APTN National News
Hundreds attended an Idle No More rally in Calgary by first delivering petitions and letters to Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s constituency office.
The protestors, made up of people of all ages, weren’t allowed in the office and soon took their demonstration downtown.
They said their opposition to Bill C-45, the government’s omnibus legislation, won’t end with a protest and they are prepared to go further. Calgary was one of many held across the country Monday.
Demonstrators said the legislation will make amendments to the Indian Act that changes how land is managed on First Nations and allows the federal government to control it.
Autumn Eaglespeaker was one of the organizers and said she was moved by the amount of people who came out.
“I am so moved and pleased,” said Eaglespeaker. “People are coming out. People are galvanized.”
She said First Nations came from all over to be part of the rally.
“We’re not just the urban First Nations. We are all of Treaty 7 and we’re all standing together strong,” said Eaglespeaker.
When asked about what further action is going to be taken Eaglespeaker said it only takes one person to be the spark that lights the fire.
“Our intent was to do it in a peaceful manner. When we signed the treaties we did it in a peaceful way,” she said. “We’re hoping people won’t take to negative actions. We’re hoping to educate our communities.”
She said they are looking to the leaders and telling them “enough is enough” and now it’s the grassroots’ time to take a stand.
The Idle No More movement was sparked by four women several weeks ago and jumped into the spotlight following the Special Chiefs Assembly in Gatineau, Que. that saw several chiefs try to enter the House of Commons.
