Finally, the revolution comes to Canada. I wondered what the spark would be that would ignite the anger most Canadians feel toward our pro-corporate, anti-environment government.
And now, I am happy to say, Natives and non-Natives alike are hitting the streets in joyous, indignant gatherings under the Idle No More banner.
If you care about human rights, the rule of law, the environment, and basic decency, you are invited to stand alongside our sisters and brothers in the Idle No More movement.
This growing force was formed by four women in Saskatchewan, but in only one month has spread nationally, and internationally.
We here at the NBA blog support:
- indigenous rights and self-determination,
- environmental rights and protection, and
- ending the genocide of indigenous peoples globally.
It is time to build a better Canada, and a better world. In this worthy endeavour, there are no spectators, only participants.
What part are you playing?
"Canada, the most affluent of countries, operates on a depletion economy which leaves destruction in its wake. Your people are driven by a terrible sense of deficiency. When the last tree is cut, the last fish is caught, and the last river is polluted; when to breathe the air is sickening, you will realize, too late, that wealth is not in bank accounts and that you can’t eat money." - Alanis Obomsawin, filmmaker and Abenaki from the Odanak reserve, northeast of Montreal (1972)
Thank you for this post. It is a simple and clear summary. Most Canadians get distressed by protests and road blocks. It is important to clarify the issues behind the anger.
ReplyDeleteA friend shared that he thought this post was not as gentle as what he usually reads here. I am trying to channel my anger into action.
DeleteYou are right about Canadians being adverse to conflict, even if it is constructive. However, the Harper government is forcing normally polite and mild mannered citizens to rise up.
I could slam the federal government for a whole host of things, but they sure are doing a great job of creating a bunch of new social/environmental justice activists. This will change the conversation for years to come.