Members of the Stoney Nakoda First Nation gathered peacefully on Dec. 16 to rally against the federal government’s Bill C-45.
More than 100 people of all ages walked along the eastbound Highway 1 near Morley, blocking one lane of traffic, in an effort to bring attention to the omnibus budget bill. Community elders followed the march on a school bus.
Eastward-travelling cars were slowed as activists waved their flags and flaunted their signs, but the rally remained peaceful. Some activists attempted to hand out pamphlets detailing the Idle No More movement to passing motorists.
“We’re here to raise awareness for our people and our neighbours,” said Alison Poucette, one of the protest organizers. “It’s time we were heard. So many people don’t even know this (Bill C-45) is going on.”
The bill includes amendments that some First Nation peoples believe may affect the way reserve lands are managed, as well as result in weakened environmental legislation and waterway protection.
The legislation was passed through Senate on Dec. 14 with a majority vote, but it still has to be signed off on by governor general David Johnston to become law.
Similar rallies are being held across the country as part of Idle No More — a grassroots campaign that aims to protect the treaty rights and resources of Canada’s First Nations communities.
