The Gathering was also an opportunity for attendees to honour their emotions and grief about the changing climate. The impacts of climate change are often more pronounced in Northern Canada than in the South, and witnessing these changes in such a short amount of time can create feelings of grief, anxiety, and solastalgia. The Gathering recognized everything that makes the Thunder Bay area unique and encouraged people to connect through these common experiences and emotions.
Outcomes of the Gathering
A major piece of the Gathering’s success is the fact that it allowed for connection between people, particularly intergenerational relationships. People of all ages and with all sorts of experiences hold wisdom, and it’s through sharing that wisdom that the community can create a comprehensive understanding of what climate action can look like in the region. Teenagers, retirees and everyone in between spoke from their experiences and presented their hopes for a stronger Thunder Bay.
A future that values all experiences doesn’t have to be far off – the Gathering proves that. It was a place for artists to share their craft, Elders to pass on traditional knowledge, and academics to discuss current and upcoming research. It gave people who have been working hard on climate change strategies an opportunity to network and create a stronger, more united movement. It emphasized that climate action includes so much more than picketing and marching, and that everyone is welcome and valued.
It’s no wonder that attendees left the Gathering with a distinct feeling of inspiration. The event energized the local movement, and has already facilitated collaborations among people doing climate work in the area. The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is currently showcasing an exhibition of art created at and inspired by the 2023 Gathering, which runs until April 21st. The steering committee – which has doubled in size – is already looking to the future as they prepare for the Northwestern Climate Gathering of 2024.
The Northwestern Climate Gathering is truly a testament to the incredible climate change work being done in the Thunder Bay region. More than that, it’s a testament to the community who cares so deeply about not only the land they live on but also the people they share it with. In an area where urban meets rural and where North meets South, folks have created a shared vision for their future – and for the actions they’re taking to make it happen.
* Thunder Bay is situated on the traditional territory of the Anishnaabeg and Fort William First Nation.
