The border is a place that clearly divides two areas but on Saturday, the Canada-US border crossing in Osoyoos was used to symbolize the division between Canada’s First Nations people and the federal government.
About 100 people gathered at the southernmost tip of the Okanagan Valley and edge of Canada to spread the message of Idle No More.
The group is concerned about the federal government’s omnibus bill. They say it threatens their treaty rights and Canada’s natural resources.
Organizer Billie Kruger says Okanagan residents need to sit up and listen.
“It doesn’t only affect First Nations people. If we start seeing pollution happening within [Okanagan] waterways, lakes and river systems, that could be really harmful to the economy here, for small business and for people within the community,” Kruger said.
Demonstrators drummed and sang to make their presence known. Kruger says the protests are meant to be peaceful.
“History has shown itself that being angry and acting out in anger has gotten us nowhere,” she said.
Supporters believe unity is critical to the cause.
“It’s a wake up call for everybody,” said Yves Yannonnie, who is Metis.
“We’re all together here. It’s pretty cool,” said RJ Edward from Okanagan Nation.
“It’s got to happen sooner or later. If we don’t come together as Native people, what’s next if we don’t stand together and support each other?” said Dustin Goodwater from Okanagan Nation.
Kruger predicts the Idle No More movement is here to stay and will continue to apply pressure on the federal government.
“Until we see meaningful results, changes in legislature, this is going to continue.”
The protest in Osoyoos was just one of several taking place across the country. Other demonstrations were held in Surrey, Niagara Falls and Fort Erie.
About 100 people gathered at the southernmost tip of the Okanagan Valley and edge of Canada to spread the message of Idle No More.
The group is concerned about the federal government’s omnibus bill. They say it threatens their treaty rights and Canada’s natural resources.
Organizer Billie Kruger says Okanagan residents need to sit up and listen.
“It doesn’t only affect First Nations people. If we start seeing pollution happening within [Okanagan] waterways, lakes and river systems, that could be really harmful to the economy here, for small business and for people within the community,” Kruger said.
Demonstrators drummed and sang to make their presence known. Kruger says the protests are meant to be peaceful.
“History has shown itself that being angry and acting out in anger has gotten us nowhere,” she said.
Supporters believe unity is critical to the cause.
“It’s a wake up call for everybody,” said Yves Yannonnie, who is Metis.
“We’re all together here. It’s pretty cool,” said RJ Edward from Okanagan Nation.
“It’s got to happen sooner or later. If we don’t come together as Native people, what’s next if we don’t stand together and support each other?” said Dustin Goodwater from Okanagan Nation.
Kruger predicts the Idle No More movement is here to stay and will continue to apply pressure on the federal government.
“Until we see meaningful results, changes in legislature, this is going to continue.”
The protest in Osoyoos was just one of several taking place across the country. Other demonstrations were held in Surrey, Niagara Falls and Fort Erie.
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