By Briseis Kenny, Mackenzie Mountain School, Norman Wells, NT
After 100 years of oil production in Norman Wells, Imperial Oil announced the closure of its refinery. Dene Elders gathered to discuss the impact of a century of industrial activity.
Briseis Kenny of Mackenzie Mountain School offered to write a story about the gathering.
Day 1: Elders gathered around maps and noted traditional hunting and fishing spots. 350 oil wells are spread across the land and six artificial islands have been built in the river.
Day 2: Imperial Oil staff gave a presentation. The Elders asked: How can the facility be dismantled so the land is not contaminated? The company does not yet have an answer.
Imperial Oil staff led a tour of the oil facility. The Elders asked: How will Imperial remove the artificial islands pumping oil from under the river? The company does not yet have an answer.
Day 3: Leon Andrew (left) said: “It is young people who will have to step up. Can we take a positive step, educating our youth in both traditional knowledge and science?”
Briseis talked with the Elders, collecting their ideas. After the gathering, she wrote a newspaper article describing the issues her generation will have to solve.
