The Real National Day of Action & Resistance: Anti-Canada Day July 1 !
Fri, 2007-06-15 02:33
#1
saga
The Real National Day of Action & Resistance: Anti-Canada Day July 1 !
Fri, 2007-06-15 02:33
#2
saga
Not surprisingly, the traditional councils and people and especially youth and young parents may not want to partake in the AFN's fundraising event:
The Real National Day of Action & Resistance
ANTI-CANADA DAY
July 1st 2007!
While the collaborator chiefs of the Assembly of First Nations plan to
march, acquire corporate donations and access government funds on June 29th (http://www.afn.ca/nda/wcid.htm), other groups are calling on
Indigenous people and their allies to take grassroots ACTION on Canada day
- the day that symbolizes epic state atrocities and oppression against
Indigenous people, including: genocide, land theft and
occupation, brutality, violence and abuse, and mass child apprehension
and deaths.
• Today, Canada continues its program of assault on Indigenous
people. The state imprisonment and death of Elder and Warrior Harriet Nahanee is one of many examples of the state's vile mistreatment of Indigenous people, in particular those who expose and dissent Canada's illegal theft and occupation of Indigenous lands. Harriet was a 72-year old Pacheedaht grandmother, married into the Skwxwu7mesh Nation, who was arrested and imprisoned for protecting the Eagle Ridge Bluff site that is slated to be destroyed in the expansion of the Sea-to-Sky Highway for the 2010 Olympics. Despite her frail health, Harriet was sentenced to fourteen days at the Surrey Pretrial center; a men's prison and notorious hell hole.
While in jail, where she was inflicted with abuse, and not given proper medical care in a cell with tens of other inmates subject to racist treatment, Harriet Nahanee contracted pneumonia. After one week of release from custody, she was hospitalized and passed away within a week. Harriet represents hundreds of other Indigenous people who are criminalized and abused by the Canadian state when they choose to stand up against and not assimilate into Canadian capitalist society.
• Harriet was well known for her use of the Royal Proclamation to
explain how unceded Indigenous lands are illegally occupied and
governed by the Canadian government. The Canadian and provincial
governments continue to attempt to extinguish Aboriginal title and
rights (through litigation and the BC treaty process), dispossess
Indigenous people from their lands, and destroy traditional
territories through mega-development projects.
• There are over 500 murdered and missing Aboriginal women in Canada, yet Canada does not acknowledge this as a 'Justice file,' or as the
responsibility of the justice system. Instead, the unjust deaths are
treated as 'cultural,' and put under a 'Canadian Heritage file.' Where
do the AFN collaborator chiefs stand on this issue? Where were they at the Pickton trial? Why do they not mention Aboriginal women on their Day of Action?
• Today, there has been more Indigenous children in foster and state
(MCFD) care today then there ever was in residential school (tens of
thousands of Indigenous people who were forced in residential school
are now filing legal cases against the church and state of Canada). This
should be alarming as the number of Indigenous people in abusive and
assimilating residential schools (which instituted cultural
genocide and slave labor) was immense. Children continue to die and be sexually and physically abused in MCFD care today, as well as
suffering further isolation from their cultural roots.
• Everyday in Canada, hundreds of incidents of police brutality
against Indigenous people, namely youth, take place. Police and RCMP in Prince George and other areas have sexually assaulted Indigenous girls, police and RCMP have run Indigenous youth over with their cars in
northern communities and other areas, and police and RCMP have
murdered many Indigenous people all over Canada (starlight tours,
deaths in custody, shooting to death, tazering to death, beating to
death, etc.).
• Canada remains one of the only countries that does NOT have an
independent body to investigate police and RCMP brutality, murders and hate crimes. Instead they investigate themselves, and as a result many police and RCMP literally get away with murder. When Pivot Legal
Society announced the completion of its report, including affidavits
documenting police brutality and violence, the police chief (Jamie
Graham) just simply "retired."
• Vancouver BC's hosting of the 2010 Olympics has already aggravated
Canada's abject poverty and homelessness that Indigenous people are
overrepresented with. The estimated number of homeless persons in
Canada ranges from 100,000 to 250,000, 25-30% which are Indigenous
people.
Due to skyrocketing housing prices and a lack of affordable housing and social housing (more focus is made on accommodating hungry visitors (tourists)), the number of homeless people will surely rise during the lead up to the 2010 games.
Canada's Dirty History is Repeating Itself...
REFUSE TO ACCEPT YOUR OPPRESSION!
ANTI-CANADA DAY
JULY 1st, 2007
THE REAL NATIONAL DAY OF ACTION & RESISTANCE
Refuse to Accept:
*The unjust state death of Elder and Warrior Harriet Nahanee
*Over 500 murdered and missing Indigenous women
*Theft and occupation of Indigenous lands
*Child apprehension of Indigenous children
*Police, state and military violence and brutality
*Abject poverty with thousands Homeless
*Criminalization of dissent
Meet at Grandview Park (at Commercial Drive) at 1pm, March to follow
For
more information contact: [email protected]
Take Action in your own communities!
Let the AFN collaborator chiefs know they don't represent you!
Let Canada know you reject their program of assault!
Native People rise up and take back the land!
[ 15 June 2007: Message edited by: saga ]
Fri, 2007-06-15 08:51
#3
What will this event accomplish?
AFN Chiefs? I think you mean Indian Act Chiefs.
Fri, 2007-06-15 16:02
#4
quote:
What will this event accomplish?
AFN Chiefs? I think you mean Indian Act Chiefs.
Again, the feds have won. They have successfully divided and conquered the First Nations people.
Fri, 2007-06-15 18:24
#5
saga
quote:
Originally posted by NorthernWoman:
[b]Again, the feds have won. They have successfully divided and conquered the First Nations people.[/b]
Here's another piece of info...
COMMUNIQUЙ – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASБSE CALLS ON AFN TO GO BEYOND “NATIONAL DAY OF ACTION” AND SUPPORT
SUSTAINED CAMPAIGN OF POLITICAL CONFRONTATION
( WSANEC Territory , Victoria , BC) – June 14, 2007
The chiefs of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) have encouraged people to organize and participate in a “National Day of Action” to draw attention to and educate Canadians on First Nations issues. In solidarity
with those who will be taking action on June 29th, the Wasбse Movement challenges the AFN to go further than this one-day national day of rhetoric and symbolic protest. We challenge the chiefs of the AFN to truly respect their people and to engage in a real strategy of action to
improve the quality of life for Indigenous people in this country.
The AFN’s motives for calling this single and limited National Day of Action are questionable. The Assembly’s May 23rd call to action references the removal of the current funding cap on band councils as a focal point for concern, and it is clear that the primary motive behind the National Day of Action is to pressure the federal government to increase funding for the band council system. The Conservative government recent responseto the AFN’s call for increased funding, in its “Specific Claims Action Plan”, and National Chief Phil Fontaine’s immediate support for the this deft and distracting move, is an indication that there is no serious intent behind the AFN’s position.
More funding for band councils and tribunal for specific claims will not make a difference in the way our people are affected by land-loss, racism, and poverty. We believe creating a better life for our people means
fighting for the respect of our inherent rights and the return of our lands through a sustained campaign of political confrontation and direct non-violent action. Wasбse calls on the Assembly of First Nations to go
further in responding to the hearts and minds of all the people who engage in the National Day of Action by:
1. Redirecting the agenda and efforts of the AFN inward to strengthen our communities; and,
2. Supporting a strategy of sustained political action and confrontation going beyond June 29th.
“Some of us believe in reconciliation, forgetting that the monster has a genocidal appetite, a taste for our blood, and would sooner tear us apart than lick our hands… We need to stand against history and against those
who would submit to it, and with the warriors who want to beat the beast into bloody submission and teach it to behave.” – Wasбse.
30
Fri, 2007-06-15 19:22
#6
quote:
Originally posted by NorthernWoman:
[b]Again, the feds have won. They have successfully divided and conquered the First Nations people.[/b]
EErrr... why have the feds won? Such an all or nothing attitude is straight-line thinking and will always lead to defeatism. I prefer to think in circles and realize that everything has its spring, summer, fall and winter. But there are three things that I am certain of: one, that there are over 50 different First Nations in Canada in over 630 communities that all have different histories, cultures and relationships with Canada (they have always been divided); two, is that my people - and Canadians - will always be a part of these lands; third, that I love our young people and do not want to send them into battle against poor odds.
Knowing the second, I know that a relationship is necessary, and if I am going to maintain a relationship with people, I will do it according to the values my Grandmother taught me: kindness, honesty, love, humility, respect, and honour. I know that it doesn't matter what they do in MY life, it only matters what I do in MY life. I will allways fight for my people, but I do it by speaking with Canadians and doing my part to educate them; but I also do it by being a good 'hunter' for my family and making sure they get the best - even if the government doesn't give it to me. I know the need for land claim resolution, land claim reform, better infrastructure, better governance, proper recognition of the Treaties, and better access to Canada's economy. But at this point in time, I do not think more blockades will be useful. I will take part in an day of celebrating this land, the Treaties and educating Canadians and marching down the street is a great way to bring attention to such a message.
Knowing the third, I know that standing our ground against the Canadian Army will just mean a lot of dead Indians. We are out numbered 30 to 1. A great General from our cousins in China once said: "If you know the enemy and yourself, you need not fee the result of a 100 battles." If we are serious of putting up a resistance, than indivudal blockades in communities spread out across the country isn't going to do it. We need to really unite, and that means enough Indians to form an army leaving their traditonal territory and deciding to meet up somewhere. We also have be serious about spend the blood of our youth to fight for... what, exactly? I've been to other places in the world, like China, and many, many First Nation people live better lives than what I saw the average person living there. As I said I recognize there are issues. We were a nomadic people, so embrace that spirit once again, leave you community, be a good Hunter, and then take your earnings back to your community and make it better place to live. I realize there is anti-Indian propaganda, but who the hell says you have to listen to it? Why be angry when everything is still following the Creator's rules. Why kick your neighbour in the balls just before you sit dow to negotiate with them? We can see here on Babble that there are many Canadians willing to join our cause.
Having said all that, political pressure is an interesting thing and applied in the right fashion, it can do wonders (and for communities, blockades are one tool in that tool box). But long, drawn out and disruptive blockades will not bring more Canadians to our cause.
If you really want to get free of the Canadian system you need to do a few things: first, get off the grid. If you are using electricity, and are addicted to it, they have you by the balls. Second, if Indians want to take back Canada we need to do the thing we are best at: being lovers. We need to stop listening to the lies of the city that push back the time when our young peopole have children. It will be tough and a struggle, but I have seen people come out of having children young, and they are ready and more mature to build a life - after they have seen and experienced the meaning of life. We need to keep having Indian babies. The city people are not replacing themselves because the city prefers an individual, adult worker to a family-member, worker-to-be-in-18-years.
We need to embrace the idea of Spring in our hearts and minds.
I ask again, what do you think your strategy will accomplish?
[ 15 June 2007: Message edited by: UrsaMinor ]
Fri, 2007-06-15 20:04
#7
quote:
Originally posted by UrsaMinor:
[b]EErrr... why have the feds won? Such an all or nothing attitude is straight-line thinking and will always lead to defeatism. I prefer to think in circles and realize that everything has its spring, summer, fall and winter. But there are three things that I am certain of: one, that there are over 50 different First Nations in Canada in over 630 communities that all have different histories, cultures and relationships with Canada (they have always been divided); two, is that my people - and Canadians - will always be a part of these lands; third, that I love our young people and do not want to send them into battle against poor odds.
Knowing the second, I know that a relationship is necessary, and if I am going to maintain a relationship with people, I will do it according to the values my Grandmother taught me: kindness, honesty, love, humility, respect, courage and honour. I know that it doesn't matter what they do in MY life, it only matters what I do in MY life. I will allways fight for my people, but I do it by speaking with Canadians and doing my part to educate them; but I also do it by being a good 'hunter' for my family and making sure they get the best - even if the government doesn't give it to me. I know the need for land claim resolution, land claim reform, better infrastructure, better governance, proper recognition of the Treaties, and better access to Canada's economy. But at this point in time, I do not think more blockades will be useful. I will take part in an day of celebrating this land, the Treaties and educating Canadians and marching down the street is a great way to bring attention to such a message.
Knowing the third, I know that standing our ground against the Canadian Army will just mean a lot of dead Indians. We are out numbered 30 to 1. A great General from our cousins in China once said: "If you know the enemy and yourself, you need not fee the result of a 100 battles." If we are serious of putting up a resistance, than indivudal blockades in communities spread out across the country isn't going to do it. We need to really unite, and that means enough Indians to form an army leaving their traditonal territory and deciding to meet up somewhere. We also have be serious about spending the blood of our youth to fight for... what, exactly? I've been to other places in the world, like China, and many, many First Nation people live better lives than what I saw the average person living there. As I said I recognize there are issues. We were a nomadic people, so embrace that spirit once again, leave you community, be a good Hunter, and then take your earnings back to your community and make it better place to live. I realize there is anti-Indian propaganda, but who the hell says you have to listen to it? Why be angry when everything is still following the Creator's rules. Why kick your neighbour in the balls just before you sit down to negotiate with them? We can see here on Babble that there are many Canadians willing to join our cause.
Having said all that, political pressure is an interesting thing and applied in the right fashion, it can do wonders (and for communities, blockades are one tool in that tool box). But long, drawn out and disruptive blockades will not bring more Canadians to our cause.
If you really want to get free of the Canadian system you need to do a few things: first, get off the grid. If you are using electricity, and are addicted to it, they have you by the balls. Second, if Indians want to take back Canada we need to do the thing we are best at: being lovers. We need to stop listening to the lies of the city that push back the time when our young peopole have children. It will be tough and a struggle, but I have seen people come out of having children young, and they are ready and more mature to build a life - after they have seen and experienced the meaning of life. We need to keep having Indian babies. The city people are not replacing themselves because the city prefers an individual, adult worker to a family-member, worker-to-be-in-18-years.
We need to embrace the idea of Spring in our hearts and minds.
I ask again, what do you think your strategy will accomplish?
[ 15 June 2007: Message edited by: UrsaMinor ][/b]
Sat, 2007-06-16 23:44
#8
saga
quote:
Originally posted by UrsaMinor:But there are three things that I am certain of: one, that there are over 50 different First Nations in Canada in over 630 communities that all have different histories, cultures and relationships with Canada (they have always been divided); two, is that my people - and Canadians - will always be a part of these lands; third, that I love our young people and do not want to send them into battle against poor odds.
No one is talking about going into battle. They are talking about economic sanctions against Canada. Some communities may have reason to do so.
quote:
But at this point in time, I do not think more blockades will be useful.Knowing the third, I know that standing our ground against the Canadian Army will just mean a lot of dead Indians.
Canada has no right to do that. Canadians are paying attention. So is the UN.
quote:
Having said all that, political pressure is an interesting thing and applied in the right fashion, it can do wonders (and for communities, blockades are one tool in that tool box). But long, drawn out and disruptive blockades will not bring more Canadians to our cause.
...
I ask again, what do you think your strategy will accomplish?
Well it isn't my strategy. I am a supporter, not Indigenous though. I am not sure if it is anyone's strategy, but there may be some communities with particular issues who may feel economic sanctions are warranted: For example, where Indigenous territory is being traversed for great profit with no payment for use of the land, etc.
Support is growing among Canadians. We are sick of these violent incidents, and we place the blame for them on the federal governments for stalling instead of resolving, and we want the treaties and the Constitution honoured.
Hell, 35% of Canadians support the blockades!
[url=http://www.angus-reid.com/polls/index.cfm/fuseaction/viewItem/itemID/159...
[ 16 June 2007: Message edited by: saga ]
Mon, 2007-06-18 09:56
#9
I saw this thread heading into the weekend but only now have the time to respond.
Recently, Bartleman and Jean visited an FN community and I believe a Chief was saying his people wanted to be part of the Commonwealth.
Disgusting. The Commonwealth consists of Australia, Britain, U.S. and Canada; that I know of anyways. However, an interesting snippet of info is that there are members of the, ugh, 'Royal' family having blood ties to the Nazi SS, and also leading up to WWII, the U.S. and Britain funneled money to Hitler.
Seems to me the AFN is experiencing Amsterdam Syndrome and as a result consists of Chiefs more than happy to adopt the patriarchal set-up of a monarchist and slightly cloaked hegemonic regime that is well founded in discrimination, even against their own people in the name of power centralization.
I agree that following a Grandmother's teachings is very important, but I also think there has to be those willing to take stronger action when Grandmother's like Nahanee are being eradicated because she's found immense power in her voice.
Blockades aren't the be-all-end-all to resisting the Commonwealth's campaign of cultural and spiritual hegemony; however, I also feel that they can serve as an intrinsic variable in bringing Indiginous rights to the forefront of the global stage, when they're currently on the back-burner like Australia and Palestine to name a couple.
Imagine if FN communities in the U.S. joined in the struggle for land rights. They will be disappeared to Gitco in a blink. The 'royal' cronies running Canada may very well folow suit. Does that fear of being outnumbered amount to turtling up in a corner and begging for a cessation of atrocities? This is the struggle. Cow-tow in the hopes that racist elitists will suddenly have a spiritual awakening, and FULLY recognize non-white non-catholics as equals, or wake the hell up and realize the war on sovereignty has been going on for hundreds if not thousands of years, and it's going to take one incredible uprising of a revolution for ALL to break free of the spiritual and monetary shackles that have been sociopathically engrained into the minds of angels to accept without question, imho.
Mon, 2007-06-18 10:07
#10
quote:
Recently, Bartleman and Jean visited an FN community and I believe a Chief was saying his people wanted to be part of the Commonwealth.
Which Chief? He may have been saying that, due the Treaties, First Nations and the Crown have a nation-to-nation relationship and this started with the Royal Proclamation of 1763. First Nation communities had some of the highest rates of volunteerism during WWII this is because we view the Treaties as sacred documents. It is just as important for us to keep our promises as it is important for the Crown to keep its promises. Those who view the Treaties as sacred documents see us as subjects of the Queen.
Mon, 2007-06-18 10:19
#11
That's not an accurate representation of the Commonwealth. The [url=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Commonwealth_of_Nations]Commonwealth[/url]is a group of nations who were colonies of Britain. The US is not a member since it ceased being (formally) a colony long before the Commonwealth was set up.
The point about the Commonwealth is that it is a voluntary association of independent states. For an FN leader to say that they want to join it means that they want to be an independent state.
The Commonwealth has been a place where a lot of issues surrounding racism and colonialism have been thrashed out at the state level. Despite its origins I think it is a useful organization to have.
Mon, 2007-06-18 10:20
#12
quote:
Seems to me the AFN is experiencing Amsterdam Syndrome and as a result consists of Chiefs more than happy to adopt the patriarchal set-up of a monarchist and slightly cloaked hegemonic regime that is well founded in discrimination, even against their own people in the name of power centralization.
Seems to me that you know little baout First Nation politics and the governance system that is in place. Terry Nelson, the Chief who has been threatening blockades, is an Indian Act Chief, he is also a member of the AFN. Ever been to an AFN General Assembly? I encourage you to go there and announce that all the Chiefs there are in Canada's backpocket.
quote:
Imagine if FN communities in the U.S. joined in the struggle for land rights.
The Indians in the US have a lot more power over their land than Indians in Canada. They also have a lot more of it, almost all the reserves in Canada when added together could fit in to the Great Navajo reservation in the States.
quote:
Does that fear of being outnumbered amount to turtling up in a corner and begging for a cessation of atrocities?
No it doesn't. But it is equally stupid for us to be lemmings and smash our youth (ie. future) against an opponant that can defeat us militarily. It is equal stupid to keep tell our kids that they are victims, rather than telling them they have all the tools to stand on their own two feet. As I said in post, I will always fight for my people, but going to war against our largest trading partner seems counter-productive. Being anti-Canadian is foolish. There are obviously problems, but Indians don't believe in Evil like Christian-influenced Western Europeans do. Elder Courchane of the Nation Council of Elders recently told me that he is disappointed that modern Chiefs sometimes forget the our ancestors wanted to share this land with Canadians. I will always fight for my people rights, but I will not abandon my people's beliefs and teachings to do so... that would defeat the point.
Mon, 2007-06-18 11:16
#13
Hello UM. I tried quoting but only the last paragraph of your post came up.
Anyhow, I do know little about FN politics but I'm willing to learn and respect because I believe FN people's were once great stewards of the land. But I also have a growing sense that the Sacred beliefs you mention have been corrupted. Terry may be AFN, and as much as I agree with him to protest because his community's being 'railroaded', I also had the sense he's developed racist tendencies and I DO question his motivation. Is it merely a desire to get deeper into the back-pockets of the conquerors, or does he have a sincere desire to lift up ALL his brothers and sisters, regardless of their Tribe?
As for Aboriginals in the U.S., the key word you used is [i]more[/i] power over their land, not ABSOLUTE.
I agree that military conflict means killing fields, but that's not what I'm trying to get at. The Earth and people from all walks of life from all the sacred tribes stand to benefit from Aboriginals asserting their rights and voicing reprehension for marauding forces that have no respect for anything other than unquestioning slaves, and probably not even that. If the U.N. is incapable of enforcing sanctions, then that burden falls upon individuals within the country that's veritably free of sanctions despite their grotesque human rights violations; to me that means FN's taking back control of resources, and willing to sacrifice trade with whomever because trade merely feeds the greed of the capitalistic beast that fuels racist elitists.
Resistance is not EVIL, neither is inaction after reflection; things are merely what they are in whatever form. I'm not talking about revenge, I'm talking about the restablishment of FN's as a sovereign nation that is recognized on the world stage, but I feel that many more atrocities are going to occur while there are those willing to talk it out, when there's no intention of giving an inch in terms of validating FN concerns in any significant way.
The Kelowna Accord's a joke. Yes FN people were willing to share the land and what Mother Earth has to offer, but that was under the false pretense of peace. The conquerors weren't peaceful then, and they sure aren't peaceful now, even though they've become well practised in conveying that image. B.C. should just be taken back by being sanctioned via myriad forms of blockades, imho.
The trouble I'm having that I recently shared in a sweat, is that I don't understand how there can solely be followers of the Red Road, if there aren't myriad warriors to protect the rights of those who wish to take that path. Is it not honourable to fight back for beliefs and even lose soldiers? The beliefs have survived occultic opression for over half a millenium, and I don't think that's because of a sole belief of loving one's enemy to death.
Please bare with me, I respect your words, but am a very fiery individual who's experienced the effects of being an expendable commodity. I really hope you don't take my comments personally; I see and feel a great deal of value in being able to discuss Aboriginal issues and learning from you and your opinions. [img]smile.gif" border="0[/img]
Mon, 2007-06-18 12:59
#14
quote:
Is it merely a desire to get deeper into the back-pockets of the conquerors, or does he have a sincere desire to lift up ALL his brothers and sisters, regardless of their Tribe?
I can certainly appreciate the willingness to learn. First Nations are not all one people, never were, never will be. The protestors in Caledonia will stop protesting when they get what they want, they will not continue until every land claim in Canada is settled. At the last election for a Grand Chief here in Manitoba, I heard one of the Chiefs say, "I ain't voting for no f**cking Cree." People are people and Indians are no different. Treating us like we are all one people is part of the reason we are in the mess we are in.
Sacred beliefs have been corrupted - by Christianity, by greed and by unhealthy attitudes - like being a victim. But this is a fight within ourselves, we cannot blame others for corrupting OUR sacred beliefs. We can blame others for for making them illegal under Canadian law, but that is oppression, not corruption. And those laws are gone. We will not take hold of our strengths, by wallowing in our weakness.
quote:
As for Aboriginals in the U.S., the key word you used is more power over their land, not ABSOLUTE
If you mean to be a good neighbour, can you ever really say you have absolute power over the land? First Nations in the US have a lot more law making authority on their lands than First Nations in Canada. Can you show me a nation that has ever given another nation absolute control over, what it regards as, it's land?
Do you feel that municipalities have absolute power over their lands? Are municipalities self-governing?
quote:
If the U.N. is incapable of enforcing sanctions, then that burden falls upon individuals within the country that's veritably free of sanctions despite their grotesque human rights violations; to me that means FN's taking back control of resources, and willing to sacrifice trade with whomever because trade merely feeds the greed of the capitalistic beast that fuels racist elitists.
Land claims aren't about going back to a culture that existed 200 years ago. I am living my people's modern culture, which includes economic development. If we had greater control of our resources - but damaged our relationship with the people who would buy those resources, sell us the equipement and fuel to extract those resources and also control all the roads leading out of the rez - what good will it do us? Land claims need to be addressed, in order to give us self-sufficeint communities, but taking a confrontational approach will only slow down the negotiations. Anger is not the best tool to make friends with. Time and time again young men on both sides of the 'line' have taken action that the Elders on both sides of the line then have to repair.
The free market system has its issues, but it is a lot more like our traditional trading systems than communism or socialism is.
quote:
The Kelowna Accord's a joke. Yes FN people were willing to share the land and what Mother Earth has to offer, but that was under the false pretense of peace. The conquerors weren't peaceful then, and they sure aren't peaceful now, even though they've become well practised in conveying that image. B.C. should just be taken back by being sanctioned via myriad forms of blockades, imho.
Do you mean the Kelowna Accord or the Treaties. You start off with the Accord, but everything that follows refers to the Treaties.
If BC is taken back, how will that help my people who live in Manitoba?
quote:
Resistance is not EVIL, neither is inaction after reflection; things are merely what they are in whatever form. I'm not talking about revenge, I'm talking about the restablishment of FN's as a sovereign nation that is recognized on the world stage, but I feel that many more atrocities are going to occur while there are those willing to talk it out, when there's no intention of giving an inch in terms of validating FN concerns in any significant way.
I wasn't refering to resistance being evil or revenge being evil. I was talking about Western European thinking, and how the ideas of evil and good are so infused in the English language that you can't really talk about anything in English without applying those labels and the host of ideas that follow them. Cree is much more 'fuzzy'. I don't see Canadians or what the Canadians have done is Evil. I don't believe in evil. I will say it is unhealthy, but you do not resolve an 'unhealthy' problem the same way you resolve and 'evil' one.
If First Nations had municipal style governance, and a working democracy at all levels, wouldn't our communities eventually reflect our cultures as they worked through the democratic process?
quote:
The trouble I'm having that I recently shared in a sweat, is that I don't understand how there can solely be followers of the Red Road, if there aren't myriad warriors to protect the rights of those who wish to take that path.
Obviously, there are warriors protecting the Red Road, or it would not have survived the decades of oppression, nor would you have been able to take part in a sweat. There is a lot of attention paid to the archtype of the Warrior - but unfortunately, our youth are focusing on the temporary solidier, and have forgotten about the most important and full-time warrior: the scout. The scout's job was to look out after the people, find resources and positives, and warn about trouble and danger. We need more scouts, less idiots with bandanas over their faces.
Mon, 2007-06-18 13:27
#15
quote:
Land claims aren't about going back to a culture that existed 200 years ago. I am living my people's modern culture, which includes economic development.
YES!!!! We are allowed to evolve! It is our right as human beings to evolve. Who knows how we might have evolved if the Europeans didn't land in North America.
Mon, 2007-06-18 15:23
#16
quote:
YES!!!! We are allowed to evolve! It is our right as human beings to evolve. Who knows how we might have evolved if the Europeans didn't land in North America.
I'm not sure what your point is. Who knows how might have evolved if the Chinese decided to set up colonies here? Who knows how we might of evolved if the Aztecs decided to move north? We must face the world as it is. Not as we dream it to be. Canadians are here to stay, we are here to stay, we are married. What kind of spouse do you want your nation to be?
Mon, 2007-06-18 18:08
#17
remind
quote:
Originally posted by UrsaMinor:
[b] We need to stop listening to the lies of the city that push back the time when our young peopole have children. It will be tough and a struggle, but I have seen people come out of having children young, and they are ready and more mature to build a life - after they have seen and experienced the meaning of life. We need to keep having Indian babies. The city people are not replacing themselves because the city prefers an individual, adult worker to a family-member, worker-to-be-in-18-years.[/b]
You had me siding with you in several areas until you stated this. It seems to me every bit as destructive as having an all out war that was suggested above.
Tue, 2007-06-19 05:41
#18
Our people already live in the worst conditions that modern Canada has to offer. As I said, I don't believe in evil, in my heart and mind the wolf and the deer are brothers. The wolf chase the deer in order to make the herd stronger. The deer runs in order to keep the pack strong. Their other big job is to put hooves and paws on the ground.
Traditionally we had a support system for young families, due to assimilation, that support system has been damaged. We need to revive that support system again with healthy First Nation families.
If my people truely want to take back Canada and maintain their traditons - than making love is the best way to do it.
Tue, 2007-06-19 22:07
#19
remind
Yes, I agree that many FN peoples live in the worst conditions that Canadian has to offer.
Mansbridge did an excellent program tonight on Road Trip, that was entirely devoted to being pro-First Nations. Right from the those who are going to protest June 29th, to those who will on July 1st.
The program showed one of the worst living conditions on reserve and showed others that had goten the funding necessary to build a whole new village.
The portion of it that really made me mad is the "new government is holding back Health care monies and a woman dying from cancer could not get her meds because the federal government had not sent the money for health care costs to the Band office when they were supposed to.
There was a suggestion that this financial squeeze the CPC are putting on Band Councils is to force them into compliance.
Wed, 2007-06-20 11:02
#20
quote:
Originally posted by UrsaMinor:
[b] The protestors in Caledonia will stop protesting when they get what they want, they will not continue until every land claim in Canada is settled. Treating us like we are all one people is part of the reason we are in the mess we are in. [/b]
I've heard the protesters in Caledonia are going to be taking a stand against other issues as well. It may not be other land claims, that's for other FN communities to decide, but there's a galvanzing of sorts happening, and IMO, if FN communities can FINALLY reach out to their brothers and sisters in cross-cultural harmony and respect, then the ripple effect may very well effect members of the other 3 Sacred tribes and shades in between...
quote:
Originally posted by UrsaMinor:
[b] Sacred beliefs have been corrupted - by Christianity, by greed and by unhealthy attitudes - like being a victim. But this is a fight within ourselves, we cannot blame others for corrupting OUR sacred beliefs. We can blame others for for making them illegal under Canadian law, but that is oppression, not corruption. And those laws are gone. We will not take hold of our strengths, by wallowing in our weakness. [/b]
I believe Christianity itself was corrupted by occultic Catholicism. With that said, I have trouble avoiding the term victim. If someone is raped, male or female, adult or child, that's being victimized. By accepting the fact that the assault was inappropriate and FORCED upon the victim, one can then take the next step in remedying the problem by implementing various avenues of healing, such as taking hold of one's strengths and not wallowing in weakness as you said, which I agree with 1,000%! [img]wink.gif" border="0[/img]
quote:
Originally posted by UrsaMinor:
[b]If you mean to be a good neighbour, can you ever really say you have absolute power over the land? First Nations in the US have a lot more law making authority on their lands than First Nations in Canada. Can you show me a nation that has ever given another nation absolute control over, what it regards as, it's land? [/b]
I believe myself to be Terran not Canadian, and because of that belief IMO land IS to be shared. But there are elitist forces that aren't sharing and that's why I feel very strongly about resisting by myriad means within reason. Only the Creator has absolute power, but if it's within the means of those who care about ALL life on Mother Earth not just Turtle Island to oppose the desecration of life, then that ability should be expressed, FN or otherwise.
quote:
Originally posted by UrsaMinor:
[b]
If we had greater control of our resources - but damaged our relationship with the people who would buy those resources, sell us the equipement and fuel to extract those resources and also control all the roads leading out of the rez - what good will it do us? Land claims need to be addressed, in order to give us self-sufficeint communities, but taking a confrontational approach will only slow down the negotiations. Anger is not the best tool to make friends with. Time and time again young men on both sides of the 'line' have taken action that the Elders on both sides of the line then have to repair.
The free market system has its issues, but it is a lot more like our traditional trading systems than communism or socialism is. [/b]
IMO, the relationship was damaged before the colonizers even arrived, because they were the ones showing up with the anger because they weren't interested in making friends and still aren't. They are an extension of a very ancient eugenics movement that is now in position to establish a NWO that repeals rights waaaaay back. I understand hot-headedness is a poor way to implement conflict resolution, however negotiations trudge along at a snail's pace because the racist elitists have to throw crumbs out once in awhile to avoid dissention when voices are found.
quote:
Originally posted by UrsaMinor:
[b] Do you mean the Kelowna Accord or the Treaties. You start off with the Accord, but everything that follows refers to the Treaties.If BC is taken back, how will that help my people who live in Manitoba? [/b]
LOL! Once again I prove what I know... [img]rolleyes.gif" border="0[/img]
I thought the Kelowna Accord was about OFFICIALLY establishing FN territory in BC as there's currently no deeds or titles in the hands of the Canadian government regarding that swath of land. I'll have to look at that...; I saw in the paper recently it's just another pittance of a monetary handout distributed amongst the FN community which is the grouping that NorthernWoman is upset with me about?
IMO, taking back BC sets a precedent that FN tribes must be FULLY acknowledged with regards to hereditary rights.
quote:
Originally posted by UrsaMinor:
[b]
I don't believe in evil. I will say it is unhealthy, but you do not resolve an 'unhealthy' problem the same way you resolve and 'evil' one. [/b]
Elaborate...?
quote:
Originally posted by UrsaMinor:
[b]
If First Nations had municipal style governance, and a working democracy at all levels, wouldn't our communities eventually reflect our cultures as they worked through the democratic process? [/b]
The very idea is watering my eyes...; but if individuals in the communities are so thoroughly corrupted in doing things in 'westernized' fashion, can the cultural teachings be adequately expressed, as opposed to touristy type showcasings of traditional heritage that don't really reflect the VALUE in varied FN teachings?
quote:
Originally posted by UrsaMinor:
[b]
Obviously, there are warriors protecting the Red Road, or it would not have survived the decades of oppression, nor would you have been able to take part in a sweat. There is a lot of attention paid to the archtype of the Warrior - but unfortunately, our youth are focusing on the temporary solidier, and have forgotten about the most important and full-time warrior: the scout. The scout's job was to look out after the people, find resources and positives, and warn about trouble and danger. We need more scouts, less idiots with bandanas over their faces.
[/b]
Very well said; I would've went with centuries rather than decades though, but that's me. I've been made aware of how the classification of being a warrior has certainly been sullied with mindless violence and supported by engaging in highly criminal activity that damages their own communities, like crack, guns and prostitution to name a few.
But when the scout does find danger in the shape of a racist regime that's been marauding globally for centuries and is now in a technological postion to really ramp up oppression like days of old, what then do you think the role of the warrior is when danger's raiding community after community, FN or otherwise?
[ 20 June 2007: Message edited by: scy ]
Wed, 2007-06-20 15:02
#21
remind
scy, you have posted a couple of interesting points that are actually deep considerations, IMV.
quote:
..if individuals in the communities are so thoroughly corrupted in doing things in 'westernized' fashion, can the cultural teachings be adequately expressed, as opposed to touristy type showcasings of traditional heritage that don't really reflect the VALUE in varied FN teachings?
If individuals are so corrupted, as you say, by doing things in "westernized" fashion, that is their choice and they should not be judged as their being corrupt. What first comes to mind in this regard, is the Osoyoos Indian Band. IMV, having listened to the Chief and others in the Band, they would certainly not see themselves as being corrupted by western ideals, because they own a winery, vinyards, and a construction company.
Further, touristy types of things have their place on the educational path of teachings others what FN's are and what some of their beliefs. Moreover, a good number of FN's I know make their living, and a good one, off of the tourist industry, and it is a source of self esteem and pride in accomplishments for them as well.
Moreover, their "touristy" actions are bridge, in the realization that FN's are not the one dimensional negative stereotypes prevailent, for those who have little, or no, understanding of any FN's peoples.
Wed, 2007-06-20 21:50
#22
I also agree remind, that those are things of deep consideration. Sharing our knowledge is the root of change. But I think that the touristy things that scy is referring is something contrary to indigenous beliefs. Passing on knowledge, in a touristy way, is the wrong way of effecting your responsibilities to pass the traditional knowledge on. And noting some of the things ursaminor is saying, it’s important that enough of our ancestors preserved the knowledge of our core values and have not shared them in a touristy way.
Ah... could people please be careful when identifying with the concept of “rights”. It’s not something that everyone believe’s as a universal indigenous entitlement. At least from my perspective. Because I believe that not all cultures share this western concept. My world view forbids it actually. But If you do identify with it, then I have a responsibility to respect that of you. But don’t use the term as though it’s representative among all Anishnabek. For my part, it’s a term that’s only useful within the western legal tradition. Not in an Anishnabek worldview.
And be careful with terms like stewardship. The term implies that we are here to manage the Earth, when in fact the Earth can manage itself quite well without our intervention. We’re not here to manage the Earth, we’re only here to manage our own actions and manage how we bring effect to our obligations.
From my part the National Day of Action is intended to educate the public and to remember the past. It’s important not to forget the things that make us who we are today. That knowledge is something that belongs to the future though. And we should be careful, and respectful, of what we do with that knowledge.
Wed, 2007-06-20 22:16
#23
remind
quote:
Originally posted by sknguy:
[b]I also agree remind, that those are things of deep consideration. Sharing our knowledge is the root of change. But I think that the touristy things that scy is referring is something contrary to indigenous beliefs. Passing on knowledge, in a touristy way, is the wrong way of effecting your responsibilities to pass the traditional knowledge on. [/b]
I am not sure of what touristy things scy was referring to, as it was not stated. However, the touristy things I am referring to are for example; carving in public venues and telling a surface perspective of the figures that the carvings represents, traditional dancing, drumming and singing at venues where special requests have been given, taking part in museum and national gallery exhibitions, and opening art galleries/store fronts to attract tourists to purchase FN art work and other FN creations.
Thu, 2007-06-21 08:00
#24
remind
quote:
Ottawa gives land to band threatening to block railsIndian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice has quietly defused the most likely hot spot of aboriginal protest this summer, adding 75 acres of new reserve land to the Manitoba community that threatened rail blockades and economic havoc.
Chief Terry Nelson of the Roseau River First Nation said his community decided Tuesday evening to call off the planned blockade of a CN rail line, specifically because of the minister's decision.
[url=http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20070621.NATIVES21/TPSt... negotiating offers for two of the most aggressive native communities - Roseau River and Caledonia - some are questioning the message being sent to the more than 600 other reserves in the country.[/url]
This a G&M link, and it really is a pro-CPC article.
Thu, 2007-06-21 08:57
#25
Scy, you obviously have a different idea of what the Red Road means from what I think it means. I don't believe in spoon feeding people who are asking to learn, so I'll just say that all the answers to your second round of questions can already be found in my postings on this thread.
I will address this:
quote:
The very idea is watering my eyes...; but if individuals in the communities are so thoroughly corrupted in doing things in 'westernized' fashion, can the cultural teachings be adequately expressed, as opposed to touristy type showcasings of traditional heritage that don't really reflect the VALUE in varied FN teachings?
When I mentioned that one option (and that is what it is - just one option) I was thinking of Hutterite communities and how they reflect the culture of the people within them. Now, if Canadians can accept the fact that our communities - if given a proper democratic system - will reflect our cultures to the extent that Hutterite communities enjoy, than I think that is a step forward. Democracy isn't an entirely Western European system, however they have had the most opportunity to develop that system in a modern context. Why shouldn't First Nation people take what we want of 'modern democracy' and leave the rest. Just like all cultures do with their neighbour's technology, products, culture and beliefs.
Thu, 2007-06-21 12:05
#26
Too many Aboriginal people have been led to believe that they are just a burden on society. They have been made to feel that they do not have the right to ask for anything. Until recently Aboriginal contributions remained unrecognized outside of the disciplines of anthropology and archaeology. People throughout the world enjoyed the contributions of Aboriginal people without being aware of their origin. Below is a book that recognizes these contributions.
[i]Indian Givers: How the Indians of the Americas Transformed the World (Print-Non-Fiction). Weatherford, J. McIver. Fawcett Bk. Group (RAN), 1989. 272 p. ISBN 0-449-90496-2 ($13.50 pbk.). [/i]
Thu, 2007-06-21 14:42
#27
quote:
Ah... could people please be careful when identifying with the concept of “rights”. It’s not something that everyone believe’s as a universal indigenous entitlement. At least from my perspective. Because I believe that not all cultures share this western concept. My world view forbids it actually. But If you do identify with it, then I have a responsibility to respect that of you. But don’t use the term as though it’s representative among all Anishnabek. For my part, it’s a term that’s only useful within the western legal tradition. Not in an Anishnabek worldview.
The idea of rights is western in origin. But it's useful to everyone. When I defended native people participating in the Ipperwash occupation, rights were critical. Several cases were won because we were able to insist on certain rights.
In some traditions, respect for others may not be conceptualized in terms of "rights", but surely the idea that every person ought to be allowed to speak, to have an opinion, and to be free from assault, are important.
As well, the right to land hasn't been respected in Canada, but if I were native, I wouldn't be saying that "we don't believe in rights."
Thu, 2007-06-21 16:08
#28
Mr House, I have a tendency to agree with you that the concepts contained within the idea of 'rights' can be found in all cultures. For example, if one of our Seven Sacred Teachings is 'honesty', than it would seem to follow that an idea within that teaching could also be stated that a person has a 'right' to not be lied to when dealing in affairs with non-family members.
I would be interested in hearing Sknguy's definition of 'right', and suspect he maybe talking about ownership of land, but I'm not sure... Sknguy?
Fri, 2007-06-22 10:54
#29
quote:
Originally posted by remind:
[b]I am not sure of what touristy things scy was referring to, as it was not stated. [/b]
It was more of a sense when I wrote it, but seeing as I'm being asked to clarify my thoughts, up,up, and away! LOL!
I see Indian wannabes, like NorthernWoman accused me of being, here in Thunder Bay who're well read on traditions, customs, teachings, holding seminars, symposiums, gatherings, and making a shite-load of money as a consultant.
I see pow-wows that have adopted a practise of rewarding 'the best' dancer. There are so-called elders who talk in lodges about how to be, yet beat their spouse. So I guess my dancing around the subject and trying not to be accusatory merely added to the confusion.
I chose 'touristy' and 'westernized' in the hopes others would read between the lines with regards to not 'walking the talk', which is what I think the Red Road means to me; even though I think the Red Road certainly carries varied significance for all.
I just think it's easy for someone to say this is what I hold dear, but their actions say otherwise, like the corrupt politicians and their corruptable minions from whatever tribe aiding and abetting the cultic assimilation.
It seems to me that before the Columbian (the real Columbus from the HIS-STORY books) branch of the Bavarian Illuminati showed up on Turtle Island, leaders were chosen because they spoke truth; however, the lure of power and materialistic gain has influenced the commodification of teachings that I understand to be given when the recipient is ready for them.
The struggle I'm having on my Red Road is, I currently believe that negotiations arose hundreds of years back because the eugenic colonizers were well crafted in appearing benevolant. So, I'm left to wonder if talking would have been preferred if the sociopaths showed up with guns ablazing, rather than vamboozling bit by bit over time because they knew there was no other way to conquer one of the most powerful nations they'd ever laid eyes on.
The vamboozling continues and now it's just easier because numbers are decimated, and quite frankly, the desecration of land, water, air, and people is simply accepted as 'enjoying one's rights to unrestricted freedom', but at the expense of so many others.
The enemy isn't plunging a knife into our bellies and looking in our eyes as they do it; we're slowly being lanced, and that's why so many people are now sheeples and totally unaware of their life being sapped from them, personally and environmentally, by those proud to be destroyers of worlds.
Fri, 2007-06-22 11:20
#30
Makwa
quote:
Originally posted by scy:
[b]I see Indian wannabes, like NorthernWoman[/b]
scy, I'm not very happy about you attacking FN posters like NW because she is not radical enough for your taste. Aggressive and rude white activists are of no benefit to FN people. Moreover, FN people recognize a distinction between commercial pow-wow and traditional, even if you don't like it. You come across like a frothing convert, eyes blazing with rightous indignation for something that you don't have to live, however you 'follow the red road'. I would appreciate it if you would just calm down a little bit, and stop insulting the handful of FN posters we have here, please.
Fri, 2007-06-22 12:06
#31
quote:
Originally posted by Makwa:
[b]scy, I'm not very happy about you attacking FN posters like NW because she is not radical enough for your taste. Aggressive and rude white activists are of no benefit to FN people. Moreover, FN people recognize a distinction between commercial pow-wow and traditional, even if you don't like it. You come across like a frothing convert, eyes blazing with rightous indignation for something that you don't have to live, however you 'follow the red road'. I would appreciate it if you would just calm down a little bit, and stop insulting the handful of FN posters we have here, please.[/b]
Put words in my mouth if you wish, but I said I see 'Indian wannabes', like NW ACCUSED me of being, plying their trade here in Thunder Bay; I did not say NW is an Indian wannabe, like your quote denotes.
I've already said it's my opinion that a balance of negotiating and actual action not just askin' is a way to keep FN issues on the frontburner. The Canadian government is an occupying racist terrorist regime; and I don't feel they should be negotiated with, because they've made their intentions clear, to appease with crumbs so their slaveitudinal infrastructure remains intact so long as the people are unbalanced and divided, which is exactly what the handouts achieve.
Moreover, you yourself are grouping FN's by saying THEY recognize the difference between commercial and traditional pow-wows. Some do, some don't.
I may not be frothing (nice description -LOL!), but my mind's certainly blazin', because the NWO is festering quick-time, and we're all going to be 'living' it, because the masses are asleep at the switch.
I'm more calm than you're obviously perceiving, but my words are certainly strong because I feel that's what's needed to wake people up. The truth hurts these days, it probably felt better before sociopathic eugenicists spanned the globe.
If you think me pointing out that there are immense amounts of FN's who've been completely corrupted is insulting, well, just like you and NW don't want to sugar-coat the fact that I'm an activist...ooops...a WHITE activist( [img]rolleyes.gif" border="0[/img] ),
I don't want to sugar-coat that fact either.
BTW, is Spanish white, brown or beige? LOL!
Fri, 2007-06-22 12:21
#32
Makwa
quote:
Originally posted by scy:
[b]Put words in my mouth if you wish, but I said I see 'Indian wannabes', like NW ACCUSED me of being, plying their trade here in Thunder Bay; I did not say NW is an Indian wannabe, like your quote denotes.[/b]
I agree that I misread this, and I apologize on that point, but I still think you have been very disrespectful to NW in this and other posts, perhaps out of zeal.
I don't wish to debate the appropriateness of the commercial pow-wow circuit, except to say that I don't think that I would attend one, although perhaps I could be convinced. And no, I don't want to get into a discussion of degrees of Euro-ness. You have self-identified as of 'European Bloodlines', which to me makes you no less able to analyze from an anti-racist point of view.
However, when you repeatedly attack FN posters, and declaim your traditional aboriginal teachings, I am concerned that this could be alienating to FN posters here, who have been repeatedly alienated in the past by posters who have parroted the colonialist line. There are well established FN posters who rarely post here because of prior conflict and painful exchanges. If you take some time to read through the threads in this very new forum, you will find a lot of anger and contention. That is why I am asking you to refrain from some of the harsher judgements you have directed at specific posters. This is supossed to be an FN positive space, and has yet to achieve anything like it. Perhaps with a little more circumspection, you may be able to help that to come about.
Fri, 2007-06-22 13:50
#33
quote:
Quote JH:
In some traditions, respect for others may not be conceptualized in terms of "rights", but surely the idea that every person ought to be allowed to speak, to have an opinion, and to be free from assault, are important.
The way I would enjoy my ability to speak, to have an opinion, and feel secure from harm is through the exercise of other's obligations towards me. In other words, the responsibility of others to respect all things and all others. Everyone possesses such obligations. It's the reason why the newcomer Europeans were welcomed. We had many responsibilities and obligations towards them. It wasn’t because we pitied them.
As for “respect”? Respect is only the expression of an intent. It’s a value. How do you administer an intent or value? The idea of respect, on it’s own, is non-enforceable. What gives effect to the intent, or value, are the beliefs.
We can’t look through Anishnabe concepts and find any equivalents, or even paradigms. We might pick and choose certain ideas and practices that look similar. But if we do that, then those ideas cease being Anishanabe, since we’d then associate them as notions of rights. The Elders that I've spoken too have warned me about this concept of "rights". It's a western concept for which there is no equivalence in Anishnabe thinking. Or Anishnabe world view.
Personally, I struggled a long time to come to terms with the inequalities of society. I used to believe wholly in the concept of "rights". This was at a time when I understood little about the icons of my culture. But if "rights" were the be-all-end-all way of doing things, then why was society so cruel, competitive , and just down right mean to individuals and groups in society? Specially considering the sincere intent of what rights wanted to be.
Academics and legal theorists are exploring ways of attaching responsibilities to rights. This is in response to the runaway development of the concept. They’re trying to reign in rights because the perception is that society may be taking the idea of rights too far. Rights are about entitlement, which is in opposition to Anishnabe thinking. We have no entitlements here. We have no entitlements to the land, or things derived from the land. We have only the responsibility to use them respectfully.
I’ll give you another example. I’ll use this notion of a “Right to Self-Determination”. In an Anishnabe perspective we’d have only a responsibility to be self determined, not a right to be self determined. It’s our responsibility to the environment, and to each other, to govern ourselves respectfully. If you deny me the opportunity to bring effect to my obligations, then you’d be denying me the opportunity to bring effect to my beliefs. The core of who I am. Who I am is my obligations. That’s why laws are very personal to an Anishnabe. We take personal responsibility for laws. And in that respect Jeff, I’d be secure. I hope you can understand that a little better.
Just to add:
I forgot to address your question UrsaMinor. But yes, just as rights are an all or nothing concept, so too are obligations an all or nothing concept. The two are fundamentally incompatible. I’d learned quickly that rights apply to nothing. Not even our copywritable thoughts, lol. Everything belongs to the generations to come, and the same will apply to them.
And for JeffHouse’s concern about not saying “we don’t believe in rights”... let me rephrase your paraphrasing. “I don’t believe in rights”, I can’t speak for every Anishnabe. And I’d really have no qualms about expressing that in a court. How far that would take me within a western legal system? Probably not far. Because they’re not really equipped for paradoxes. But then again, why should the beliefs of Anishnabe culture need to conform to the tests and rules of another?
Sorry for being so far off topic saga.
[ 22 June 2007: Message edited by: sknguy ]
Sat, 2007-06-23 07:53
#34
quote:
Originally posted by Makwa:
[b]
However, when you repeatedly attack FN posters, and declaim your traditional aboriginal teachings, I am concerned that this could be alienating to FN posters here, who have been repeatedly alienated in the past by posters who have parroted the colonialist line. There are well established FN posters who rarely post here because of prior conflict and painful exchanges. If you take some time to read through the threads in this very new forum, you will find a lot of anger and contention. That is why I am asking you to refrain from some of the harsher judgements you have directed at specific posters. This is supossed to be an FN positive space, and has yet to achieve anything like it. Perhaps with a little more circumspection, you may be able to help that to come about.[/b]
What I've yet to understand is why it's only seen as me being disrespectful. There's those who wish to be more radical, and they're just as entitled to do so as those wishing to negotiate, and by saying that negotiation is the only way, can be offensive in itself. There are collaborators and enablers in EVERY one of the Four Sacred Tribes, and even that is their right. I would not deny NW to negotiate settlement after settlement, but it's my belief, that is a way of saying there's a finite dollar value on the suffering inflicted here or ANYWHERE, and I strongly disagree with that.
We ALL have to do what we feel we need to do, but if NW is going to slam me for being a WHITE activist, when I'm much more than that, then I've no problem sending her trash yak right back. I'm a puppy that can never learn enough in my lifetime, but for you or anyone else to claim they've got the ultimate answer on what's best for anyone, I find incredibly absurd. I think the best we as a human species can strive for is to try and achieve a RESPECTFUL balance among the varied tribes, then when the ones holding the biggest gun take advantage of what they consider a superior flanking position, and clearly state with meager settlements they've no honourable intentions to play fair, then there's nothing wrong with pushing the bully back.
Nicely askin' WITH reasonable action is what I'm trying to get across, and I'm trying not to harshly judge of course, but so much suffering makes me want to scream from whatever rooftop I can climb to garner attention to the agenda of the occupying racist regime; and for being a harsh judge, I am TRULY sorry for that.
Wed, 2007-06-27 14:01
#35
Look y'all, former PM Martin has just asked that nothin'outta the ordinary take place on the 29th, that everything is just fine... Progress is being make, and the Kelowna distraction will one day be fully implemented... SO please, listen to the former PM, and do nothing.
Fawk.
Fri, 2022-07-01 14:14
#36
Fri, 2022-07-01 14:21
#37
2nd Annual Cancel Canada Day, Indigenous Resilience
We will meet at Portage & Main @ 5PM then March to the Legislative Building where we will have our speakers.
Our March will once again be led by the Screaming Thunder Wolf Drum Group.
Opening Prayer by Grandmother Martina.
We will speak on every single act of Genocide that Canada has committed against First Nations Peoples & how it's affected us.
Our speakers include:
Grandmother Belinda - Clan Mother & Residential School Survivor
Tara Martinez - MMIWG2S/Exploitation/CSA Survivor
Michael Yellowwing Kannon - Residential School Survivor & First Nations Veteran
Diandra Powderhorn - Addictions, Mental Health & Child Welfare/Warfare Advocate
Brìelle Beardy - Two Spirit Advocate & Community Auntie
Sherry McKay - Indigenous Tiktok Influencer
Tyler Robinson(Ojibwayman) - Indigenous Tiktok Influencer
We'd also like to make a call out for drummers & dancers, let's show them our culture is strong despite their efforts to break us.
#everychildmatters
#landback
#nomorestolen
#mmip
#abolishcfs
Allies are welcome.
Fri, 2022-07-01 16:29
#38
I support them. No celebration of 'Canada Day' on Stolen Lands!
Fri, 2022-07-01 17:59
#39
Anti-Canada day? Okay then.
Fri, 2022-07-01 23:05
#40
laine lowe
The event at The Forks, a sacred space for Indigenous people in Winnipeg, curated activities that focused on reflection and knowledge sharing in the spirit of Truth and Reconcilliation. They named the event "New Day" as opposed to Canada Day celebrations. Lots of people in the city were ticked off that there would be no Canada Day party at the Forks. It wasn't as if they were denied festivies as there were many food/music events and fireworks at Assinaboine Downs and family oriented events and live music at Assinaboine Park.
Sun, 2022-07-03 20:21
#41
2 injured in stabbing, pepper-spraying incident after July 1 celebrations at The Forks
One person was stabbed and another pepper-sprayed in an incident at The Forks as July 1 celebrations were winding down Friday — the latest in a spate of violence at the public space in recent days at the Winnipeg historic site.
In the past week, The Forks has been the site of several violent crimes.
A father and daughter were assaulted and robbed in a parking lot on Monday around 8 p.m.
Two days later, two men were stabbed after midnight outside The Forks Market and sent to hospital in critical condition.
The Forks officials have responded by increasing security and asking for additional support from police and the Downtown Safety Partnership, the spokesperson said.
Mon, 2022-07-04 15:13
#42
