This article was last updated on April 16, 2022
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The supporters of ‘Idle No More’ movement initiated by First Nations protesters have still kept the CN Rail line blocked in Sarnia, Ont. since seven days. The supporters have announced to continue their strike until and unless the Prime Minister Stephen Harper meets with Attawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence.
A supporter of the Aamjiwnaang First Nation who is currently representing the movement during blockade, Ron Plain, alleged that the supporters will continue the blockade even after the meetings. He stated that “our position here in Aamjiwnaang is not just about getting a meeting with the prime minister; it`s about following through on the commitments that are made when that meeting takes place.” He explained that “last year, as you recall, Attawapiskat (First Nation in northern Ontario) was promised the world when everybody showed up at their door. None of those promises were fulfilled. What we are saying here in Aamjiwnaang is that we will keep the blockade up until we see that the promises that are going to be made are being fulfilled.”
The blockade has kept the rail line closed, which currently serves few chemical and refining plants in what’s been dubbed Chemical Valley. A recent court injunction asks the blockade to be ended, but Mayor of Sarnia, Mike Bradley, promises not to do so as long as the demonstration is peaceful. Plain points out that “the rail line where we are standing is illegally on our property. They don’t have a permit to cross our road, and they need a permit from both the band and Indian Affairs Canada.” Plain justifies that “that’s why we’ve chosen that spot to take our stand.”
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