The chief of Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek (BZA), located near Lake Nipigon, has initiated legal proceedings against the band councillors who suspended her from her role without pay this summer. The case was brought before the Federal Court after Gladys Thompson alleged that her suspension was unlawful.
The dispute centers around a motion passed on July 13, 2023, at a band members meeting, where councillors, led by Jeremiah Thompson, suspended Thompson pending an investigation into complaints against her. In response, Thompson is seeking reinstatement as the “lawfully elected chief” of BZA, formerly known as Rocky Bay First Nation. Her legal team, based in Winnipeg, is also requesting reimbursement for legal costs and additional relief deemed necessary by the court.
Thompson’s affidavit, sworn on August 6, suggests that the suspension was unexpected and that the councillors acted without proper justification. According to her, the motion to suspend her was introduced suddenly during the meeting, and she left the session before the vote took place.
Jeremiah Thompson, on the other hand, contends in his own affidavit that he had previously signaled his intention to raise concerns about the chief’s conduct during a council meeting in June. He asserts that Thompson was aware of the motion prior to the July meeting and chose to leave instead of addressing the community’s concerns.
The backdrop of this conflict involves the controversial closure of Rocky Bay Child and Family Services (RBCFS), which had been operating in both Rocky Bay and Thunder Bay. Initially intended as a temporary closure, the agency’s operations were permanently halted due to a lack of federal funding. Supporters of RBCFS have pointed fingers at Thompson, claiming she played a role in the agency’s downfall. In her affidavit, Thompson argues that the decision to cease operations was made by the agency’s board, which Jeremiah Thompson leads as president.
Jeremiah Thompson claims that his actions were aimed at ensuring accountability and transparency, stating that a third-party investigation into the chief’s conduct was necessary. He believes that during this inquiry, it was appropriate for her to be temporarily suspended.
The legal proceedings unfolded in a 90-minute hearing conducted via video conference on Wednesday. The court has not yet indicated whether additional hearings will be scheduled or when a decision may be reached regarding the case.
Both parties were approached for comment; however, Gladys Thompson did not respond, while Jeremiah Thompson declined to provide further remarks. The outcome of this legal dispute may have significant implications for the governance of BZA and the community’s trust in its leadership.
