In Canadian first, Quebec whitewater river declared legal ‘person’ with its own rights

In February 2021, the Magpie River (called the Muteshekau Shipu in the Innu language) in Quebec became the first river in Canada to be granted legal personhood. This designation was achieved through joint resolutions by the Innu Council of Ekuanitshit and the Minganie Regional County Municipality. The river was endowed with nine specific rights, including the right to flow, maintain biodiversity, and take legal action. Guardians were appointed to represent the river’s interests in legal matters. This initiative aims to protect the river from potential industrial developments and reflects a broader movement to recognize the rights of nature.