Police investigate threats to local Idle No More organizer
Tuesday, February 05, 2013 by: Darren Taylor
The sending of a hateful, sexist and threatening letter to a Garden River First Nation woman is under investigation by Sault Ste. Marie and Anishinabek Police Services.
36-year-old Lesley Belleau is a resident of Garden River First Nation, currently enrolled in Trent University’s Indigenous Studies program in Peterborough, Ontario.
Belleau’s sister relayed the letter to her via social media.
The letter was originally mailed to a Garden River address and received Thursday January 31.
Belleau told us the document contained Sault Star and Sault This Week clippings regarding her work with the Idle No More movement.
In an e-mail, she states: “There were drawn guns and penises all over the pictures and the letter wrote: 'You are a dead piece of s---. A good Indian is a Dead Indian. Stay away from the SOO Lesley Belleau'.”
Speaking to SooToday.com, Belleau said: “I was absolutely horrified to think that somebody would take the time to cut out newspaper clippings and deface them with racial comments, as well as comments that were highly sexual in nature. There were drawings of male organs all over it, which is alarming too, that they brought in a sexual element to the threats.”
Belleau says she has been targeted because of her role in organizing recent Idle No More protests on Highway 17 east of Sault Ste. Marie and because she has written numerous articles on indigenous issues, especially those concerning indigenous women.
Belleau told us this is the first such threat she has received, but added her father was the target of threats during the 1990s.
“Whenever anybody takes a step forward to make our voices heard, that’s when people come out and target people who take positive cultural action for indigenous people.”
Belleau told us: “I don’t feel insulted, because I’ve been dealing with these comments for the past 20 years, my whole life, I’m past the point of being insulted.”
However, Belleau states: “there needs to be accountability from these people, its completely irresponsible and racist for them to do this. It about time people stopped targeting indigenous people for having opinions and beliefs and working toward change. This is a prompt for me to speak out more.”
“I’m concerned for the well being of myself and all indigenous people who are the targets of such threats. We can’t let them silence us, because going to a place of silence will create fear among our people that there will never be change.”
Belleau said she is confident investigators are doing their job.
The letter has been fingerprinted by police as part of the investigation.
Constable Sonny Spina of Sault Ste. Marie Police Service told SooToday.com the Garden River detachment of the Anishinabek Police Service will receive any assistance they need in the investigation.
The Curve Lake Anishinabek Police detachment, near where Belleau is currently studying, is also involved in the investigation.
Sgt. Karen Bell of Anishinabek Police in Garden River told us: “We are in possession of the documents that were mailed to her. We obviously are treating this very seriously and right now we’re addressing public safety, which is our main concern. The investigation is ongoing. The document has been fingerprinted.”
There are currently no suspects, Sgt. Bell said.
Bell told us: “Garden River Police will be meeting Sault Police Tuesday evening... they may have received some information in their area.”
Tom_Bom 2/5/2013 8:25:12 PM ReportHope they catch that nut job. Disagreeing with someone is one thing but this is just way too far.
3rd times a charm 2/5/2013 8:25:13 PM ReportI'm so sorry to hear that you had to go through this ...
I hobbled down Queen Street with you not long ago and was proud to stand and shout Idle No More!
Thank you for the work you do,not only for FN people, but for all of us who live on this planet.
Take care and wishing you well.
true canadian 2/5/2013 8:33:55 PM ReportI hope they do find this person,, these issues between Canadians and natives should not be on a personal level, no one should worry about there well being, violence is not the answer, but to be the so called "devils advocate", this is one reason for many Canadians don't protest against the natives, we are worried about the repercussions to our selves or our families, but this stuff should not happen, ethnicity or beliefs should not constitute violence.
Tom_Bom 2/5/2013 8:42:18 PM ReportI agree, the issues between the first nations people and the government shouldn't be mistaken as a personal issue between first nations people and the general population. Otherwise stupid stuff like this happens.
DeeFlems 2/5/2013 8:43:08 PM ReportAlthough I have some passionate opinions about the Idle No More movement, this is horrible and disgusting.
There is nothing wrong with people taking a stand on an issue, but racism and threats of violence are a huge violation of this poor girls life.
Whoever did this needs some mental help, and if it was someone's idea of a sick joke that goes double.
MikeQ 2/5/2013 8:49:17 PM ReportIf it was real, it should be dealt with swiftly.... I can only hope that this isn't some type of false flag to gain sympathy for the movement.
missmya 2/5/2013 8:53:47 PM ReportSending anonymous threats to a woman who is native or otherwise.....that is the definition of Coward.
DOMAR 2/5/2013 9:28:36 PM ReportViolence and threats will not solve anything and that's for the Idle no more protestors and non-protesters in general!!
Peace...
sweetc 2/5/2013 9:35:58 PM Reportsending anonomous threats to ANYONE... is a coward... man woman native or otherwise.. Hope they catch the bass terd.
lowla 2/5/2013 9:43:19 PM Reportthis is a hate crime, and should not come as a suprise to any of the regular readers of this site. There were many unacceptable comments that had to be deleted from this site in the last few weeks that reeked of HATE
B Boy 2/5/2013 10:30:42 PM ReportYes the Soo is a very racist place across ALL races.
But let's let the police do their investigation. There's a chance this is a real threat and there's a chance someone could have staged it to gain political momentum.
Ginga 2/5/2013 11:08:48 PM ReportYes it's very sad I feel bad for the girl. Now what did they really think was going to happen we have chiefs threatening Canada to bring us to our knees people are getting upset it's going to get worse before gets better. Let's live as equal no more treatie problem solved
Johnedater 2/5/2013 11:16:32 PM ReportWhen a person registers on this site they have to provide an email address. I am sure the police will be looking at getting that info. I am sure they will be caught. I am not even sure why SooToday has comment sections at the end of their stories. They must know that people are going to write garbage. People hide behind their user ID's on here but they can't be that dumb to think their comments can not be traced.
Wicket 2/5/2013 11:57:42 PM ReportSorry that her whereabouts were released by the police, the writer of the hate mail obviously did not know where she was living and attending school, but because she was actively involved in the local movement, believed she lived in Garden...now everyone knows where she is.
Please be safe...and know that others who are non-native are also thinking of you.
shaddow 2/6/2013 1:06:26 AM ReportThe chiefs & other natives make threats & nothing happens to them. The natives do as they please, blocks roads & Railroads which is totally unacceptable. They do not listen or abide by the rules of the courts or rules of the land. From ALL actions to date it looks like a screen for their 'Idle No More' organizers & that is creating the hatred against the natives from many people. I feel that the double standards of the laws are bringing this to a 'head' & it will get worst before getting better. Anybody that gets 'double standards' rubbed in their face long enough will rebel as hatred sinks in. I blame the Police & Government for not enforcing the laws at the first encounter. Just my opinion
mac2 2/6/2013 2:02:37 AM Reportginga and shaddow almost seem to think that this is justified?
Sam The Dog 2/6/2013 7:25:29 AM ReportThe more "Idle No More" protests go on, the more the general public will get upset. Now Ms. Belleau is an educated women and Koodoo's to her, but if I was an Organiser of a protest such as Idle No More, I would initiated the protest to whom you are trying to get the attention of. The Protesters are upset with the Government, so get their attention. Why not protest at the Airport when Hayes or Orazetti are trying to board a flight for a Vacation and miss it, that would get thier attention. Protest at the John Rhodes and they miss their kids or grand kids hockey game, that would get their attention. Why upset the general public and bring public opinion against your protest. Do you really think that any Politician cares that John Doe or Jane Doe is held up in a Highway Closure?
Niigaanis 2/6/2013 7:28:01 AM ReportAs I've posted on here before - they (racist)go after our women, children and Elders and perhaps a man if there is sufficient numbers of them to make them feel brave (no pun intended).
Stand proud and strong Leslie!!
Spyyder 2/6/2013 7:30:08 AM ReportI agree with shadow, if a mob of white people blocked commerce or invaded city hall they would all be arrested on the spot. Yes aboriginals are treated by the courts and authorities differently as whites do not have the so called Gladue protocols. Aboriginals and white people should be treated equally, poor upbringing or substance abuse should not be an issue. I'm all for standing up for what you believe in, but this is getting ridiculous, you were heard, something is being done, move on!
Right Winger 2/6/2013 7:50:49 AM ReportI have to say I understand the frustration of the individual, but could not disagree more with their tactic.
But what do the Idle No More organizers expect? They have issues with the current government and its policy. However they go about protesting by taking it out on the general population. The problem is that they have a problem with this government and each and every government that preceded them. We the general population will not be able to appease them by voting in another Prime Minister and Government.
Finally, this threat is not racially based. Its made against a specific race that is protesting issues they beleive in. The threat is against a GROUP. If Local 2251 were doing this you would have people sending letters to Deprat. If the teachers did it their leadership would be targetted.
moem 2/6/2013 8:05:44 AM ReportMac2
I guess you can add Sam the dog and spyyder too!!! It's terrible
People will take every opportunity to give their 2 cents worth to this topic... Hey guys the penny is gone we round down in this case so guess what?? You get to keep your two cents!
This isn't about whether or not you agree with INM, or their tactics, this is about a hate crime. It's good to see that the police are taking it seriously enough to take finger prints, here's hoping he or she didn't see that coming...
Right Winger 2/6/2013 8:07:17 AM ReportWhy is it a hate crime?
Rockwell 2/6/2013 8:19:35 AM ReportI don't believe it
cjborg 2/6/2013 8:22:17 AM ReportBreaking the law deserves to be dealt with quickly and fairly....
You don't have to agree with INM (which I don't) but there is no excuse for threats in our society....
ShawnM 2/6/2013 8:24:52 AM ReportWhat a double standard... Woman who is illegally blocking traffic but does not get investigated or arrested, but someone sends a stupid letter to her and every police resource is over it. Maybe the police should not hold a double standard here and do their job, uphold the criminal code of Canada and arrest these idle no more people when blocking the roads.
Stevie-E 2/6/2013 8:44:34 AM ReportDitto on Right Winger's comment.
Sorry, but if a radical group such as the INM movement feels the need cause this much chaos across the country with their "peaceful" protests, you are bound to catch some static.
I would expect the same from FN if they did something to impede on my RIGHTS as a CANADIAN:
- Like my right to get to work on time
- Like my right to get to the Doctors Office to make it to my appointment that took 3 months to get.
- Like my right to travel freely on CANADIAN (NOT FN) SOIL without running into a blockade, costing me unnecessary fuel costs.
- Like my right as a business owner to not have my shipments disrupted, costing me thousands, maybe even millions of dollars.
- Like my right to hunt and fish within reason so there is wildlife for the hunters of tomorrow.
As I said in the past, FN made their beds with this, now they must lie in it.
Me Myself an I 2/6/2013 9:09:27 AM ReportHow come this is a "hate crime"? If that is the case where were all of you to declair what Ian Agawa did as a "hate crime"?
c_s_bro 2/6/2013 9:14:08 AM ReportYou reap what you sow.
INM has destroyed the support and good will that Canadians of my generation have extended to Indians.
Now, the consequence.
Wicket 2/6/2013 9:16:37 AM ReportWOW!
How would you feel if this was your wife, girl friend or daughter who received this letter?
Who has the double standard?
I don't care how you interpret it, if I was standing up for something I believed in and had life experiences anywhere near to what native women have had at the hands of the white man, and then received a threatening letter such as this, you can bet your last dollar I would be contacting the police, a lawyer and media.
Kudos to her for following what she believes in and from the sounds of it, she is far more intelligent than most of the posters on here....(ya, including me)
Stevie-E 2/6/2013 9:17:21 AM ReportEdit to my first comment (before I had my coffee)
Ditto on Right Winger's comment.
Sorry, but if a radical group such as the INM movement feels the need cause this much chaos across the country with their "peaceful" protests, you are bound to catch some static.
I would expect the same from FN if I did something to impede on their RIGHTS as a CANADIAN:
- Like their right to get to work on time
- Like their right to get to the Doctors Office to make it to my appointment that took 3 months to get.
- Like their right to travel freely on CANADIAN SOIL without running into a blockade, costing unnecessary fuel costs.
- Like their right as a business owner to not have their shipments disrupted, costing thousands, maybe even millions of dollars.
- Like their right to hunt and fish within reason so there is wildlife for the hunters of tomorrow.
As I said in the past, FN made their beds with this, now they must lie in it.
3rd times a charm 2/6/2013 9:17:46 AM Reportginga and shaddow obviously have mental issues to contend with...they are fighting for the Treaties to be honoured...I think 200+ years is more than enough waiting..
And RedWinger and Stevie, you both need to give your head a shake...didn't they just block all of downtown for BonSoo? Don't Gay Pride Days, Carribean Days, Summer fairs etc close roads too?
This is NOT just about FN and Treaties--it is against Bill 115, 45, the new MMPR program and other issues...maybe you need to read something other than this forum...
And I proudly hobbled my way and joined the most recent INM protest downtown on Queen Street---
as usual, our MP and MPP were invisible AGAIN...the cowards were hiding or, and I'm really beginning to think this, there are truly invisible...because that was a perfect photo op for every politician in this city...
and not one of them showed up...again
and not one of you nay sayers showed up to dicuss the reasons why you think the FN and the rest of us should 'bendover'
...one day you will thank us rebels in the world...
remember how Unions developed?
Right Winger 2/6/2013 9:21:31 AM ReportThose "blockades" you refer to are planned and permits issued, once a year. The Idle No More are imposed on the public on more than one occassion in the year. The parades block one street, that you can get around if needed. The blockades other than the ones on Queen St. block travel with no alternate route.
Bad Dawg 2/6/2013 9:22:42 AM Reportwow....i t is not illegal to stage a non violent protest.
It is a crime to threaten death even if it is anonymous.
Together we are stronger, Idle No More!
angler52 2/6/2013 9:24:23 AM ReportI am a 1st Nations Person(Ojibwe)& after a few years of listening & studying the concerns of the Annishanabbi People. If I or anyone else makes a response it would be better to have an (informed opinion) Violence & bullying accomplish nothing more than the same.Take the time to investigate Native concerns because once we do,we will understand that its not just ourselves that "Idle No More" s stands for,but for all of us that are being kept opressed by our own elected Government. I to hope his person is caught & brought to justice!!!
Nats85 2/6/2013 9:30:26 AM ReportI believe "A good indian is a dead indian" comment counts as a "hate crime" comment. Look up the definition of Hate Crime those of you who clearly have nothing else better to do but ALWAYS WAIT for these kind of sootoday articles to come up. Since you're sitting at your computer anyway using up power that us working class people need to work. Also, the comments about this being "fake" and just a "ploy to gain sympathy" is just a disturbed thought and the police should be looking at your names on here. It's not a ploy..more threats like this are happening by mail and are being handled quietly. That person is probably reading this and probably responsible for very similar racial and ignorant comments as up above for this very article...keep wasting your time obessessing over what First Nations people are doing instead of doing something with your own lives.
Right Winger 2/6/2013 9:37:04 AM ReportThat is true, and if this was written just randomly I would agree 100 %. However the statement I beleive is not directed at an Aboriginal person for being Aboriginal. It is written to an Aboriginal person for orgainizing Idle No More Protests.
I agree that the individual who wrote said letter should be punished to the full extent the law allows.
3rd times a charm 2/6/2013 9:39:22 AM ReportSpyyder 2/6/2013 7:30:08 AM Report
I agree with shadow, if a mob of white people blocked commerce or invaded city hall they would all be arrested on the spot
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you make me embarrassed to be 'white'...thank goodness 400 years ago there were FN people in my family to balance me out.
Now, how many times have teachers and students shut down Queen St. and Great Northern Road protesting? Most of those people are WHITE and they were not arrested for stopping traffic...
Easy for you all to sit here and criticize when people like myself pay their own way to Ottawa to actually speak about these issues--that's where I was on the first day Parliament resumed and #1 press conference of the day...(picked up the the Globe and Mail and published online before we got out of the building, CBC and other newpapers called for interviews etc!)
what have you arm chair critics done to improve the planet and stop being CONned again?????? Get out your signs and shut down traffic at Garden River if you're so passionate about stopping people from improving the world we live in--go ahead--do something other than criticize in the safety of your anonymity...
Thanks Wicket...great comments :)
Nats85 2/6/2013 9:40:25 AM ReportThe COMMENT did not say "A Good IDLE NO MORE ACTIVIST IS A Dead IDLE NO MORE ACTIVIST" it said "A good INDIAN is a DEAD INDIAN"....HATE CRIME. Seriously? What do you not get about that?
3rd times a charm 2/6/2013 9:45:58 AM ReportRW, the recent INM protest downtown was legal, the police were present, no motorist was held up for more than two seconds before police directed them to other intersections...again, stop creating non-factual arguments to cover the fact that you don't have a clue what is going on in the 'real world'
Dreamer 2/6/2013 9:59:11 AM ReportFor those of you who think it's to gain support...another threat was received on Rankin Reserve. A company located there received the same kind of threat Belleau did. And that person is not Nishinabe.
!@# 2/6/2013 10:03:10 AM ReportWicket
No one is saying you can't stand up for what you believe in...I applaud you. The problem because WHO you affect. If the problem you have is with the government...why are you affecting me. Like the saying goes...do whatever you want...just don't impose/affect it on me. Protest all you want... I think that is great!! But not when you protest me!! When I have a problem with anything...I go to the people that have created the problem. Now imagine I have a problem with the PUC...but I protest in front of your home to the point you cannot leave....I think...only think... you would be upset...commments like...."What do I have to do with the PUC? Protest in front of the PUC building..." Does the analogy suffice??
Just Curious 2/6/2013 10:03:42 AM ReportSame Old,Same old,from both sides...
!@# 2/6/2013 10:03:56 AM ReportPS. Threats to anyone cannot be tolerated whatsoever!!
Right Winger 2/6/2013 10:04:22 AM ReportI don't beleive the individual is upset with the Indian for being Indian. My opinion.
And 3rd time, just because the police were present does not make it legal. They are present at all their protests.
Again I stated the one on Queen is like a parade and traffic and daily life is only slightly disrupted because of a change in Traffic Flow. Also this is done in front of the MP's office, the representative of the government they are protesting. The blockades at the bridge and on the highways and train tracks do not allow for alternate routes.
Right Winger 2/6/2013 10:04:23 AM ReportI don't beleive the individual is upset with the Indian for being Indian. My opinion.
And 3rd time, just because the police were present does not make it legal. They are present at all their protests.
Again I stated the one on Queen is like a parade and traffic and daily life is only slightly disrupted because of a change in Traffic Flow. Also this is done in front of the MP's office, the representative of the government they are protesting. The blockades at the bridge and on the highways and train tracks do not allow for alternate routes.
Wicket 2/6/2013 10:06:44 AM Reportdreamer, perhaps the person who did the threatening to a non-native person in business on the reserve, ASSumed that because of the location, that the person was native. My, my, how many uneducated ASSumptions are made on EVERYthing and ANYthing that involves natives.
Everyone - Do yourself and the rest of us a favour and EDUCATE yourself before you put your foot in your mouth again.
Dreamer 2/6/2013 10:12:32 AM ReportThats the point Wicket, they do not know anyone just going on the basis of location. I hope they find these cowards.
Nats85 2/6/2013 10:13:04 AM Reporthate crime
Noun
A crime motivated by racial, sexual, or other prejudice, typically one involving violence.
3rd times a charm 2/6/2013 10:14:56 AM ReportWTG Wicket!
here is just one of things FN and my circle of friends are actively fighting for--and it effects each and every one of you--someday you will thank us:
Robofraud Canada
#IdleNoMore .. Environment Commissioner Scott Vaughan discusses his final report to Parliament Video (10:19) .. Feb 5th 2013
This is the face of Harper's Corporate Agenda; and his complete incompetence to safeguard citizens and our land; C-45 and C-38 are 'treasonous' .. Feb 5th 2013
Watchdog 'blows' Redford's and Harper claims that we have a 'world class monitoring system in place' ; Watchdog says their is no plan even to implement let alone to evaluate .. LIES !
"There is a long list of 'urgent' issues; currently $8.3 Billion is required to clean the contaminate the sites that are currently left behind by corporations.
Oil and Gas development is out pacing Environmental Protection and leaves taxpayer's responsible for Corporate malfeasance.
Corporate Liability for a major spill is $30 Million; yet the BP spill in the Gulf cost $40 Billion to clean to date.
Nuclear Liability is $75 Million in the US it is $12 Billion
Oil and Gas Fracking; 200,000 sites across Canada and it is growing and the CPC does not know what are the risks or the chemicals being utilized for the process.
11 Million litres of water being used at each site and 200,000 Litres of chemicals that have already been designated toxic.
In Nova Scotia, 2 tailings ponds have sat for 7 years and radioactive isotopes are now present.
Bills C-38 and C-45 and federal regulators and the changes to the acts have resulted in a high degree of uncertainty bordering on confusion.
These departments do not know the implications of the changes or their effects.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nm2byefcwnY&feature=youtu.be
Read the report:
2012 Fall Report of the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development
http://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/internet/English/parl_cesd_201212_e_37708.html
Environmental watchdog worried about rise of fracking
Better understanding needed of chemicals in process, report says - February 5, 2013
http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/02/04/pol-environment-commissioner...
Suzuki on environment report CBC February 5, 2013
http://youtu.be/9ry3ArurBmo
Environment and Sustainable Development
http://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/internet/english/esd_fs_e_46.html
Global National's coverage of Commissioner's report - February 5, 2013
http://www.globalnational.com/video/index.html?v=A_zhQ4fB_YxJUWqmciyH5HaiyoLa...
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Right Winger 2/6/2013 10:30:14 AM ReportNoun
A crime motivated by racial, sexual, or other prejudice, typically one involving violence
And again I don't beleive the individual "hates" all aboriginal people. His anger may appear to say so, but I think those who are not "for" the Idle No More protests are frustrated, and this is being manifested in many ways. I do not beleive this individual would threatan an aboriginal person if not for the protests.
screaming@rocks 2/6/2013 10:31:37 AM ReportI got to see the picture of this threatening letter when it was posted on FB and it is completely juvenile. I will not be at all surprised if the perpetrators of this "hate crime" turn out to be age 13-16.
Moonshiner 2/6/2013 10:43:15 AM ReportHow does anyone know that this was not a publicity stunt by the idle no more protesters themselves?Its working for them is it not?
sinikka 2/6/2013 10:44:50 AM ReportIf the authorities believe that this threat is real, why post her name, location and university. Before reading this on sootoday i did not even know who Lesley Belleau is . I hold the police force in this country partly responsible. You cannot pick and chose which laws you wish to enforce. How many people complained that they did not wish to be stopped against their will on Canadian highways and they were laughed at. I consider this letter a terrorist threat . However i also consider highway blockades and railway blockades and threats of bringing the canadian economy to its knees terrorist threats as well.
3rd times a charm 2/6/2013 10:56:46 AM Report{face palm}
there is just no fixing stupid...
Bad Dawg 2/6/2013 10:57:50 AM ReportRW..... Please read Section 2 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Your starting to write like an uneducated twit that just wants to argue!!
Right Winger 2/6/2013 11:03:59 AM ReportOK now what?
a member 2/6/2013 11:12:18 AM Reportcivilization is a illusion
Bad Dawg 2/6/2013 11:15:37 AM ReportNow you can go to the city and complain that there is only one way out of town going east. Go bitch and complain to them, you have a better chance of winning that fight.
As long as the Gov't keeps "sticking it" to people there will a brave few to stand up for what is right. And to anyone else who has a negative comment towards FN.... Well you can always go back to where your ancestors came from!!
Wicket 2/6/2013 11:16:49 AM Report3Tac, some are stupid, but they cannot be faulted because they were born that way and there is nothing that can change that.
However, all the ones that refuse to read and educate themselves on how all of us will be affected in the future by today's government choices, the ones that have tunnel vision, the ones that are left or right extremists and can't see past the end of their nose, the ones that think (and believe) that nothing the government does will affect them, are the ones that spue forth their venom and ignorance - not just towards natives but anyone that is, in their eyes, 'different' than them.
Bigots and judgemental people abound, probably in numbers, more than racists.
KMF61MCF 2/6/2013 11:16:58 AM ReportFreedom to express ones opinion is one thing BUT receiving a Death threat is Not acceptable. Hope the Police take this serious and find out who sent this.Real smart publishing where she attends school. What the he## are you people thinking.
moem 2/6/2013 11:19:53 AM ReportRightwing
Perhaps the same could be said for Dr King, perhaps it was simply the movement he was involved in that garnered him all of the hate, rather than his race!
Right Winger 2/6/2013 11:22:28 AM ReportWe have been provided two roads to leave Sault Ste Marie heading east. Our right to mobility is not impeaded by the government, but by Idle No More Protestors.
Again Protest all day in front of The Parliament, or even Brian Hayes' office. Just don't impede our rights to mobility.
Dreamer 2/6/2013 11:32:33 AM ReportRW I thought you were smart? Why complaint on here? Complain to Hayes!
Bad Dawg 2/6/2013 11:32:51 AM Reportyeah way down in Sec 6... you have every right to move freely in this country. It is also our right to freely occupy that same location. We are only asking for our right to share, you want to drive on it we want to stand.
And no where in Sec. 6 does it state you have the right to the road.
Right Winger 2/6/2013 11:33:34 AM ReportWhy complain to Hayes when I don't agree with the protests?
RichyRich 2/6/2013 11:47:27 AM ReportHow about we give this a rest already. INM supporters love the publicity and 'the white men' as we are called who understand evolution is a part of the economics of society continue pour gas on the fire by coming on here to drill down as much as we can to argue about such rubbage. Agree to disagree. INM are not protesting peacefully and someone from the white men's side has reacted inappropriately. I sincerely apologize on behalf of the reject that wrote that letter and hope they recieve the proper punishment.
Bad Dawg 2/6/2013 11:56:02 AM ReportGo celebrate Columbus Day, walk into someones house and say you live there now??
If you don't like it here we can always load up the boats and send all of you back!!
Nats85 2/6/2013 12:08:42 PM ReportIt's fairly clear RW that the person has a "hate" for First Nations people regardless of the protests or not. Just because the Teachers strike and my kids couldn't go to school (or when I was attending College they had strikes) didn't mean I sent threats to teachers just out of anger and sent cut out pictures of them from the sault star with guns and said "A good teacher is a dead teacher". Don't talk so dumb on here because you usually present yourself as a fairly intelligent person but your defense of this individual and justifying what he did was not "racial" is ridiculous.
Right Winger 2/6/2013 12:29:28 PM ReportTeachers protest against their "management". They affect those they are directly involved with. We don't like it but they keep it within the family so to speak.
The Idle No More targets people regardless of supporter or not. Like I said, go ahead and block Queen St in front of Hayes' office. Heck go ahead and blocade his house. At least the target of the protest will be the target of the protest.
Nats85 2/6/2013 12:35:07 PM ReportOK, but the teacher's striking takes away the people's right to education does it not?????????? They aren't ONLY affecting their management, they are affecting the students who miss that days or days of school, parents who have to miss work to stay home with their children or pay sitters to keep their children. Don't act like them striking ONLY affects their management. But like I said, anyone who wants to stand up for themselves gets a lot of respect from myself so long as it's in a peaceful manner.
Bad Dawg 2/6/2013 1:09:41 PM ReportHow is it any different than walking up Great Northern like the teachers, or a family closing traffic on a bridge to decicate it to a cop, or close traffic for a parade?? Yet you say thats alright cause there are alternate routes. There were 2-3 days notice for all blockades, you should have made getting to your destination it as important as you talk.
And its my right to drive down Queen street anytime I see fit(how stupid does that sound??)
Typical Righty who wants everything..... your a joke and will be the first to infringe on your right to your opinion because it is WRONG!!
*Wipe your mouth there is BS on your lips
Right Winger 2/6/2013 1:13:30 PM ReportFirst off, people go to school or work in Sault Ste Marie Michigan so they can't change their need to cross. People live east of Sault Ste Marie and work in or have medical appointments in Sault Ste Marie.
It is my right to drive down Queen St, but as I said their you have a choice to avoid.
As to the teachers.... they stayed on the sidewalk or accross the road. They blocked the intersection long enough for them to cross it.
Bad Dawg 2/6/2013 1:24:24 PM Reportyou had the same choice to avoid it..... you could have walked or rode a bike right through the blockade. Even left for your destination earlier!! Your choice was to use the road and its our right to hold a peaceful protest against the Gov't YOU ELECTED!! Now some bozo sends a hate inspired letter and you think it was okay! How do you type so well with so head buried so far up your......
Right Winger 2/6/2013 1:26:26 PM ReportDawg, You have lost all crediblity now. Read my posts before you accuse me of something.
Jamesbondres 2/6/2013 1:33:04 PM ReportIt amazes me how some people get so worked up over these protests.
How do the opposers to this movement want the First Nation peoples to protest? Would you prefer that they get violent and start rioting?
We should be so thankful to live in a country where we are only experiencing planned peaceful protests, which have been HEAVILY advertised so that people can make other arrangements as needed.
Slim Shady 2/6/2013 1:33:10 PM ReportI don’t agree with INM, their tactics regardless of their reasoning. However, violent threats against anyone are wrong. To say a statement such as “the only good Indian is a dead Indian” is a hate motivated crime. One this topic everyone here is loosing the perspective of this article – It is a crime and it is therefore a Police matter.
Unfortunately this is just the beginning…. With tactics like blockading road, rail and businesses you are bullying and intimidating people… Yes threatening too. Your issues are with the Federal Government not the people trying to get to work and be productive members of society. I’ve said it before…. Tempers will boil over on both sides until someone will senselessly loose their life. Then the Military will be sent in to impose order.
@BadDawg…
Your opinions that all of us “white people” should go back to where we came from…. You obviously don’t know where all FN originated from…. The same damn place we did… Mesopotamia. If you are too ignorant to understand this… re-read your history…. Oh that’s right, it doesn’t agree with your POV and therefore it all must be bunk!
Dreamer 2/6/2013 1:53:11 PM ReportSlim - look up Continential drift? We were always here!
Nats85 2/6/2013 2:03:32 PM ReportI'm not talking about teacher's blocking roads causing problems...you are saying Teachers don't disturb anyone else EXCEPT their management but that's balogny! Give your head a shake, they protest and for that day or so infringe on children's right to education...so don't say it's different. THANKS
Bad Dawg 2/6/2013 2:04:16 PM Reportslim.... First not all of "us" white people (as I am white), just "you" white people who think they deserve less respect. Why were the crimes that were commited against FN not taken into consideration? Those tactics you speak of were far worse when "we white man" stole their land.
Good thing they are expanding the harbour cause The Soo will be a major exporter of bigotry and racism!
*if you go back far enough we are all related..... I kick my brothers arse all the time he talks stupid.
Slim Shady 2/6/2013 2:07:31 PM Report@Dreamer
Several theories with proof exist however the oldest civilazations occurred in upper Africa and Mesopetamia. Cultures migrated. Native Americans migrated from Russia and upper Asia either by boats by hopping islands such as Hawaii or ice bridges near Alaska. Continnental Drift? Crap that was 225 million years ago and ancient humans were around 200,000 years old!!!! LOL FN people (and Us!) weren't even a "twinkle in our ole ma's eye"!
highway1 2/6/2013 2:23:24 PM ReportThe more Idle No More takes action, the more the general public becomes educated and the more support the movement generates.
Threats strengthen resolve and unify the movement with Canadians from all regions, affiliations and races.
highway1 2/6/2013 2:27:36 PM Report"I agree with shadow, if a mob of white people blocked commerce or invaded city hall they would all be arrested on the spot"
Unions do this all the time. Most of them are non Native.
Right Winger 2/6/2013 2:35:19 PM ReportNat my response about the teachers was to Dawg.
And yes teachers affect those who are directly involved in their fight. Management being the government and customers being the families they disrupt.
Right Winger 2/6/2013 2:35:20 PM ReportNat my response about the teachers was to Dawg.
And yes teachers affect those who are directly involved in their fight. Management being the government and customers being the families they disrupt.
mac2 2/6/2013 3:18:50 PM Report^lost soul
mac2 2/6/2013 3:24:59 PM Reporthttp://www.saultstar.com/2013/02/05/new-threats-against-idle-movement
hey look at this, more threats, but according to some creatures on this forum, "hey, what do they expect" lol, it is justified, right?
Bad Dawg 2/6/2013 3:26:57 PM ReportHere go again.... when the teachers strike and the retail merchants can't go to work because they have to stay home, it affect you by spending more time waiting.... just like a blockade?? It is your right to public protest in a peaceul manner, too young to remember the tractors going to Washington?? or the Scientists protesting research cuts?? or students protesting against tuition costs?? I guess those are fine because it didn't interupt your life!!
Wobbler 2/6/2013 3:49:48 PM ReportGuarantee of Rights and Freedoms
1. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees the rights and freedoms set out in it subject only to such reasonable limits prescribed by law as can be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.
Fundamental freedoms
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.
Only law can limit a Charter right. A police officer cannot limit a Charter right on his or her own initiative without any authority in law. When the police break up a street protest, they can do it either because the protest is not peaceful or because law prohibits the protest for a good reason acceptable in a free and democratic society. Police officers may not break up a protest in any other circumstances. If they do, these officers will be breaking the law.
Therefore:
If a mob of any colored people blocked commerce or invaded city hall then yes, they might be arrested because it may not be a peaceful assembly. Otherwise the protesters are following the law and the Charter of Rights.
When Idle No More has blocked roadways, there have been alternate routes or they have been blocked at intervals. There is also advance notice of the protests, so people can make alternative arrangements.
When there are protests like Idle No More, it is not only to make the government take notice of the issue, but the citizens as well.
poetrygal 2/6/2013 8:35:21 PM ReportMy name is Lesley Belleau and I am really appalled by many of the comments posted here such as this may be a ploy to gain political momentum? By myself? I have no political agenda. I am a self-sustaining student, writer, and mother with no need to moment myself to a highter agenda politically. This is NOT about my work done on Idle No More, nor what Idle No More represents, nor about legalities about blockades or protests, nor about treaties or governance or "inconvenviences" nor is it based on personal feelings like a lot of the responders have alloted it to be. It is malicious and low-minded to base a clear-cut hate crime beside a basis of personal opinion. FACT: This attack is racially motivated or the word INDIAN would not have been repetitively used. FACT: There was a sexual element brought in due to the fact that there were PENISES drawn over my article and pictures. FACT: The word DEAD or DEATH was mentioned 6 times in the letter. FACT: There are almost 1000 missing or murdered women in Canada. It doesn't matter what anyone does: A threat is uncalled for, especially a sexually and deathly intoned threat, to anyone of ANY RACE or GENDER or CULTURE. By saying that someone should get hate mail and death threats because they are participating in political protests is like saying that a woman should get raped and killed because of what she is wearing. People should remove their personal feelings of Idle No More, Indigenous peoples and protesting inside of insiduous and obvious cultural hate mail and criminality toward another person, rather than rationalizing the perpetrator's actions on the basis of one's own personal feelings on the agenda of Indigenous peoples thoughts and actions. I am not hiding behind an alias, but using my real name as I feel that that is more appropriate. I will never hide behind commentary aliases to express my opinion and feelings. Unfortunately, it is easy for some people to rationalize crime against a race they don't understand, but are accustomed to looking the other way, such as the Government of Canada is doing with the unsolved rapes, murders, and missing women of Indigenous heritage in Canada. Some of the comments are clear extentions of that same kind of thinking. Sault Ste. Marie is getting known for harbouring this type of thinking and it really must be approached and can possibly be resolved or at least chipped away at by education and information. THank you to those who have supported and expressed the opinions that this kind of criminal behaviour is not necessary and should be punished accordingly. As Chief Lyle Sayers, the Indian Friendship Center, and Eagle Feather Aviation have all received similiar letters, this perpetrator is someone who has a great deal of hatred and time to committ to harrassing and threatening cultural specific INDIVIDUALS and groups of people. He is targeting people based on one thing and that is RACE, therefore being a cultural hate crime in its purest and clearest form.
Adam L 2/6/2013 10:43:46 PM ReportDear soo today: Start cleaning this crap up and stop allowing these trolls to spit their racism daily. And to all said trolls grow up you jack wagons you embarass us all. This is slowly becoming a garbage website that is offensive to everyone who visits. We're supposed to be a nice loving bunch in this city not a bunch of hate mongers a young woman was the victim of a heinous crime and nobody cares if first nations people may have "inconveniced" you for maybe 10 minutes of your life Get over it! and to you lesley im sorry you have been wronged in such a way its shameful so keep up the good work with your head held high. Thank you. Sincerely a White Man!
moem 2/7/2013 12:39:39 AM ReportLesley
You are a courageous and strong woman!!! You certainly shut the little peanut gallery up, thanks for all of your efforts. We could use more people like you.
Right wing...
You are correct, people do need the bridge to get to work and school, sorry my memory must be failing me... What day was it blocked??? Lol you like many others are exaggerating of course, the highway east of here was only blocked for about 15 minutes on the hour. There was plenty of notice so folks could leave earlier to reach their destination.... People in the Soo should consider themselves lucky, try getting somewhere in a hurry in Toronto, delays are a big part of life in that big world outside sault ste marie LOL
And to the person who suggested you can't compare the interruption of INM to a parade because the parade closes only one street... Here's the thing, it closes a long stretch of a major downtown road, and the Santa parade for example celebrates something that many people don't care about or believe in. Protecting our environment is far more important than paying tribute to Santa, watching trucks drive by with plastic flowers or some two bit acrobat performing for nickels!!!
And the teachers???? They are absolutely impacting us all... Right or wrong their tactics affect us all. Not having extra curricular activities will in the long run cost us money... Sports for example create structure, discipline and give young people something healthy and constructive to do.... The saying " idle hands are the devil's playground" comes to mind
Bad Dawg 2/7/2013 1:22:52 AM ReportThank you for that Lesley. Your courage will inspire other young leaders to stand for their beliefs. *signed another white man supporting Idle No More!!
Right Winger 2/7/2013 7:36:21 AM ReportSo what some of you are saying is that aboriginal people are racists?
Listen folks just because somebody disagrees with another over their stance on an issue does not mean they are a racist.
Because a person threatens or attacks another of a different race does not make it racially motivated. It is wrong and should be punished.
I disagree with the way Idle No More is getting their point out. That's all. The founders of the Idle No More movement are against the blockades! Are they racist? Their movement was hijacked by Chief Spence and others.
I hope that the Canadian aboriginal people and the government will come together on an agreement that will be satisfying to both sides. But that does not mean I have to be happy with the blockades.
straightshooter 2/7/2013 7:38:47 AM ReportInteresting to read all these posts. more interesting to see the same people make the same statements, which are so painfully obviously based on ignorance, and utter lack of understanding.
Please do yourselved a favor, and read a little, take the time over the next few days to read.
As for the notion that only Indians can protest and not get arrested, please refer to todays Timmins daily press and see the front page article about 300 people protesting in Iroquois Falls, because of a doctor shortage. The fact of the matter there are any number of protests in many of our northern communities over any number of issues.
And to the one person who made mention of "the treaty problem"...the only problem is people like you who do not understand what a treaty is, have no knowledge of historic policy and the multitude of court decisions, including at the Supreme Court of Canada level and the Canadian constitution. The real problem again, is ignorance, and people who, despite there being a plethora of formats out there to educate themselves, still see a valid treaty as a problem. Hard to believe that there are still people out there who REFUSE to read, and REFUSE to learn.
I guess, given their statements, that it would be okay for someone to come in and take over their house and property, because the sale was made 50 years ago, and its different now, and that is an old sale. It would also be okay then to come in and disregard a valid legal agreement, one that was supported by the supreme court, and the constitution, because its an old or historic agreement.
Funny how people view something that is in reality a process, agreement, treaty, whatever term best describes your interpretation of it.
Wake up folks, the problem is ignorance, racism, and people who ought to spend more time educating themselves, before they write an opinion or making statements that speak clearly to their personal issues. Again, this matter screams out at our educational system to break away from what is being taught in areas of history and civics. Teach real history, teach about the things that have truly shaped our country, and are still current today. Education will reduce ignorance, which will reduce racism.
Lets hope that the police identify a suspect in the letter issue, and carry through with a complete investigation. Despite there being a difference of opinion on any number of matters, threating the well being of any person is just wrong.
poetrygal 2/7/2013 9:09:25 AM ReportWhen the cultural term "Indian"(as term for Indigenous) is used 17 times within 3 letters, makes it racially motivated. Simple. IF there were no cultural terminology used, then sure, perhaps it could be contested that it was in reaction to the INM actions. But the terminology speaks for itself. When Indian is sidelined with gun pictures and death terminology, violence is inserted within the racial language. When penises are drawn and sexual language is used, sexuality is inserted along with the racial and violent threat. Therefore, it becomes a racially motivated death threat with extreme sexual overtones. Laid out simply for those who care to rationalize and who wish to believe that this is a commonplace reaction to an aversion to Indigenous protesting. It was racially motivated or else it may have said something like "Idle No more Protestors should DIE." Instead it read "Good Indians are Dead Indians." "Stay Away from the SOO Lesley Belleau" (a specific INDIVIDUAL) You Stupid Indian (race specific), OR ELSE- threat, with a picture of a gun and a penis beside the Or Else. (sexual violence). By saying that these protests are not racially motivated is very weak rationalizing on the part of someone who feels strongly about Indigenous movements. Someone could "react" and voice their concerns against INM action by writing a letter to the editor, hiding here and ranting behind a fake name, doing a public speaking event at City Hall- but to write sexually and racially-violent threats with name-specific targetting- has to be seen for what it is. A racially induced hate crime based solely on attacking race (there was NO MENTION of Idle No More protesting- only Race). People of SSM, I understand that your hatred and feelings of anger runs deep against your brothers and sisters of the surrounding FN's, but still, it is impossible to rationalize around a simple and clear racial hate crime. Unfortunately, the only way these commenters are doing so is to repeat the same thing- sounding off about what they don't like about this- or projecting the crime on Indigenous peoples (they are doing this...etc.) and this does not make sense. I believe I need to write some federal articles on the level of thinking and racial rationalization in the SSM and perhaps use some of this commentary for examples. The same obsessed people coming to explain away the actions of an obvious madman- in very weak and ineffective and personal ways.
Right Winger 2/7/2013 9:58:52 AM ReportThe individual that wrote the letters to you should be punished to the fullest extent of the law (which in Canada is pretty lame). Now it is just my opinion that this is not a hate crime. But that being said I am not a supporter of hate crime legislation. Murder, assault or threatening should be the same for every crime. However "miniorities" are given a different status in terms of being a victim that is then to be interpreted by the courts and juries.
As to justifying the writers actions, I don't think anyone is doing that. Are they saying people are frustrated? Yes. However some people have no coping skills and out of frustraion will do extreme things. And those people need to be dealt with by the police.
Some reagular guy like me coming onto a comment board expressing my frustatation or opinion is nothing. You have your opinions I have mine. Sure we disagree. I disagree on many things with friends and relatives, just like all people do. Doesn't make me a racist, sexist or anygthing like that.
I applaud your conviction to your cause, but don't like the way you go about it.
Heck the Jehova's witnesses who get the door slammed in there face but keep going out are strong people. I think they are dead wrong but kudos for them for their strong belief and conviction to it.
poetrygal 2/7/2013 10:22:56 AM ReportYou are very wrong in the fact that minorities are not given more room to report or to be taken seriously. Why are there not almost 1000 (reported only-there are actually almost 3000) missing and murdered Indigenous women in Canada that remain unsolved? BECAUSE THEIR COMPLAINTS ARE NOT TAKEN AS SERIOUSLY AS NON-INDIGENOUS WOMEN- Who's cases get closed and solved quickly and effectively in most cases. The reason this is being taken seriously is because I pursue things ferociously and demand accountability. I have called multiple police stations and have gone to a public extreme due to my knowledge of the LACK OF POLICE SUPPORT THAT INDIGENOUS PEOPLE GET. That is true and directly opposes your belief that minorities get more police support and protection and action. It is historically and presently the opposite of your claim. THere were TWO locally reported incidents of hate mail and criminality before mine was reported. They were not publicized nor were they being actively pursued. Because I publicly demanded it, got aid from multiple FN agencies (not municipal or federal) and I took the story public- did this get reported AT ALL. Crimes against Indigenous people are less likely to be reported or acted upon in Canada. The fact that you agree or disagree with me or me to you is irrelevant in this matter.
poetrygal 2/7/2013 10:32:55 AM ReportAnd I don't see myself or other Indigenous people as victims. In fact, just the opposite. We are a fierce, resilient peoples who have survived legal kidnapping of our children, forced sterilization, rape, murder and torture of our women, biological warfare (smallpox blankets wrapped up as gifts in order to annihilate us), the residential school system as a distinguishing agent (where 50% of our children were murdered), constant societal oppression and slander and false education, and I can go on. VICTIMS? I don't think so. We are the most resilent people in Canada, still standing strong. THe talk of victimization here is a non-issue. The issue is the predatory hatred of a sick individual having a great deal of time and seething personal feelings that exists and is seen through his/her hate mail and attacks. You are painting victimization on this wall. I certainly don't feel like a victim due to a sick individual's ill malice and hatred. He is the one who is sick. The strongest people I know are Indigenous people and the fact that many of us (women to a higher degree) are preyed upon, stalked and hated upon is not our problem of victimization, it is the attacker and predator's problem of hatred.
Bad Dawg 2/7/2013 11:09:49 AM ReportRight Winger.... If you applaud the conviction then why is it such a big deal to wait 15 min on a road?? We will sit for hours during construction??
This is what REALLY TICKED ME OFF!!! please refer to this link and tell me that is okay....
http://www.google.ca/imgres?imgurl=http://www.firstnations.eu/img/06-3-2-no-indians.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.firstnations.eu/development/secwepemc-skwelkwekwelt.htm&h=297&w=381&sz=32&tbnid=9DCv4ypc3BWsmM:&tbnh=93&tbnw=119&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dno%2Bindians%2Ballowed%26tbm%3Disch%26tbo%3Du&zoom=1&q=no+indians+allowed&usg=__oHgBZCtgB2RAEQHym9rkIVu-R5g=&docid=bktcLa8iE6iP7M&hl=en&sa=X&ei=S9ETUff4Lajc2QXN8YCoDg&sqi=2&ved=0CC4Q9QEwAA&dur=3893
Right Winger 2/7/2013 11:15:42 AM ReportThis picture has no explanation as to why the individual is holding it. I doubt that the BC Governement is behind that order nor that it is an actual order. It is likely a sarcastic sign in response to the development of disputed aboriginal land. If it is actually by orde of the BC Government it is wrong.
Bad Dawg 2/7/2013 12:32:28 PM ReportIdle No More and I agree on Bill C45. I f you think your Gov't is going to stop at FN lands and waters?? What is stopping Harper from doing this to other people again?? Because the gov't wants to put a pipline through. Could go on with the next leader, says he wants to close The Soo because our strong Italian heritage may have ties to the mob...... You need to look at it from their piont of view, why should they be forced to do what the Gov't thinks is best for Gov't pockets. The FN won't get rich off the lease of the land. Who deserves a 4 ft diameter pipe of crude oil?? But as i stated before that doesn't affect you so why stand up..... BAA RAM EWE, you are sheep, INM is the Dawg hunting the wolf who will eventually hunt you.
Right Winger 2/7/2013 12:42:32 PM ReportOr take away cottages on Squirrel Island to return them to First Nations?
