Members of the Stoney Nakoda First Nation gathered peacefully on Dec. 16 to rally against the federal government’s Bill C-45.
The omnibus bill was more than 400 pages long and included changes to the Indian Act and a number of other acts, which some First Nations groups say may affect how decisions are made.
More than 100 people of all ages walked along 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 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.
Wild Rose MP Blake Richards said he was surprised by the protest.
“I support the right to peacefully protest,” said Richards. “But not one single person at that protest has ever contacted my office about this bill.”
Richards said he held an open house in late spring in Morley regarding Bill C-45 and only two people attended.
Richards said those two specifically asked the bill include some of the measures that were later put in. Richards added many band leaders across Canada also spoke in favour of the changes.
Richards said the part of Bill C-45 that deals specifically with First Nations make economic development processes simpler.
“It makes a greater efficiency in the process when there are outside businesses that want to work with First Nations,” he said.
“It does nothing to remove any treaty rights.”
Richards said the federal government is working towards providing improved education for First Nations, making it easier for bands to do business and increasing transparency and accountability.
