Statement from Chief Lisa Young of Bloodvein River First Nation

November 27, 2025

Today, the Court of King’s Bench dismissed the motion filed by the Manitoba Wildlife Federation (MWF) seeking an injunction against the access checkpoint established by Bloodvein River First Nation (BRFN). The Court’s decision recognizes the validity of BRFN’s concerns about the negative impact of the unchecked flow of drugs and alcohol in our community.

As Chief of Bloodvein River, I am deeply relieved and grateful that the justice system has acknowledged what we have long said: the checkpoint is about protecting the safety, health, and dignity of our people.

For too long, our community has suffered from the destructive consequences of substance abuse, which have threatened the safety and well-being of our families and children. Establishing the checkpoint was not an act of confrontation — it was an act of care. It was our attempt to assert responsibility over our territory, ensure the welfare of our members, and uphold the sovereignty and self-determination of our Nation.

This decision is a victory not only for Bloodvein River, but for all Indigenous communities striving to protect their homes from the many harms caused by addiction and substance-related harms. It reaffirms the right of First Nations to decide what is best for their land, their people, and their future.

The judge also acknowledged the deep connection our community feels to the moose of our traditional territories. For the past several years our Elders and community members have recognized the declining moose population. This is a critical concern for the people of Bloodvein River First Nation due to the essential role moose have played in our community since time immemorial. We will continue advocating for a safe and sustainable approach to moose harvesting in our territory.

We call on the province, regulatory bodies, and all Manitobans to respect this decision — and to support our efforts to foster a safe, healthy, and sustainable community for generations to come.

– Chief Lisa Young

Bloodvein River First Nation

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