The Twilight of the Cree Hunting Nation [Editors' title]

Abstract

The James Bay Cree have been able to adapt to and integrate their hunting life-style with the changes brought by non-Cree North Americans partially because of the ecological stability they have been able to help to maintain on their lands. Prioritizing the land and its resources are touchstones of the Cree's security and vitality. Their vision and practice can be a model for other North Americans who are struggling to rebuild a balance with their environments and society. Crees should be a model for those who propose to develop natural resources in the James Bay region, especially the developers of the recently begun James Bay hydroelectric project. So far, the James Bay Cree's reactions to the project have not been understood, much less dealt with, by developers and governments.