Looking back on the legacy of the Agreement in Principle
The James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement was signed November 11, 1975. The year leading up to the historic signing consisted of some of the toughest negotiating in Cree history by some of our most revered leaders.
The signing of the Agreement-in-Principle on November 15, 1974, a year before the final signing of the JBNQA, effectively ended the dispute over the James Bay hydro-electric mega project which threatened our land and our traditional way of life. Defying all odds, an Indigenous group had successfully negotiated the recognition of Aboriginal rights leading to the first modern-day treaty in Canada, These negotiations were nothing short of historic, reshaping the future of our Nation and marking a turning point in the relationship between the Cree Nation and the governments of Canada and Quebec.
Demonstrating that we were not mere bystanders but rightful stewards and protectors of Eeyou Istchee, our leaders, with great vision and determination, worked tirelessly to ensure that our voices were heard and that our rights were recognized.
Marking this important milestone, we look back with pride on the strength and resilience of our past leaders, and we celebrate the enduring legacy of their efforts. This is a time for us to remember the path that brought us here and to honour their vision, fighting for our rightful place at the table and creating the partnerships and alliances we benefit from today.
Throughout the upcoming year, leading up to the 50th Anniversary of the JBNQA on November 11, 2025, the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee)/Cree Nation Government invites everyone across Eeyou Istchee and beyond to join us in commemorating these important dates in our history, celebrating our resilience as a strong Indigenous Nation.
Photo credits:
15 novembre 1974, BAnQ Vieux-Montréal, Fonds La Presse, Pierre McCann.