Chief Spencer to Harper: We don't want a paternalistic relationship, but a “Nation to Nation” meeting because We are Sovereign Nations.
Chief Theresa Spence is standing firm on her request that both Prime Minster and Governor General of Canada need to be present and participate at the meeting with First Nation leaders. This statement comes on the heels of the Governor General announcing his invite to meet at a “ceremonial” meeting without the Prime Minster in attendance.
“We need to meet with the Prime Minster and Governor General of Canada together and ensure that fairness at the table. The attitudes and treatment towards our Indigenous Peoples needs to change with this current government. We can no longer have a paternalistic relationship and be dictated to.
Since last year’s, First Nations Crown meeting, our Peoples have not seen any results and in fact it’s been quite the opposite with a suite of First Nations legislation without any Free, Prior and Informed consent. At this point, the Honour of the Crown has been sullied by the actions of the government of Canada,” stated Chief Spence.
Chiefs unanimously support Chief Spence’s hunger strike and are advocating for a “Nation to Nation” meeting with both the Prime Minster and Governor General. The historical meeting that took place last night saw Chiefs and supporters standing in solidarity with the Peoples and their movement, “Idle No More.
“I clearly stated from the very beginning that the meeting has to include both the Governor General and the Prime Minister in attendance. We continue to push for justice, equality and fairness for all Indigenous Peoples, “stated Chief Theresa Spence.
Chief Spence is on her 32nd day of her hunger strike and continues to subsist off of fish broth and medicinal tea. Her physical state has been weakened but is strong in spirit and remains steadfast in her position.
“Our Peoples need hope for their future and we cannot deny them this right as original Peoples of this land. We continue to pray for peace and seek guidance from our spiritual leaders on this path of recognition and implementation of our Inherent and Treaty Rights,” concluded Chief Spence.
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WONDER WHO IS FEEDING CHIEF SPENCE AT THE HOTEL OR ELSEWHERE SHE SHOULD BE SKINNY AND DIEING BY THIS TIME - THIS LADY IS LOSING HER HOLD ON THINGS .SOON HER OWN PEOPLE WILL SEE THAT AND SHE WILL BE FINISHED. I LOVE NATIVE INDIAN FOLKS AND TRULY BELEIVE THAT HELP AND CHANGE IS NEEDED -( PLEASE DO NOT LOSE MY RESPECT BY BEING DOWN RIGHT STUPID)
What an idiot the comment above me. This woman is inspiring the whole world and who are you to lecture the "Native Indian Folks" about what they should see?
Ghondi did it. Its a very peaceful way to protest. I think she is an excellent example to others. I hope it works. If more followed, it could have a big impact.
Chief Spence is speaking the truth. The governments of both Canada and the US treat our Nations as a novelty when meeting with us and not with the same seriousness and respect that Foreign Nations receive. It is condescending.
You have no doubt noticed, as I have, that the suits always treat blue collar and plaid folks
with paternalistic condescension. Keep up the good fight. You are the spearhead for all us white guys with only one vote every four years to express our disgust with these conartists.
Somebody has to take a turn and try something. In all aspects of native life it is hard to survive nevermind thrive in Canada. GOD help our seventh generation. After this somebody is next. There will always be somebody next.
Anonymous above, you have a lot to learn but I'll pray for you, that's our way, to pay for the naive, the corrupt, our enemies. We are fighting for our future and that of our children. We are not concerned with your view of us. Our creator guides us. Lulululululululululu for Chief Spence for her courage, her wisdom, and her ability to relight our fire!
People of all colors and backgrounds should see from this that you can not trust any governments. They lie, cheat and steal from everybody. The leaders in Canada are just like the leaders in American. They are not men of honor that has died a long time ago. They do not have to account for their actions therefore, they think they are above us. DO NOT TRUST MEN OF NO HONOR OR INTRIGDY.
At the very least, it is wonderful that the Native People have a voice these days. One can only hope it becomes stronger than the two faced white leaders. Personally I believe the Native People should be leading their country and not white people at all. It's time to turn the tables and give the land back to the true keepers. Gaia waterlow
Agreed. Anonymous above, may the creator open your eyes and your heart to see Chief Spence and our people are fighting for your rights as well as you sit idly by judging us.