Over the past few months, Idle No More has ignited a spiritual fire in the hearts of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples to come together to address issues related to: Honoring Treaties and Indigenous Sovereignty, Human Rights, Deepening Democracy reflecting a meaningful Nation to Nation relationship, and increasing Environmental Protections and protecting Mother Earth.
In March, Idle No More joined forces with Defenders of the Land to launch a Declaration that calls on all People to participate in a campaign that was called “Solidarity Spring” and “Sovereignty Summer”.
Idle No More and Defenders of the Land are now transitioning into Sovereignty Summer and people are calling for increased and escalated activities. The actions aim to bring attention to the Harper government agenda that undermines the rights of Indigenous Peoples, Canadian citizens, and the ongoing policies disrupting Indigenous peoples’ lives – such as land claims, third party management, and no free and prior consent to development on Indigenous lands. We are in a critical time where lives, lands, waters and Creation are at-risk and they must be protected.
The Harper government is moving quickly to pass the suite of legislation (C-45, C-428, S-2, S-6, S-8, S-212, C-27, and the First Nation Education Act) that undermines the treaties, our nation-to-nation relationship and Indigenous sovereignty, which is the last stand to protect our lands. Idle No More calls on non-Indigenous people to join Indigenous communities in coordinated non-violent direct actions in the summer. Alternatives will only come to life if we escalate our actions, taking bold non-violent direct action that challenges the illegitimate power of corporations who dictate government policy.
People have been inspired to engage in creative activities of reclaiming, resurgence and resistance in exercising their Nationhood in ways they see appropriate for them. There has been a historic “Turtle Lodge Treaty” signing ceremony on Indigenous education, nations have reclaimed sacred spaces and peoples continue to protect their lands from invasion. There is a spiritual energy stirring and a large awakening is on the horizon as we transition to Sovereignty Summer. The spirit in which Idle No More began was through the resurgence of Indigenous laws and it is only appropriate for the resurgence of our spiritual and ceremonial practices – which are the foundation of our Nations – to guide us into this transitioning period. The time for Unity and Solidarity is NOW, our future generations are depending on us and asking us to come together to think about what we will leave for them.
Leading into Sovereignty Summer, Idle No More calls on all people to join in a grassroots gathering for a Public Awareness Campaign in all Cities, Towns, Indigenous Communities and Villages across Canada and Internationally.
WHEN:
An on-going gathering and occupation, starting on Saturday, May 25, 2013 at 5:00pm and continuing once a week, at the same time and at the same place as people/ groups see appropriate for them. As we move closer to summer, Nations/peoples/ groups may want to increase the frequency of their gatherings to each day of the week on a consistent basis.
WHERE:
People can determine for themselves the appropriate location that has significance to them. For those in urban Centre’s this could be: prominent Government Buildings (Federal or Provincial) in Canada and at Canadian Embassies around the World. For those in their communities, this could be sacred sites, places of cultural importance and locations that are significant to people.
WHY:
To bring awareness to the public at large of the mission of the Idle No More Movement. To honor, fulfill and solidify Unity and Solidarity with all who support Idle No More in your community, city, town or village. This is not a onetime event but an ONGOING CAMPAIGN leading into Sovereignty Summer.
HOW:
Gather, Occupy, Rally and bring your songs, dancing, drums, signs, banner, flags and get to know and network with those who share your passion for the mission of the Idle No More Movement. Those events that wish to end with a March are encouraged to do so if your numbers permit.
The following Events and ongoing Activities have confirmed their participation in this Call to Action:
Our Water is NOT for Sale
Edmonton, AB
Friday May 24, 2013 10:30-2:00
March from Canada Place to Alberta Legislature
Grassroots Gathering Public Awareness Campaign
Toronto, ON
Starting Saturday May 25, 2013 at 5:00pm (Every Saturday)
Queens Park, University Ave and College Street
March afterward if numbers permit
Million First Peoples March and Welcoming the Sacred Journey Walkers
Ottawa, ON
June 21, 2013
Ottawa, ON
Parliament Hill
The inspiration for this Call to Action came from an Idle No More supporter in the Toronto region and other supporters asking for people to come together to take action to bring attention to the current Harper agenda and ongoing narrative of colonialism.
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