Fishing in Contested Waters

The book offers an in-depth look at the conflicts arising from the Mi’kmaw fishery following a pivotal Supreme Court decision. Fishing in Contested Waters examines the resulting violence and community dynamics.

The book Fishing in Contested Waters delves into the complex and often tumultuous relationships surrounding the Mi’kmaw fishery in New Brunswick, Canada. Following the landmark Supreme Court of Canada's 1999 Marshall decision, which affirmed the treaty rights of Mi’kmaw fishers, tensions escalated dramatically. The decision allowed Mi’kmaw fishers to engage in the inshore lobster fishery, igniting violent confrontations with local non-Native communities and government authorities. The aftermath was marked by destruction and hostility, with incidents of arson, physical assaults, and barricades forming as the community grappled with the implications of the ruling.

Through twelve months of ethnographic research, Fishing in Contested Waters provides a nuanced exploration of the conflict's origins and the deeply held beliefs of those involved. Author Sarah J. King intricately weaves together the perspectives of both Native and non-Native individuals, illustrating how the community is viewed as a contested space. This examination goes beyond mere events, delving into the philosophical, environmental, and religious dimensions that shape identities and rights in this context.

Ultimately, Fishing in Contested Waters serves as a critical analysis of contemporary issues surrounding sovereignty, conservation, and identity. By focusing on the dual narratives of the Mi’kmaq and the surrounding communities, King sheds light on how differing interpretations of the Marshall decision have led to a profound and ongoing struggle for recognition and understanding.