What are the rights of the River?

The Rights of Nature movement has been gaining ground in many countries and regions. New Zealand recognized the legal personhood of the Whanganui River, and Ecuador enshrined the rights of nature in its constitution. Recently, the Innu and MRC of Mingan jointly signed a declaration for the rights of the Magpie River in northern Quebec.

This global movement is based on the idea that nature, including rivers, forests, and other ecosystems, have intrinsic value and rights that should be upheld during human intervention and use. For the Gatineau River, legal designation would also show respect for the cultural and spiritual significance of this vital waterway.

Please review the statement of rights and consider signing to show your support.

Check out our Resources page to learn about the Rights of Nature movement.

“This [legal personhood of Gatineau River] is a crucial next step in the fight for water justice.”

— Maude Barlow, author of Still Hopeful and regional and international water protector

  • World Water Day panel with Yenny Vega Cardenas, Maude Barlow, Gilbert Whiteduck and Rita Jain

    Dialogue

    A great celebration of World Water Day and discussion at the Rights of the River event, 2024.

  • an illustration of hands holding water for a water personhood art project.

    Education

    "The kids get it. They know that water is life. They understand deep in their hearts that we have a responsibility to take care of water." (Worldchanging Kids art project, 2024)