Raymond Robinson Continues Hunger Strike

Raymond Robinson, an Elder from the Cross Lake First Nation continues his hunger strike consisting of water and tea, while Chief Spence continues her fast abstaining from solid food and sustaining herself on fish broth and herbal teas. Robinson started his fast just 10 hours after Chief Spence started her fast. On January 11, 2013, just moments before the Idle No More protest began, he gave a short interview.

 He sat alone, on a log chopped down for firewood. In the background you could see the Ottawa River and the Parliament buildings on the other side. He seemed to be contemplating the outcome of the day. Breaking his train of thought I asked if I could take a photo of him. I had no idea who he was and that he was on a hunger strike. He introduced himself and openly offered to share his story. Robinson stated he and other Elders, Chiefs and leaders wanted to meet with the Governor General as nation to nation and not as a delegation. He said the Crown recognized our Treaty rights in 1910 and they need to honor those treaties, we are a nation of people who deserve more in every aspect of all our lives.

 When asked if the hunger strike has clouded his thinking, Robinson stated, “My thinking has never been sharper, it has brought clarity to my thoughts. We will see what the outcome is today. They need to respect our demands and if they do not, we will forge ahead.”

 He walked as one of the leaders in the front line of March, with two men offering physical support by wrapping their arms around his. During the march from Victoria Island to Parliament Hill he had to stop due to lack of energy and when he did stop, the entire line of protesters stopped as well. He was given water to drink and more than once he had to drop to one knee to rest. Women singers were called upon to offer their support in the form of spiritual songs. This seemed to rally him and he continued his march to the steps of the Prime Minister’s office. Once there, he stood on the steps and gave a strong and clear message that the First Nations people will be heard and if they won’t listen to us today, we will continue until our message is heard and the respect we deserve is given.

 Living on water and tea alone, he appeared weak in physical strength, but was strong in spirit. Responding back when a song was heard or a message was spoken. Robinson said he is hopeful, he sees strength in our youth and mentioned how quickly our youth can organize and come together for such a good cause. Robinson is still on Victoria Island as this goes to print, along with Chief Spence who continues her fast.