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Carney’s Investment Summit Draws Protests by Indigenous Leaders, Eco Groups
Hundreds of executives and asset managers attended as critics said the $1 trillion investment push could sideline Indigenous communities and speed privatization.
On Monday, hundreds of executives and global asset managers gathered in Toronto for Canada's first-ever national investment summit, where Prime Minister Mark Carney aims to attract $1 trillion in new investment over the next five years.
Indigenous leaders and environmental groups are mobilizing protests against the event, arguing the summit prioritizes privatization and risks Canadian sovereignty, with demonstrators planning to gather outside the opening gala.
Hereditary Chief Moks criticized the push for major projects, saying Carney is "blackmailing the public" to protect against American trade policy, while Dogwood spokesperson Kai Nagata warned against selling assets to American billionaires.
The Toronto Police Service confirmed on Monday it is prepared for demonstrations, emphasizing that "the right to protest does not extend to violence, threats, property damage or other criminal activity."
AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak urged investors to engage directly with First Nations, stating, "Gone are the days of First Nations being only the bricklayers for big companies," to avoid costly legal battles.