Peaceful Protesters Close Bridge in Support of Idle No More Movement and Chief Spence

On Saturday, January 5, both Native and non-Native people marched in what was billed as a peaceful march across the north and south span bridges in the territory of Akwesasne. Most marchers parked at the road beside American customs, and prepared to march. Beginning at around 10:30 marchers crossed the south span bridge, and a second group followed not long after. Both groups merged, and with singers and drummers at the fore, proceeded to march across the north span bridge over to Cornwall, Ontario. The march closed the bridge for a period on Saturday, but traffic was allowed to pass once the march was completed.

The crowd sang, and some carried signs announcing their intentions, their displeasure with the state of affairs for First Nations, and their support for Atawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence, who at the time of the march had not eaten solid food since December 11th. As you may have heard by now, Chief Spence will continue her hunger strike until Prime Minister Stephen Harper meets with aboriginal leaders. After being issued a 72 hour ultimatum by Chief Spence, Prime Minister Harper’s office announced a meeting is to be held On Friday January 11th, and Chief Spence will continue her fast until that meeting occurs and progress is made.

The march continued over the northern span bridge and continued all the way around the traffic circle on Brookdale Avenue in Cornwall. Cornwall Police closed down Brookdale at 9th street and again at the tollbooth to ensure the safety of demonstrators. Once across, a round dance started where all participants held hands and they were able to completely surround the traffic circle. There was a pair of demonstrators who climbed the rock in the middle of the traffic circle below the Canadian Flag and held a Warriors and Confederacy flag high above their heads.

The crowd eventually ambled over to an area in front of the Ramada where people gathered around drummers and singers, watching and listening while they sang a few more songs. Following that, people began to make their way back to Kawehno:ke where more singing and dancing took place.

Many people were out in support of issues important to First Nations, Native and Non-Native, young and old, and they showed this support in a peaceful and productive manner. The message that First Nations intend to be taken seriously, and will no longer sit by idly while decisions that impact them gravely are made for them, was made clearly and powerfully.