American Shellfish Company

In Nova Scotia, Mi’kmaq Lobster Fishermen Fought to Save Their Way of Life

"A major North American shellfish company became central to a late-developing economic response: Mi'kmaw leaders negotiated a deal with an industry partner to purchase the company, giving a coalition of Mi'kmaw First Nations 50% ownership when the company changes hands. In a now-deleted statement the company said it "denounces racism in all forms" and asserted that "Neither Clearwater nor any of its employees are involved in these protests. We appeal for calm on all sides to ensure the safety of everyone involved." Chief Terry Paul—who helped lead the coalition—said, "In order to be in business, you first have to play the game," and, "You have to play to win, and we won." The deal was framed as an economic counterpunch to the mobs that primarily sold to that company." - Ivy Knight