Every time you turn on the television or read the newspaper these days, there are reports about the Idle No More movement and the demonstrations, round dances, or other protests being undertaken largely by men and women of Aboriginal descent. It is, without question, one of the major stories developing in Canada right now and has garnered attention all over the world.
At the heart of the issue is legislation that has been introduced by the federal government that many within the Aboriginal community feel will be detrimental to our environment, particularly our waterways. In addition, over time, other issues that are important to Aboriginal peoples (land claims, treaty obligations, issues related to education and training, abolishing the Indian Act, Aboriginal rights, etc.) have also become part of the national conversation.
Recently, MGEU President Michelle Gawronsky had a chance to sit down with Aboriginal activist Michael Redhead Champagne, ask a few questions about the Idle No More movement and talk about why the federal government is being asked to “re-set” the relationship with Aboriginal peoples in this country. Check out the video from that conversation.
Common Causes Rally and MFL Flash Mob Today
- This afternoon, the Manitoba Federation of Labour (MFL) invite you to attend a Flash Mob and Round Dance at the Manitoba Legislature at 5pm.
- The MGEU’s National Union (NUPGE) will also rally today at noon in Ottawa with Idle No More Protesters under the banner of “Common Causes” as Members of Parliament head back to work and Parliament resumes.
Common Causes/Causes Communes is an assembly of movements dedicated to defending democracy, social justice, the environment and human rights. It brings together groups and individuals across the country to act together for a better society in the face of the current federal government’s agenda that is weakening environmental protections, cutting public services and jobs, ignoring workers’ rights, attacking civil liberties and eroding democracy.