Bawating Idle No More peaceful, determined, unified (photos, video)
Sunday, January 13, 2013 by: Darren Taylor
About 400 peaceful but determined and unified aboriginal protestors and their allies took part in a First Nations Idle No More rally in Sault Ste. Marie’s downtown core Friday afternoon at the corner of Queen and Elgin Streets.
The gathering was one of the largest in the country, as First Nations officials protested the federal government’s Bill C-45, which is considered by Canadian aboriginals as an attack on First Nations’ territories and rights.
The rally took place as the eyes of the country were awaiting a much-anticipated meeting between Prime Minister Stephen Harper and First Nations leaders.
Attawapiskatt First Nation Chief Theresa Spence, currently on a hunger strike, has fasted since December in an encampment near Parliament Hill in an attempt to raise awareness of First Nations concerns with Bill C-45, and in an attempt to arrange a meeting with Harper and Governor-General David Johnston over those concerns.
Spence, and many First Nations leaders gathered in Ottawa, strongly objected to the fact that the Governor General did not agree to join a Harper-First Nations meeting, instead inviting First Nations leaders to a separate meeting at his official residence at Rideau Hall.
To the surprise of many, Spence gathered with about 100 First Nations leaders at Rideau Hall today to meet with the Governor General.
The Harper-First Nations meeting Friday promised more “high-level dialogue” on First Nations’ concerns.
Locally, Missanabie Cree First Nation Chief Kim Rainville told SooToday.com at Friday’s downtown rally that today’s event “is a first step.”
Regardless of the desperate nature of Spence’s hunger strike, Rainville told us “the changes that need to happen are changes that are going to take time, and it’ll likely take generations. We need to do this peacefully, but there needs to be an acknowledgement that we are a sovereign and autonomous people. This is becoming more apparent.”
Rainville acknowledged there have been “positive changes for First Nations people over the past 20 to 30 years,” but that Friday’s meeting with Prime Minister Harper “is only a first step…there has to be a willingness from the federal government to acknowledge that we are an autonomous people, with a right to our own determination.”
Rainville told us “I visited with Chief Spence early in her hunger strike, prior to Christmas. She’s a courageous leader for our people and her community.”
There was no shortage of unity at today’s local rally, however, there has been division between First Nations leaders at the national level regarding the Idle No More movement and its’ objectives.
Regardless, Rainville said “let’s remember this is a grassroots movement, that there is unity among the people. There are politics in play, and that includes First Nations leaders. We too are going to have to come to a place where we are willing to put our politics aside and recognize there is power in our grassroots movement.”
Dan Beaupre, a native of Michipicoten First Nation and one of Friday’s rally organizers, told SooToday.com “we’re waiting to see what will happen today between Stephen Harper and our leaders, then we’ll get together and discuss our next protest.”
Sensing that Friday’s meeting between the Prime Minister and First Nations leaders is only a formal first step in intensified talks between the federal government and First Nations leaders, Beaupre told us there will be more rallies planned for January 16.
“The protests are getting bigger. We’re not here to offend any Canadians, we’re here to raise awareness and save our lands and waters.”
“Stephen Harper is trying to set the agenda and that’s not what this is about. We want him to meet with us on our terms, not on his terms, we’ve had enough of his terms. This is not going to stop. This will continue for years to come,” Beaupre said.
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although i can understand some of what is happening ..i dont care for politics my own choice , peaceful demonstrations ..ok but why inconvience the general public with road closures that doesn't affect governement it affects the general public....when people protest abortions they stand on sidewalks when school teachers protest they stand on sidewalks...just my 2 cents worth
Seems that those who are uneducated and ignorant to the real story usually have the most to say! I'm here in Ottawa and seen Chief Spence and her many supporters after the meeting with the Govenor General. Seems like there is getting to be a big divide between the Natives that want to rise up and become self supporting and eventually self-sefficent and the other "Queens Indians" who do nothing more than kiss the Government's A** for handouts, and of course the Government is trying to play puppett master yet again!!
I wonder what Skeigs is referring to considering the protest on the 16th was already cancelled. It makes me wonder if one of the teachers unions was planning another "protest" on the 26th.
I'd also point out the editing of the info on this site. I almost expect this site to delete this comment calling out how articles are "edited" to avoid ramifications. (meaning one of the pushers of our news is actually part of said Union)
200 year old treaties will be coming down methinks. Canada and her resources will be reclaimed, it is just a matter of time. Paying taxes to someone who continues to misuse funds will not be acceptible no more in this country and as a hard working tax payer we are fed up with the handouts.
TO THE COACH, TREATIES WILL NOT BE BROKE, THEY CAN'T BREAK AN AGREEMENT, ITS AN AGREEMENT AND A SIGNED DOCUMENT ON RECORD. DO YOU THINK THEY CAN JUST ABOLISH THE CHARTER OR THE CONSTITUTION? IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN.
"We’re not here to offend any Canadians, we’re here to raise awareness and save our lands and waters.” News flash- YOU ARE OFFENDING and INCONVENIENCING regular hard working Canadians...
"About 400 peaceful but determined and unified aboriginal protestors took part in a First Nations Idle No More rally in Sault Ste. Marie’s downtown core Friday afternoon at the corner of Queen and Elgin Streets."
First paragraph of Sootoday news article 'unified aboriginal protestors' - is this racist? Where there not others that are not of the First Nations? Why is the media still calling this a First Nations Idle No More rally? Have they not asked everyone to join in as the bill will affect everyone in Canada. It is time to change the wording and refer to it as Canada's Idle No More movement, especially if this is to move forward, gaining more people willing to stand up for everyone's rights in Canada. Many others would probably be willing to participate if it was generally publicized in a different manner and was not always referred to as only about the natives.
I'm very concerned that if the government doesn't take this movement seriously enough then things can get very rowdy. I wouldn't be surprised when they actually start to riot. Then the army will get involved and all hell will break loose. Lets hope that Harper has the common sense to see what can happen if he doesn't handle this properly .
This previous poster is right. Thank you. This is a logical cause which all Canadians are starting to realize and the outcome affects us all. Please sootoday, do edit the article. It is not just a first nations event. The are the original organizers and I fully intend to be an active part with my Canadian soil brothers and sisters next rally. The plaque card will likely say...."As Canadians....we will Idle No More!"
If they continue to illegally block the rail and roads, the government should impose martial law with the military and restore order! Where are the politicians with guts? Trudeau did it in Quebec with the FLQ! The FLQ were Terrorists and as far as I am concerned anyone who detains me against my will and restricts my rights under the Constitution Act ARE TERRORISTS TOO!
A protest doesn't have to cripple or economy because the few are unhappy with certain political aspects?! Settle your gripes legally in Court like the rest of us.
You can raise awareness to your cause many ways without resorting to these illegal tactics?!
And quit disguising Idle No More as Harper doesn't care about the environment? Please.... it is all about control of money.
I'm a little confused about the treaty issues. Are some of you people suggesting that the treaties should be ignored or renegotiated because they are 200 years old? Because if you are, that's ridiculous! As a very simple example - If I sold my house 30 years ago for $50,000, I can't go back to the owner and tell him that I now want to renegotiate the sale at today's price, or, that I want my house back! Firstly, these treaties are legal documents and therefore, should be adhered to. If both parties mutually agree to review some of the terms, then so be it. But, you can't force one or the other to change the terms. Secondly, they can't just pick and choose which ones are favourable and which aren't. If the government should agree to renegotiate any treaty, then everything should be on the table, including existing rights, benefits, payments, etc. Throw everything out and start over! I realize that the issues are far more complicated that this and I can understand the FN taking a stance on new issues going forward, but, what was agreed to in the past, should be honoured...by all parties.
Highway 1----news flash. First Nations are NOT tax payers. They are tax exempt except for when they work off reserve. Anything they purchase except for LIQUOR is tax free.
As for Chief Spence. That is NOT a hunger strike. As some in the media are NOW starting to call it a FAST. Some are now calling it a diet. A hunger strike is when YOU DO NOT TAKE ANYTHING EXCEPT FOR WATER. All you have to do is google1981 Irish Hunger Strike where 10 members of the IRA died from a Hunger Strike. They did NOT have broth, tea or whatever Ms Spence is taking. They only sipped water.
I can not believe that some people waste their time commenting and whining they way they do on here. They informed the public about the protest and where it would be. I had to go downtown and guess what? I took a different route, don't hear me crying. I did not get inconvenienced at all and when I did see the protest I felt proud for Sault Ste. Marie! The only thing that makes me ashamed of the Soo is the way people post racist comments on here. I've had some people tell me about what they have read in the comments section and that because of it they no longer read sootoday but instead they read other online websites, I believe I will do the same from now on.
First of all, First Nations people DO pay taxes, unless they live and work on a reserve. Secondly, you must separate what the Idle No More movement represents from what Chief Spence is doing. THEY ARE TWO SEPARATE ISSUES. Thirdly, I did my own little mini-poll about both situations. Out of 12 people, (not counting me) I asked, NO ONE CARES, have not been following it except for the headlines. Are fed up with native DEMANDS.
I will never support a cause that requires me to disrupt the daily lives of ordinary citizens against their will. I will never support a cause that includes a criminal chief that persecutes her own people . She is a criminal , plain and simple and the RCMP will come a calling because the citizens of this country will be insisting that the government continue the investigation. Natives have a way of trying to include non natives in their fight. This is a fight for all canadians , ya right. The chiefs themselves are divided and many are condemning the Idle no more movement. I read the bill and it gives natives the right to lease their lands and reap the wealth that many of the first nations are already enjoying in the western provinces.. Why are natives themselves divided? This movement is doing nothing else but dividing this country. Some first nations want self government while others do not. This is a joke and it is about time that the cowards in our police force start enforcing the law.
Lol!!! You choose to make fun of someone for their sign and yet you think loosing is a word!!! Haha it's losing!!! Maybe you should grammar and spell check your work first before you make fun of someone else!!! LOL
Your comment was racist, making fun of the way you think a group of people talks " dem treaties"
I agree with others on here. Why hinder the rest of us who dont care about your cause? I know lots of people in those pictures. Many of then have never worked a day in there lives. I need to get to work freely to support my family.
Peaceful is one thing annoying the public is another. agreements can be broken and we have a right to know where are tax dollars are going. If you guys went back to the tee-pee and buffalo hunt i could agree. But keeping our tax dollars a secret fron us is not a good thing. If you have nothing to hide then let the Gov have some insight.
Very honorable to make a stand and I've made adjustments to get to my job when you have blocked the roads that my city taxes go to build but when comments are made to the media from chiefs meeting with Harper that if you don't get action then you will bring Canada to it's knees is going a step up from peaceful protests and meetings. Quite a threat.....threatening to block railways, bridges and borders and bring our economy to it's knees. They should feel fortunate when making such threats to the National security of our country that they aren't locked up. Stay focused on what it is you want and don't step out of your boundaries and threaten the nation that is free and the best in the world and has everything from lots of food, jobs, roads, protection, law and order, hospitals, education and so on. Don't threaten but rather work with and be part of the solution....put something into the country instead of always trying to take away.
When commenting on the situation outside of Garden River where road and rail was blocked, Chief Davies said there was nothing that could be done because it was on their land. Well this nonsense on Queen Street is not their land. Lets stop this going forward. No other group could get away with it.
I would like to propose that our Federal Government Rep prepare a list of all the benefits that are provided. And for a people who are always demanding respect I am sickened to see them flying the Canadian Flag upside down. If someone else tried that they would be racist and prejudicial. Lets look at all the good we have....What a sense of entitlement everyone has....And the Skiegs comments suggest that because one group doesn't agree with him, they are wrong. We have the best country in the world and we have this nonsense. Let's stop being so overly sensitive and get on with life. That includes saying Merry Christmas too. This whole ordeal is a disgrace and an embarrassment to all Canadians.
I am fed up with all the 'double standards' used in what the natives are doing. They say that their demands, blockades, etc is not involved with the crooked chief Spence, yet they praise her as if she is a saint. How can anyone praise a person that steals money from their own people?? I also oppose ANYONE who threatens other people & OUR GOVERNMENT, if they do not give in. Threatening is a crime, BLOCKING Highways & Railroads is a crime, & trying to cripple our Government is a crime & Terrorist act - & these people have 'NOT' been arrested for their criminal & terrorist acts. It is time that ALL THESE DOUBLE STANDARDS be changed so that ALL PEOPLE WILL BE CHARGED, not just some. It's time that our Government steps up & lays charges before bigger problems arise. I feel as if myself, my fellow Canadians & my Government are being held hostage & it should be stopped by any means. We have Police doing nothing, so the Soldiers should be brought in to stop all this garbage. If anyone else pulled these criminal & terrorist acts they would be arrested pronto & put in jail for a long time. That is 'A Definite Double Standards' that needs enforcement. I feel that my comments are not Racist, but will be removed because the truth always hurts & the News Outlets are one sided. It's just my opinion...........
There is one person in that picture wearing a triservice cap badge on a beret. how can they be against Canada and wera a military insignia? I thin k we need to plan a protest to the Rez and indian friendship center that shows are problem with the way they conduct themselves
Oh j&s2006, glad to see I'm still in your head lol no other comments to make but that, fixation I guess!!! But the attention span of a gnat I see since you have already forgotten that I've told you before I'm white!' lmao and it is truly sad to see someone make fun of someone for their intelligence and then go on to make a grade 5 mistake themselves lol
And to those who continually say let's have the natives go back to the way they were and trap and fish etc, do you think we should also give the land back as well... Can't have it both ways
Hey folks, you want to see real numbers go to Ezra Levant, he hides nothing and tells us what is going on. Some of the comments at this site will be quickly changed because Ezra deals with facts.
Waaa my life sucks I have to go to work and still have no money, so I want the natives lifes to suck too.
Its ok for a white lawyer to make $500 an hour, but how dare an indian make $850 a day.
It's ok for Harper to spend billions of tax money on jets that we don't need and send billions to countries for foreign aid to help, but how dare we spend my tax money on poor Indians.
Wake up people. The government is trying to make Chief Spence look bad. Ask yourself this question: If Chief Spence really stole millions of dollars and ripped off her people, what kind of person would do that? A greedy selfish person right. Chief Spence is on a hunger strike/ fast for her people. She is willing to die for her people. What kind of person would do that? A humble, unselfish person right. I see her living in a teepee on a hunger strike in the Canadian winter, that is a fact. The government is trying to make her look bad obviously, and your buying the lies that Harper is telling you. If she was stealing millions she wouldn't be bringing attention to this situation she would be vacationing down in the carribean. She is a real leader willing to die for her people. Ask yourself this: In your electoral system when you go to vote and put an "X" beside the name running in the election, Is that person willing to die for his people? Is Harper willing to die for his people?
Are the First Nations divided. They have different opinions just like our political system, we have CONServatives, liberals and NDP and even in each party they don't always agree so why do we think all natives think the same way.
Whether you support them or not they are protecting this land and waters for their children and also your children and grandchildren.
When ever you see a protest whether it be idle no more or teachers strike, support them because if it wasn't for people like that to stick up for rights, you wouldn't have any!!! You would be a slave. Shorter work weeks, womens rights, child labour laws, black people sitting at the back of the bus etc. were all possible because people stood up and said enough.
Now the Harper government is trying to rape this land of resources and leave a toxic dump. Well people are going to say stop and then protest and court cases, and people are willing to die to protect the land for the future generations.
When all the trees have been cut down, when all the animals have been hunted, when all the waters are polluted, when all the air is unsafe to breathe, only then will you discover you cannot eat money. ~ Cree Prophecy
Highway, every since Davis was in power,if FN purchased something off reserve, it was up to the FN person to report it, do you think they did. If you have a status card, you do not pay taxes on anything purchased. I have friends who are FN, and they tell it as it is. If you work off reserve, then you do pay taxes. Liquor, you have to pay taxes.
I wikipedia Ezra Levant, seems he is a racist, and has been investigated for hate crimes. Are you sure this is somone you want to get your news from? Are you in the KKK or something?
I am all for saving Mother Earth, at any cost. As a Canadian, I support the FN movement as of late and will continue to do so. It is an honor to support a group of people that have the balls to actually say something about the future of our precious resources. Good luck FN. If anyone can make a difference, it will be you and your supporters.
Levant is far from being a racist. He speaks his mind on many topics, uses fact, and is often accused, usually by the left, of being racist. I think the accusation of hate was brought on by the Muslim extremists. Anyway, because one doesn't agree with how people handle their affairs, doesn't necessarily make them racist.
I'm seeing the separation between Brown and White again, like our races are two different sides or something. That is not the case. Brown, White, Black, and everything in between, we are all being screwed by Harper equally.
People already complain about how the steal plant stinks in the west end. How are water is tasting more like chlorine when u get it from the tap and you half to leave it running longer or buy it from a store. NFs protect the Water Protect our Air .Go to espanola where it stinks becuase of there plant go for a nice trip to Toronto where a City is Expanding so much and more Factorys are been made to polute the sky. and smogg warnings. people complain or talk about todays Climate changes to the invirment about global warming and ASK WHY? and whats happening to our Planet the Answer is Easy look around.. Take away ours lands use more Resources but prepare for Changes to the invirment and food the animals and Everything Prepare for the new way. Canada Says there trying to do invirmental changes to go green to reduce polution(Global WARMING). But by digging and draing our lands and pluting our waters and killing are they doing Exactly that? .Take the Trees I Breath The Water I drink add more mercury and Cancer won't be the only thing that destroys us. IDLE NO MORE!
"Idle No More is a grassroots movement started by four indigenous women in Saskatchewan to organize teach-ins about the Conservative government's pending legislation. In early December the Harper government passed a sweeping omnibus budget bill C-45 in which were hidden numerous - largely undiscussed - changes to existing Canadian laws. Most notable is erosion of First Nations' treaty rights without the full consultation and consent required by the Canadian Constitution and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The bill also eviscerated the Navigable Waters Protection Act, weakening environmental oversight for over a million lakes and rivers and paving the way for pipelines and rapid resource and tar sands development, often on traditional First Peoples' lands."
It took me a few days to catch on to all this, but I get it all now. Wish others would take the time to open their eyes and ears and take a look at the big picture instead of being so damn selfish. This is a fight to save our country and planet people. Don't you get it? I do.
freedom 1: it looks like Spence has been eating a steady diet of money for a long time while her people are suffering in abject poverty. Most of these chiefs are nothing but con-artists with an over inflated sense of self. They care little or nothing for their people as long as the money and Escalades are showing up at their upscale homes. I wonder if Chief Sayers flew first class to Ottawa or if he drove his new fully optioned Lexus?
Someone said, when it was suggested that the FN go back to the old ways of living, that maybe "we should we give back the land too"! Well...who said that it was theirs in the first place? Do all the European nations pay the original settlers of their countries? I don't know. And, I'm too lazy to look it up. They've been developed a lot longer than ours. And, where did the FN come from in order to first settle North America? There's a lot of theories that suggest that they crossed over from another continent. So, why are we paying anyway? An argument could be made that this land was never theirs to begin with!
2. Everyone has the following fundamental freedoms: a) freedom of conscience and religion; b) freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression, including freedom of the press and other media of communication; c) freedom of peaceful assembly; and d) freedom of association.
AND........
Equality Rights
15. (1) Every individual is equal before and under the law and has the right to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination and, in particular, without discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age or mental or physical disability.
Myth; FN leaders are rich. Truth; They earn 36k, less than the Canadian average of 46k. Myth; Canada subsidizes the FN who always have their hand out for money. Truth; FN subsidize Canada by tolerating resource extraction from their land. Compared with the 500billion in annual takings from these industries (lumber, fishing, minig, oil) the 9Bn for FN is insignificant. Myth; The cause of the FN problems is the Chiefs corruption Truth; FN governments have the lowest corruption in Canada at 3%. The federal government has over 10% corruption. The cause of problems comes from chronic underfunding and cuts. The cause of the problems stem from several centuries of racist attempts at assimilation and genocide by the Canadian government. Myth; Native people are a thing of the past and should assimilate Truth; First Nations in Canada have never surrendered their identity and culture and have never gone away despite centuries of oppression and genocide. They are alive and well and will not assimilate, and bow to pressures of racism. Myth; FN don't pay tax Truth FN's pay tax.
"Regardless of the desperate nature of Spence’s hunger strike, Rainville told us “the changes that need to happen are changes that are going to take time, and it’ll likely take generations."
66cherokee said it best:
"As for Chief Spence. That is NOT a hunger strike. As some in the media are NOW starting to call it a FAST. Some are now calling it a diet. A hunger strike is when YOU DO NOT TAKE ANYTHING EXCEPT FOR WATER. All you have to do is google1981 Irish Hunger Strike where 10 members of the IRA died from a Hunger Strike. They did NOT have broth, tea or whatever Ms Spence is taking."
Did you catch that SooToday? There is nothing desperate about what Chief Spence is doing -- other, more serious and committed protesters have died in hunger strikes. Your reporting is, at a minimum, biased and laughable.
Chief Spence makes a lot more then 36K a year... her live in common law partner was getting $850/day... she was bringing well over $250,000.00 annually to sit and watch her community crumble and starve.
Maybe the first nations need to take up our governments over to make money to get an education.
correct me if I am wrong but when a native uses their status card (for tax exemption)in a store to buy merchandise, isn't the merchandise supposed to go to the reserve. I don't get how natives living right in the city can buy stuff using a status card or do I have the wrong info?
be careful not to post anything against these protests that sootoday seems to have a nice 'Don Ready" for. Brutal censorship on this joke of a site, i wonder how long t'ill this one is pulled as well. Gotta love 'unbiased' media here.
OMG......Classifed D....your post gave me a headache trying to decipher your spelling.
Well sorry the msg is in there I may not Spell Correctly. But thank god for education provided for me.Helping me with Grammar and my dyslexia. Decipher the government of canada and There Intentions for us,and that may be a greater headache.
freedom1: I could give a rats pattoot if Sayers drove a Rolls Royce. Most of these so-called chiefs tool around in their high-end vehicles while their indentured slaves (read tribe members) live in poverty. A real chief would give the lowest member of his tribe the shirt off his/her back but we all know this would never happen in a clan-centric setting. (Hey look, I invented a new word)
In order to give something you have to have it first, so just wondering where you got a rats pattoot from? Was it part of your lunch? were you born with it? A real chief does take care of the lowest member that is why Chief Spence is a HERO that is willing to die for her people. Do you think Harper is willing to die for you? Harper doesn't care about you, HARPER DOESN'T CARE ABOUT YOU.
Spence is nothing more than a low level grifter. The money disappeared,she whined for more and when the gov't asked for an accounting she went ballistic. Tell me what you would do if a family member came up to you on a Monday and said "Give me $2,000.00" with no questions asked. They then show up on Friday and say "Give me $2,000.00 more". You say "What happened to the money I gave you on Monday?" and the reply is "Kiss my ass, none of your business!" Good way to handle the finances right??
Your rants are very emotional and entertaining. Perhaps you should just seek the facts without the emotion and you might find some balance on this topic.
Your chiefs and councel are just as much politicians as the leaders of this country. "They are all" subject to greed and misrepresentation as much as the other.
I wikipedia Ezra Levant, seems he is a racist, and has been investigated for hate crimes. Are you sure this is somone you want to get your news from? Are you in the KKK or something?
gee i saw a video with ezra levant, it must be true, i saw it on tv! i havent researched this issue at all, ezra did it for me, lets all go watch and believe it too! millionaires club, gimme a break.
better yet, i am against a movement, for the wrong reasons, i dont even know why, and i am on a public forum, arguing with people i dont even know, doing nothing for the cause that i believe in. you keep whining here, the movement will keep moving, lol
I just reread your post, sorry I thought you called me a racist, you actually called me a raciest which is an adjective not a noun, so I guess you meant I was suggestive or risqué... That's a different story!!!! Lol lol lol
to "3rd times a charm" some of us have to work. ----------------- however, I bet you could have taken your lunch hour at 1 p.m.--there sure were a lot of office workers out there, watching the parade of drummers, dancers and peaceful walkers. Ok, I was a little loud, but I always am...
The walk was too far for me...so much so, that a very nice police man asked me if I was ok and offered his help...because I have a broken back...
Again, Wicket is right on--this is not just about treaties, and FN's--we had numerous issues and signs re Bill 115, MMAR, etc.
It's about taking off the rose coloured glasses and realizing that our grandchildren cannot eat money or breath money; your right to collective bargaining is being challenged, treaties that should have been honoured years ago need to be addressed, changes to the MMAR will leave dying people without access to medication--this is bigger than you think.
Am I FN? Well, if you count that our family has been here over 400 years, I'd say yes--but according stats Can, I am European...duh..
However, my niece is Metis. She pays taxes, her own medical bills, her university bills and she does have a status card.
So, ya, I'm siding with all Canadians who give a damn; people who aren't afraid to stand up and be counted as doing the 'right' thing.
The police were on hand and traffic was rerouted quickly, no garbage was left behind, everyone was friendly, talking, singing, chanting and walking, hobbling and crawling to try to make a difference. I believe the extraordinary pain it caused to my body was well worth it :)
When commenting on the situation outside of Garden River where road and rail was blocked, Chief Davies said there was nothing that could be done because it was on their land. Well this nonsense on Queen Street is not their land. Lets stop this going forward. No other group could get away with it _____________________________________
Gay Pride parades, Carribiana parades, funerals, Santa Claus parades, fireworks, downtown street parties all do exactly what you say no other group could get away with--they close streets, inconvenience others and blah blah blah...
Anybody that doesn't want to pay taxes anymore should go down to the corner of great northern rd and second line Wednesday at 630, after work, and block the roads for 30. Think the police or government will let that happen? The treaties are hundreds of years old, everything in them is dated. It was a different era! Wake up! It's 2013! The whole system has to be re-booted, not just native issues. Canada is no nation, not a bunch of little ones inside another.
Attawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence has been on a highly publicized hunger strike for one month in order to draw attention to First Nations issues across the country, including inequality, poor living conditions, and lack of access to resources.
The Idle No More movement, which began in November and quickly spread, is a protest against Bill C-45, the federal government's omnibus bill that proposes changes to the Navigable Protection Act as well as the Indian Act, raising fears it will breach aboriginal treaty rights. The changes to the Navigable Protection Act not only affect the First Nations, but all citizens of Canada.
The FN believe that people will learn that once all the resources of our land are gone we can't eat money. Seems to me the FN have all the money. Guess you won't starve!
You mentioned on another article that they couldn't do this in Toronto, do a bit of research they have done this across Canada they shut down Yonge and dundas ( perhaps the busiest intersection in Canada) some people got out of their cars and joined since they couldn't move anyway. They also blocked bay and Wellington there, there were police officers at Y&D who joined the circle.... So inspiring
Clearly despite the ignorant comments on here, the movement is growing, each demonstration is getting larger and larger... Great to see more people who " get it" and that non natives are beginning to educate themselves as to what the issues really are rather than arguing about who pays what in terms of taxes!! It shouldn't matter how much tax people pay, it would weaken democracy if we started determining how much say people get based on the tax they pay!!!
and this was well organized -- the police had officers at every block to reroute traffic...no one lost more than maybe 5 minutes as there are so many other alternative routes downtown...
This isn't just about FN and treaties--some day, all you nay sayers are going to thank those of us who actually did more than sprout off on a chat board...
3 times a charm, this is a farce. The FN leaders are divided so does harper meet with them individually. Who is the leader of this movement, chief spence. Many , many canadians see this for exactly what it is . A spoiled group of canadians who resort to terrorist tactics to get their message across. And what exactly is their message. i have read the bills and my interpretation differs greatly from yours. I respect harper and would respect him even more if the army was called in to stop the railway blockades and the road blockades by whatever means necessary.These terrorist tactics do very little to help your movement. If you think you have support, i challenge soo today to hold a local poll to see if saultites support the idle no more movement. In reference to chief spence , the writing is clearly on the wall . Her liquid diet can continue but she will not prevail in her attempt to deflect the wrongdoings that she and others have committed.
"terrorists"?!? Well, now that we know the "they don't pay any tax" myth doesn't work any more, maybe "terrorist" will get some traction. That's pretty desperate.
SINIKKA... seriously... you live in a small ass town.. shut your mouth... the land you live on belongs to us..! Your truly ignorant when it comes to FN.. I've been watching and honestly, your negative comments only fuel's the fire for us! miigwetch.. and maybe, hug a native once in awhile!
people that live in small ass towns, have small as minds!! Very rude comments when yet, were only trying to protect the earth...educate yourself non-anishinaabe people and see the real reason on why we are idle no more..
Its obvious some people were raised by hitler families and its said to know the jealousy they have towards us!
Spoiled??? I don't think the intent of residential schools was to spoil them
Chief spence made more Money and lived with greater wealth than her people..... Omg I can't even imagine what it would be like to have a leader whose income far surpasses that of the average citizen. A leader whose people are living in poverty on the streets under housed, it's totally incomprehensible. How could leaders give themselves bonuses at for instance Christmas time when the people they were elected to represent struggle to provide for their families!! Lol
Strange how this sort of thing happens at all levels of government but when it's a chief people act as though it's completely unthinkable!!!
As a grassroots movement, Idle No More does NOT have a leader. Rather it is evolving and reflects the politics, interests and goals of the people who choose to be involved. A grassroots movement springs up spontaneously on the local level where a community feels there is a pressing need for change. This movement is growing and spreading because the need for change is perceived by many across the country, indeed across the continent and beyond.
"The movement has resonated so deeply and spread so quickly because it has a simple message: respect constitutionally and internationally protected indigenous human rights, and protect the environment." (Jan.6, 2013 dailykos.com)
"The movement has resonated so deeply and spread so quickly because it has a simple message: respect constitutionally and internationally protected indigenous human rights, and protect the environment." (Jan.6, 2013 dailykos.com)
so you respect constituionally protected indigenous rights by stopping people against their will and blocking railways.How about the rights of others. Don't know what country you live in but in canada that is terrorism. It sounds terrible when others say it but not so terrible when you do it. I have no problem with indigenous people whatsoever. I think you should protest the government but a peaceful demonstration does not include roadblocks and railway blockades. Since natives are the only ones that are allowed to do this in canada i would label this as spoiled.
I'd love to see a survey - an actual, valid survey done, of the "Idle no more" protestors, as to their knowledge of the FACTS, of what is ACTUALLY in the bill they claim is so terrible. I'd be willing to bet that 98% of them don't really know the facts.
I would love to see a valid survey done, on the armchair commando`s on this site, as to their knowledge of the FACTS, of what is ACTUALLY in bill C-45. I'd be willing to bet that 100% of them don't really know the facts
I've noticed that most news people are reporting chief Spence as being on a liquid diet now. I'm sure if she was on a real hunger striker she would have given in by now or expired. I'm really saddened by the news over the years of reserves living in squalor but at the same time I am confused when I hear Spences boyfriend is getting over 800 dollars a day for I think they say...watching over the finances of the reserve in question. I think instead of watching he should have been working to show the people he was worthy of his EXORBITANT income. Just my humble opinion.
Chief Spence has nothing to do with Idle No More. Idle No More is about Canadians that have the balls to stand up to our government to save our resources instead of selling them to foreign companies. Once our resources are gone, what do we have? I will join this fight to save our resources for generations to come. Thank you FN for starting it. Keep it going, as more and more will start to realize what it is your actually doing, as I have.
3 charms...you forgot Buskerfest, however, I am concerned with the protection of our waterways. Every one knows what happens when mining companies are allowed to run free-reign without being monitored. Every stream, river, pond and swamp become tailing ponds. Look at Elliot Lake and how long it took to clean that mess up. Look down stream from the tar sands. The fish are mutant and uneditable due to the by-product contamination. All without the consultation of everyday Canadians of every stripe. People in the Soo vehemently complain about the PUC screwing up our water supply without consultation.There is no consultation pertaining to wind turbines. The public are invited to information sessions and told what is going to happen. Perhaps we should all get on the band wagon (pun not intended)and join the protest and block off city hall for a day. Protest Davy O's office over the privatization and the lack of access to crown lands. The squeeky wheel gets the grease. It's time to make a noise people. We can't sit back and let the natives do it for us.
I think the Leafs will surprise some folk's this year, even Oldcat. Or, perhaps a die hard Leaf fan, and there's plenty of them, should go on a hunger strike at least till they make the playoffs. Oh oh!!!!!
It`s nice to see the tide is starting to change on the opinions from some on here regarding what the protesting is about and that it affects all canadians. I`m sure there is corruption in some FN bands, muncipal, provincial, and federal governments, but we need to realize that sections in bill C-45 will affect all future generations in this country!
Right now it is peaceful, what will happen when the public finally has enough, (I know what will happen it will turn non peaceful in a hurry) hope it don't come to that but I can see it coming very soon.
Chief Spence is a true Hero. Thanks Chief Spence. It's nice to see so many realizing that the first nations are standing up for all us. Lets all join them in the next protest you too steelworker if you like Canada.
and freedom1, I think I will join in on the next protest. I now really have an understanding for what they're fighting for. I'm gotta get me some bristle board and make an Idle No More sign, and I'll be there.
Any chance to stick it to harper and protect our natural resources is good by me.
C-45 idle no more WAKE UP PEOPLE, to hell with your shinny new play station steering wheel or that piece-o-crap plastic toy you gave an ounce of thought to as to the importance or significance it will have to your already spoiled offspring, THIS IS SERIOUS CRAP. First nations are the only sector of our population with the testicular fortitude. The rest of us have bought into this whole democratic consumptive toxic mindset that has as much value as the plastic crap you put on your credit card... ADOLPH HARPERS' actions would have found him with a bullet to the head if tried this in the states, lucky for him we are preoccupied with important crap like NASCAR stats and the sexual lives of the rich and shameless. Do yourself a favor, look at the global movement around bill C-45 and what it is all about, THEN comment on how the first nations are "sucking the system".
I'd speak my mind about this topic once again but my comments would be removed as people don't like to hear the truth...... Keep waiting for your white buffalo hahahaha......
Myth; The cause of the FN problems is the Chiefs corruption Truth; FN governments have the lowest corruption in Canada at 3%. The federal government has over 10% corruption. The cause of problems comes from chronic underfunding and cuts. The cause of the problems stem from several centuries of racist attempts at assimilation and genocide by the Canadian government. Myth; Native people are a thing of the past and should assimilate Truth; First Nations in Canada have never surrendered their identity and culture and have never gone away despite centuries of oppression and genocide. They are alive and well and will not assimilate, and bow to pressures of racism.
terrorism[ ter-uh-riz-uh m ] noun 1. the use of violence and threats to intimidate or coerce, especially for political purposes. 2. the state of fear and submission produced by terrorism or terrorization 3. a terroristic method of governing or of resisting a government.
This is what it all boils down to.
Damn terrorists. Do what we want or else. It's a shame it's been goin on for so long. Caladonia for example. A treaty was signed by six nations but when they got a burr up their ass they went back to a treaty signed a hundred and fifty years earlier and said. " no, we want this one instead" damn terrorist took over the whole town. Ruined people's homes, businesses and any chance to sell because who wants to move there now anyways. More more more blah blah blah
Teresa spence the thief wrote a will. What a joke. Everyone knows that's all propaganda. If this went on for ten years, that crook would still be alive. The small minds think she's a hero. How naive. She will not die for this cause. She knows she's looking at an eternity of burning in hell for what she's been doing with her time here on earth.
All i gotta say is if whites pulled that kinda crap they'd all get arrested. Everyone wants rights why not fight together instead of for one ethnic group. No one's as free to liberty as they should be. Ate next war should be "the people vs. politicians"
FN governments have the lowest corruption in Canada at 3%. The federal government has over 10% corruption. The cause of problems comes from chronic underfunding and cuts. The cause of the problems stem from several centuries of racist attempts at assimilation and genocide by the Canadian government.
Chief Spence a true Hero
To *VINNY*
Racism? What's racist about wanting the white people to be equal to the rest of Canada? Oh ya, they'll have plenty to lose. They won't have their children stolen from them and raped and tortured or even killed. They won't have their language and culture stolen from them. They won't be able to rape our lakes and rivers and land at will for profit leaving toxic dump. Harper and the rest of the thieves should be thrown in jail. But they want more. White people come take land take children steal resources but not enough, now they want the little piece of land the natives have too, greedy they just take and take and take leaving most people poor including poor white people who instead of blaming the government blame the natives. Ever naive, wake up sheeple. Go worship Harper and kiss his a$$. What the white people did to natives was more than terrorism it was genocide and that is a racist hate crime.
To MelvinMorrow
White people stole are children raped and tortued them and tried to kill us off. All I gotta say is if natives tried that crap they'd all get arrested.
but these are the same white people that you call on to join you in the fight against the government. The comments by some reveals their true stripes but remember they are fighting for all of you. Ya right.
Freedom1 "White people stole are children raped and tortued them and tried to kill us off. All I gotta say is if natives tried that crap they'd all get arrested."
I have yet to debate. This is what you posted earlier. "White people stole are children raped and tortued them and tried to kill us off. All I gotta say is if natives tried that crap they'd all get arrested."
Now let me show you why I called you an idiot. Firstly "are" should be "our", "tortued" should be "tortured", and you are missing a few commas. Also your post is filled with racism and random false facts. White men didn't "steal" children and "torture" them. Atrocities happened, but you are taking it a bit overboard. And then you say "if natives tried that crap they'd all get arrested."
Well I would have to say if anyone tried that crap then they would be arrested, and rightfully so.
the purpose of the trearies were so we can grow together and thrive as healthy society. I was taught by my father to never put your hand out becuase children may pickup what they see! Is the federal goverment a healthy parent? Education is the ticket. We as first nations peoples are now educated as our old people requested. I hope the federal goverment sticks to their commitment and educates themselves how we think! My education was not free! my ancestors shared resoures so thier future children could would part of the solution and not the problem. I have payed taxes my entire life. Oh, by the way, I like players smooth regular when they are not!!!! $14.00 dollars a pack. Goverment!!
I have no comment on what First Nations are trying to accomplish with the government, as I must admit I really don't know anything about it. Nor do I have a problem with them standing up for what they believe in. What I do have a problem with is when they block major highways, causing hardship, loss and inconvenience to those who must use them. Truckers, for example, don't make money when they are "IDLE", and others travel for health reasons, they have NO CHOICE. For these people "IDLE" is not an option. Work is!
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About 400 peaceful but determined and unified aboriginal protestors and their allies took part in a First Nations Idle No More rally in Sault Ste. Marie’s downtown core Friday afternoon at the corner of Queen and Elgin Streets.
