UPDATED February 25th, 2020
The following, are articles that I have archived for your viewing. I no longer have an interest in this site being here to educate people on the Indian industry in Canada. As I've stated before, this topic was never one that was of particular interest to me in the first place. If not for some pretty benign comments I made on a public forum 10 years ago, I'd never have been forced to make this site in the first place.
The entire reason for this site back in 2013, was because of the ridiculous articles written about me, by the liberal media party..AKA #FakeNews When you get into politics, be prepared for being smeared and utter nonsense to be said about you. The lies and crap is just staggering! The death threats..good grief! Some people really need to get over themselves!
Anyway, since I'm all about transparency, I'll leave these here for the foreseeable future.
I'm not going to beat around the bush here. I strongly believe in equality. Equality for all citizens, is a constitutional right in Canada. It's part of our Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and rightly so!
Where I have a problem, is when rights or special privilege is given to one group, that another group doesn't also enjoy. I know that it isn't politically correct to discuss native issues, and certainly isn't politically correct to question where you tax dollars are going, where native funding is concerned. But having said that, I don't aspire to be politically correct. At least, not to the degree that I'm afraid to question the status quo. I have every right to question where my tax dollars go, as do you! When did political correctness become so suffocating, that you no longer have the right to disagree or have your own opinion? How will we ever address this issue if everyone is too afraid to talk about it? Who will speak for the grassroots native?
Native Funding Links
http://www.fraserinstitute.org/publicationdisplay.aspx?id=20707&terms=native
http://www.fraserinstitute.org/uploadedFiles/fraser-ca/Content/research-news/research/publications/Aboriginal-spending-2013.pdf.pdf
http://blogs.theprovince.com/2013/12/12/mark-milke-taxpayers-are-being-generous-to-first-nations/
http://www.torontosun.com/2013/12/10/taxpayers-arent-shortchanging-aboriginal-communities-fraser-institute
https://ca.news.yahoo.com/what-the-transparency-act-reveals-about-the-pay-of-aboriginal-politicians-164320861.html
This next article came out on September 11, 2014 and really hits home. Please have a read.
http://www.calgaryherald.com/touch/opinion/columnists/Martinuk+Audit+reveals+many+First+Nations/10195873/story.html?rel
Transparency Act Appreciated By Grassroots Natives
Here are ones on native funding which are a big eye opener, as if the reports on chief's salaries didn't already open your eyes a bit.
Here's the latest news just out October 31st, 2014. I'm not sure what's more disturbing. The fact that this Chief and council (family) thinks their wages are justified or the fact that band members have gone without water and electricity while their leaders took money earmarked for the band, and feel completely justified in doing it. Here's a quote "I'm not embarrassed by what we're doing" Well sir, you should be! Click here for the full story. Shuswap Nation courtesy of the Vancouver Sun. Band members are justifiably upset "We had no idea. We are absolutely disgusted" and Aboriginal Affairs Minister Bernard Valcourt's office had this to say "Our government expects First Nation band councils to use taxpayer dollars responsibly and for the benefit of all community members"
Squamish band fires 2 over missing $1.5M from emergency fund to help band members in time of need.
https://ca.news.yahoo.com/what-the-transparency-act-reveals-about-the-pay-of-aboriginal-politicians-164320861.html
More money missing. Who's paying attention..anyone? http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/squamish-nation-officials-lose-authority-over-finances-after-investigation-1.2805719
Education Funding
What about native education funding? We keep getting told that natives aren't getting fair funding. Well, seems that may not be true either. Have a look...
http://www.castanet.net/news/BC/120575/Report-First-Nation-schools-failing#.U-PtDcOwlj4.face
Delusions of Grandeur
Rantings of lunacy abound in this article, please have a read, familiarize yourself with how ridiculous the nonsense has become. "50% of the profit on every rock, tree and natural resource, has gone into our trust funds since the invaders arrived empty handed on our shores. The crown corporation of Canada has carried out genocide and placed us in prisoner of war camps called reserves while stealing all our possessions." and this "Each community send an invoice to the Corporation of Canada for your portion of the $950 trillion Indian Trust Fund, “Payable in gold bullion only"
I have heard the rantings of this mythical trust fund, but last I heard, it was worth $2 trillion, give or take, about 2 years ago. I don't know where the math comes in or the interest or what, but that's a pretty hefty increase in investment in 2 years time! Good God, I'm getting about a 1/2% interest on my money at the bank..lol
If we look at the first quoted part of the article, you will see that "we arrived empty handed" to a country where Indians lived in teepee's and as far as I recall in school, there were no natives digging oil wells or otherwise tapping into natural resources except whatever they found on the ground. I wonder where that technology came from..you know, to extract resources and build dams for power and medical technologies, building, farming, horses..etc. etc. etc..hmmm..wonder who brought that?? So, they've been enjoying 50% of everything "settlers" brought to the table..hmmm. Sounds like their admitting to getting an equal share of the resource revenue.
http://mohawknationnews.com/blog/2014/05/28/one-more-winter/
More fanciful thinking..it's bloody epidemic! http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/straighttalk/archives/2014/06/20140630-085433.html
Two Tier Criminal Code
Yes, sadly Canada does have a two tier criminal code. I will post a link shortly (you can also Google it) I came across this article a couple days ago. I was pretty shocked when i read it, but then i reminded myself that it's from the CBC, so..that sums it up right there! The disturbing part, is that the author, doesn't think the two tier criminal code goes far enough. It's not enough that natives enjoy special laws and rights than no one else enjoys, but that it should be even more segregated and special. For the record, I am against race based laws. Not only are they racist, they are discriminatory, they degrade racial relations and they treat natives, as if they are intellectually inferior. I say that, not because I agree with that, rather, I disagree with that..completely! The law is saying, that because they, the natives, don't have the mental capacity, to know what they are doing is wrong, in modern society, that they need "special" considerations with sentencing. This article, absolutely proves that to be a correct assertion..without a doubt! Click here for the article
Here's a quote from the article..PS..thank you for finally admitting natives enjoy two tier justice :)
"After his younger brothers had been apprehended by the state and reportedly feeling a responsibility to be able to provide for them, 21-year-old Edward Snowshoe attempted to rob a taxi driver in Inuvik. He pleaded guilty, the sentencing judge considered his aboriginal background as required by the law, and Snowshoe was incarcerated in a federal institution.
After the first of several suicide attempts, Snowshoe was transferred to the minimum security O-Chi-Chak-Ko-Sipi Healing Lodge, operated by the Cree community of Crane River in Northern Manitoba. Here Snowshoe was offered “culturally appropriate” programming for aboriginal offenders. He did not participate in any of it. He escaped and fled on day 23, eventually being sent back to maximum security. As we know, Snowshoe later took his own life just months shy of his release."
So, he was given a lesser sentence, based on his race. He was sent to a native run facility, given the opportunity to have native healing, but that wasn't enough. It's Canada's fault that this human being took his life. Not the life choices "he" made, but the actions of colonization 300 years ago?
"Rather than reducing indigenous people to aboriginal and wondering why we continue to be disproportionately represented in Canada’s justice system, what would it mean for all of us to take the multiple and diverse legal systems of indigenous peoples seriously?
In an alternate world, where Gwich’in laws were taken seriously on Gwich’in land, would Edward Snowshoe be alive? Would his brothers have been apprehended by the state? Would he have been tortured for his actions?"
So, let me get this straight. We, Canada, the legal system, the two tiered special legal system, should not only take into account your race, but the geography/location of your tribe? Each tribe should be given different/special laws?? There are how many tribes in Canada 70+???? So 70+ different two tier criminal codes..really?? Good God, can you just imagine the backlog in the courts?! An "alternate world" indeed!
Breaking News Stories
Here's a good article just out (April 14, 2015) click here Here's an even better letter to the Ottawa Sun Dear Mr. Gunter,
Very good column!
But you neglect or are unwilling to go the next logical step and say that “reform” is only possible if the Constitution is amended by deleting section 35 from it.
Section 35 entrenches the “separate but equal”, gold-plated (for the Indian industry) apartheid-like legal system we have relating to Indians.
Journalists must break free of their self-censorship and ask: “If Nelson Mandela’s “one set of laws for all races” ideal and goal was appropriate for South Africa (Stephen Harper, Sean Atleo, and others in our Canadian establishment all went to his funeral) then why is it not the appropriate, desirable and ideal goal for Canada?”
Until our elites, including our media elites, start asking this question, the vast majority of vulnerable, powerless, Indian men, women, boys and girls will continue to be condemned to disproportionate social and economic disadvantages.
The blame does not lie with Indian chiefs and their coteries. Why wouldn’t they want to keep the status quo going? It’s human nature. You are right there.
The blame lies with the provincial and federal governments, and with the Supreme Court ( as you point out), for enabling this tragedy to continue and thrive.
Sincerely,
Peter Best
Lawyer
Sudbury
P.S. I greatly expand on your column in my online essay atwww.nodifference.ca
Horrific news just out (Feb 17th 2015). Two small children parish in a house fire on a Saskatchewan reserve. While the blame game is in full swing, lets not forget that 2 children paid with their lives! That's beyond tragic, no matter what side of the fence you sit on! What's equally tragic, is that the blame for the tragedy is shifted to the fire department who didn't go on the call. They were told by the RCMP that the building was fully engulfed and the children already long dead by the time the 911 call was even made. What's sadder, if it could get sadder, is that the band has their own fire truck and is provided, handsomely, with substantial funding for their fire needs. Why wasn't it used, and why is it PM Harper's fault..yet again? Here's a link to a blog I found today click here and one of many articles here and here. Here's a quote from the Loon Lake fire chief "The Loon Lake fire chief says he’s doubtful a response from his crew would have changed the outcome of Tuesday’s deadly fire.“I think the biggest problem is we have a politician that stands up in the house like she did yesterday and says give them more money, that’s fine give them all the money in the world but if it doesn’t go to the right places what good is it,” said Heon.
#ShutDownCanada Day of violence scheduled for Feb 13th, 2015
Here's something scary! The organizers of this group, are advocating fire bombings, rail sabotage and violence against the RCMP and citizens. This IS NOT the peaceful protest they are touting. Please read this article and contact your local police. Get on Twitter and condem this violence..this race based hate can not be tolerated! Someone is going to get killed!
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.genuinewitty.com%2F2015%2F01%2F03%2Fwill-2015-bring-doug-blands-indigenous-uprising-to-a-theatre-of-civil-war-near-you-feat-dan-wallace-harsha-walia%2F&h=XAQEp69FW
One of their organizers (Dan Wallace), bragging about this "One incident he doesn’t mention on his list is when he openly encouraged protesters to engage in “violence against the police” at Vancouver’s 2014 May Day parade."
More bragging
"Dan Wallace puts great effort into demonizing (and therefore weakening the potential response) of the security services whose job it is to make sure the public is safe from people who use violence. He’s gotten away for this for so long he now feels he can commit crimes with impunity."
Bragging about his connection to DAVID SUZUKI family
"Wallace has been front-and-centre at every major Vancouver area protest this past year and appears to have significant support (remember, he’s besties with David Suzuki’s grandson). He’s already confirmed events in Vancouver, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Victoria, Thunder Bay, and San Francisco (coincidentally where much of the NGO money comes"
Radio Interview with MacLeans journalist Jan 25th, 2015
Have a listen to the writer from MacLeans magazine. She's asked some not so tough questions pertaining to her article. It's refreshing to see (hear) someone within the media, take this racism claim head on. I think that not only was this sloppy journalism, but it was highly inflammatory and irresponsible! The entire story has been debunked by this radio host. To race bait not only hurts Winnipegers, but it hurts all Canadians! MacLeans has lowered themselves to rag status, right there beside the National Enquirer and their stories on alien abduction. Good job! *sigh* Click the following link to hear the interview. http://www.92citifm.ca/2015/01/25/wheeler-vs-macleans-magazine/
MacLeans magazine hits hard with it's race baiting article. Winnipeg is being named Canada's most racist city. Here's a look at debunking their claims (part #1)
http://youtu.be/34ASUgwnH4w
Here's (part #2)
http://youtu.be/BS7lpvUErOQ
Have you heard of the Human Rights Museum in Manitoba? Well, the name couldn't possibly be more ironic. They have recently come out with a novel way to charge an entrance fee. It's based on race..I kid you NOT! If you are of any aboriginal descent, you get in for free, but the taxpayers who footed the $351M bill, can all pay up. Here a link to the story.
http://news.nationalpost.com/2015/01/19/colin-craig-welcome-to-the-human-rights-museum-what-race-are-you/
Heres another good article. It shows a very serious dysfunction where this "human rights" museum is concerned, have a read. http://www.winnipegsun.com/2014/09/15/taxpayers-rights-violated-by-expanding-museum-costs-brodbeck
This sad and horrible news story just in Dec 21,2014
http://globalnews.ca/news/1738662/young-girl-with-traumatic-injuries-airlifted-to-edmonton-hospital/
When will the enablers just come to terms with the culture on these reserves and deal with it. It's nearing epidemic proportions. How many have to die before real change is made. Heartbreaking!
A spot on article! Have a read, from October 19,2013 but always relevant to the current conversation, because sadly, the conversation never changes! Maybe they should look "with in" for change. http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/10/19/rex-murphy-a-rude-dismissal-of-canadas-generosity/
FYI, here's an article about me and the "press conference"..this journalist gets it..how did so many others not?
http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/graham-templeton/rage-forum-posts-bc-election_b_3242985.html?utm_hp_ref=tw
You decide if you think this is acceptable dialogue http://news.ca.msn.com/top-stories/first-nations-relations-with-ottawa-tested-over-economic-shutdown-threat#scpshrtu
And an article that sounds a little threatening http://www.cbc.ca/news/aboriginal/chiefs-vow-to-do-whatever-it-takes-to-scrap-aboriginal-education-bill-1.2624438
Here is an article about the residential schools. I welcome this persons story, because it shows that not all of what took place in those schools was bad. I am in no way trying to take away from what clearly was wrong, but rather, showing that it wasn't every native child's reality. Here's a quote from the article
"Because if, say, 150,000 people attended a residential school, not every single one of them was sexually or physically abused. To try to claim that would be outlandish and no one would buy it. Instead, let the commission hear from those for whom the residential school experience might have been a godsend, or at the least, a steppingstone to a more empowered future.
Because those kinds of stories happened too. They happened to my mother and others like her. To be brave and go against the flow and tell Canada that for some native people, the residential school experience was not exclusively a horror show is to tell Canada that we have grown as nations of people, that we recognize that truth means a whole vision and not just a selective memory."
Here is the full article http://www.canada.com/story.html?id=492e75a9-803b-48af-9472-1f638e78f8a6
Another natives story on his residential school experience http://www.nnsl.com/frames/newspapers/2010-11/nov15_10bk.html
How do we help the grassroots native who needs help? How do we ensure their voice is heard? Here's a quote from the article that hits the nail right smack on the head “Fear, retaliation are the very reasons why no one will stand up today,” Iahtail said. “For people who actually stand up there is grave retaliation",
http://www.bluelikeyou.com/2011/12/14/one-brave-native-woman/
http://www.ctvnews.ca/attawapiskat-resident-reveals-history-of-abuse-1.740028#ixzz3FOhOn63e
Here is the RCMP Missing and murdered native women report, which may sound different from what you've heard. As a non-native, I am approximately 84% more likely to be murdered and nearly 90% more likely to go missing.
http://news.nationalpost.com/2014/05/16/rcmp-report-on-missing-and-murdered-aboriginal-women-says-native-women-more-prone-to-violent-death/
For comparison, here is another link on province by province missing people.
http://www.canadasmissing.ca/pubs/fac-ren-2011-eng.htm
Here are more links to interesting articles and reports, that came out mostly this past year.
http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2014/06/28/saturday-letters-court-confirms-that-most-canadians-are-second-class-citizens/
http://www.torontosun.com/2014/05/17/first-nations-myths-vs-reality#.U4ZyKw3uRj4.twitter
http://m.theglobeandmail.com/globe-debate/too-many-first-nations-people-live-in-a-dream-palace/article6929035/?service=mobile&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_medium=Referrer:+Social+Network+/+Media&utm_campaign=Shared+Web+Article+Links
http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2014/06/27/andrew-coyne-after-aboriginal-land-title-ruling-why-not-protect-property-rights-of-all-canadians/
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-debate/posturing-is-the-only-reason-for-an-inquiry/article20211559/
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-debate/you-cant-just-denounce-ottawa/article20259728/
Racism On The Reserve
These next two links concern me quite a bit. I'm concerned that racism plagues the native communities to such a degree, that the civil rights of people are being violated. The charter of rights and freedoms is supposed to protect against this kind of racism and bullying. Who's protecting these people and their right to not be discriminated upon, because of who their partner is? Is it like painting a scarlet letter on their door?
http://news.nationalpost.com/2014/09/18/quebec-mohawk-reserve-looks-to-enforce-law-requiring-anyone-living-with-a-non-native-to-move/
http://www.cbc.ca/news/aboriginal/looking-for-first-nations-love-indigenous-dating-life-complex-1.2615016
Land Rights
Here is a well written article on protecting land rights of all citizens. http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2014/06/27/andrew-coyne-after-aboriginal-land-title-ruling-why-not-protect-property-rights-of-all-canadians/
The next link is pretty eye opening to anyone who thinks their city or town isn't headed for some potentially serious issues. Here's a quote from the Belcarra mayor
"First Nations expect municipalities to provide services; they will take water, sewer and fire protection but won’t pay for libraries and recreation. Those are bones of contention now and this is only going to exacerbate it." & "“If they bought a large block in middle of Surrey and it’s a tax-free zone, imagine the impact on the surrounding businesses,”
http://www.vancouversun.com/business/Proposal+allow+First+Nations+create+satellite+reserves+alarms/9018726/story.html
It's interesting to note, that a candidate in Thunder Bay Ontario said the same thing, and she was called a racist for pointing out the disparage. It's equally interesting to note, that I haven't noticed the same outcry of racism for this mayors comments. It isn't racist to question where your tax dollars are going, anymore than it's racist to point out a disparage. What is racist, Is not giving the same considerations and rights to everyone.
I'm not suggesting something outlandish here, I'm suggesting that everyone be treated equally...nothing more, nothing less!
Supreme Court Ruling
The ruling on native title sure confused, an already confused issue. Natives across Canada, rejoiced at this ruling. They all figure it will give them Canada back..I'm guessing! The Supreme Court was VERY specific in their ruling, and they made it VERY clear, that it wouldn't effect most ongoing claims. Why? Because this ruling was based on some VERY specific issues. Specific to this particular band, issues that other bands would not be able to claim. None the less, the drumming and smudging parties are in full swing. This article makes it easy to understand, even for the less literate. If you don't like Sun News, there are other articles in mainstream media, take your pick. The facts remain the same!
http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/politics/archives/2014/06/20140626-095748.html
MORE TO COME!
I will be adding more content as it becomes available. This will always be a work in progress :)
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MORE TO COME!
The following, are articles that I have archived for your viewing. I no longer have an interest in this site being here to educate people on the Indian industry in Canada. As I've stated before, this topic was never one that was of particular interest to me in the first place. If not for some pretty benign comments I made on a public forum 10 years ago, I'd never have been forced to make this site in the first place.
The entire reason for this site back in 2013, was because of the ridiculous articles written about me, by the liberal media party..AKA #FakeNews When you get into politics, be prepared for being smeared and utter nonsense to be said about you. The lies and crap is just staggering! The death threats..good grief! Some people really need to get over themselves!
Anyway, since I'm all about transparency, I'll leave these here for the foreseeable future.
I'm not going to beat around the bush here. I strongly believe in equality. Equality for all citizens, is a constitutional right in Canada. It's part of our Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and rightly so!
Where I have a problem, is when rights or special privilege is given to one group, that another group doesn't also enjoy. I know that it isn't politically correct to discuss native issues, and certainly isn't politically correct to question where you tax dollars are going, where native funding is concerned. But having said that, I don't aspire to be politically correct. At least, not to the degree that I'm afraid to question the status quo. I have every right to question where my tax dollars go, as do you! When did political correctness become so suffocating, that you no longer have the right to disagree or have your own opinion? How will we ever address this issue if everyone is too afraid to talk about it? Who will speak for the grassroots native?
Native Funding Links
http://www.fraserinstitute.org/publicationdisplay.aspx?id=20707&terms=native
http://www.fraserinstitute.org/uploadedFiles/fraser-ca/Content/research-news/research/publications/Aboriginal-spending-2013.pdf.pdf
http://blogs.theprovince.com/2013/12/12/mark-milke-taxpayers-are-being-generous-to-first-nations/
http://www.torontosun.com/2013/12/10/taxpayers-arent-shortchanging-aboriginal-communities-fraser-institute
https://ca.news.yahoo.com/what-the-transparency-act-reveals-about-the-pay-of-aboriginal-politicians-164320861.html
This next article came out on September 11, 2014 and really hits home. Please have a read.
http://www.calgaryherald.com/touch/opinion/columnists/Martinuk+Audit+reveals+many+First+Nations/10195873/story.html?rel
Transparency Act Appreciated By Grassroots Natives
Here are ones on native funding which are a big eye opener, as if the reports on chief's salaries didn't already open your eyes a bit.
Here's the latest news just out October 31st, 2014. I'm not sure what's more disturbing. The fact that this Chief and council (family) thinks their wages are justified or the fact that band members have gone without water and electricity while their leaders took money earmarked for the band, and feel completely justified in doing it. Here's a quote "I'm not embarrassed by what we're doing" Well sir, you should be! Click here for the full story. Shuswap Nation courtesy of the Vancouver Sun. Band members are justifiably upset "We had no idea. We are absolutely disgusted" and Aboriginal Affairs Minister Bernard Valcourt's office had this to say "Our government expects First Nation band councils to use taxpayer dollars responsibly and for the benefit of all community members"
Squamish band fires 2 over missing $1.5M from emergency fund to help band members in time of need.
https://ca.news.yahoo.com/what-the-transparency-act-reveals-about-the-pay-of-aboriginal-politicians-164320861.html
More money missing. Who's paying attention..anyone? http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/squamish-nation-officials-lose-authority-over-finances-after-investigation-1.2805719
Education Funding
What about native education funding? We keep getting told that natives aren't getting fair funding. Well, seems that may not be true either. Have a look...
http://www.castanet.net/news/BC/120575/Report-First-Nation-schools-failing#.U-PtDcOwlj4.face
Delusions of Grandeur
Rantings of lunacy abound in this article, please have a read, familiarize yourself with how ridiculous the nonsense has become. "50% of the profit on every rock, tree and natural resource, has gone into our trust funds since the invaders arrived empty handed on our shores. The crown corporation of Canada has carried out genocide and placed us in prisoner of war camps called reserves while stealing all our possessions." and this "Each community send an invoice to the Corporation of Canada for your portion of the $950 trillion Indian Trust Fund, “Payable in gold bullion only"
I have heard the rantings of this mythical trust fund, but last I heard, it was worth $2 trillion, give or take, about 2 years ago. I don't know where the math comes in or the interest or what, but that's a pretty hefty increase in investment in 2 years time! Good God, I'm getting about a 1/2% interest on my money at the bank..lol
If we look at the first quoted part of the article, you will see that "we arrived empty handed" to a country where Indians lived in teepee's and as far as I recall in school, there were no natives digging oil wells or otherwise tapping into natural resources except whatever they found on the ground. I wonder where that technology came from..you know, to extract resources and build dams for power and medical technologies, building, farming, horses..etc. etc. etc..hmmm..wonder who brought that?? So, they've been enjoying 50% of everything "settlers" brought to the table..hmmm. Sounds like their admitting to getting an equal share of the resource revenue.
http://mohawknationnews.com/blog/2014/05/28/one-more-winter/
More fanciful thinking..it's bloody epidemic! http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/straighttalk/archives/2014/06/20140630-085433.html
Two Tier Criminal Code
Yes, sadly Canada does have a two tier criminal code. I will post a link shortly (you can also Google it) I came across this article a couple days ago. I was pretty shocked when i read it, but then i reminded myself that it's from the CBC, so..that sums it up right there! The disturbing part, is that the author, doesn't think the two tier criminal code goes far enough. It's not enough that natives enjoy special laws and rights than no one else enjoys, but that it should be even more segregated and special. For the record, I am against race based laws. Not only are they racist, they are discriminatory, they degrade racial relations and they treat natives, as if they are intellectually inferior. I say that, not because I agree with that, rather, I disagree with that..completely! The law is saying, that because they, the natives, don't have the mental capacity, to know what they are doing is wrong, in modern society, that they need "special" considerations with sentencing. This article, absolutely proves that to be a correct assertion..without a doubt! Click here for the article
Here's a quote from the article..PS..thank you for finally admitting natives enjoy two tier justice :)
"After his younger brothers had been apprehended by the state and reportedly feeling a responsibility to be able to provide for them, 21-year-old Edward Snowshoe attempted to rob a taxi driver in Inuvik. He pleaded guilty, the sentencing judge considered his aboriginal background as required by the law, and Snowshoe was incarcerated in a federal institution.
After the first of several suicide attempts, Snowshoe was transferred to the minimum security O-Chi-Chak-Ko-Sipi Healing Lodge, operated by the Cree community of Crane River in Northern Manitoba. Here Snowshoe was offered “culturally appropriate” programming for aboriginal offenders. He did not participate in any of it. He escaped and fled on day 23, eventually being sent back to maximum security. As we know, Snowshoe later took his own life just months shy of his release."
So, he was given a lesser sentence, based on his race. He was sent to a native run facility, given the opportunity to have native healing, but that wasn't enough. It's Canada's fault that this human being took his life. Not the life choices "he" made, but the actions of colonization 300 years ago?
"Rather than reducing indigenous people to aboriginal and wondering why we continue to be disproportionately represented in Canada’s justice system, what would it mean for all of us to take the multiple and diverse legal systems of indigenous peoples seriously?
In an alternate world, where Gwich’in laws were taken seriously on Gwich’in land, would Edward Snowshoe be alive? Would his brothers have been apprehended by the state? Would he have been tortured for his actions?"
So, let me get this straight. We, Canada, the legal system, the two tiered special legal system, should not only take into account your race, but the geography/location of your tribe? Each tribe should be given different/special laws?? There are how many tribes in Canada 70+???? So 70+ different two tier criminal codes..really?? Good God, can you just imagine the backlog in the courts?! An "alternate world" indeed!
Breaking News Stories
Here's a good article just out (April 14, 2015) click here Here's an even better letter to the Ottawa Sun Dear Mr. Gunter,
Very good column!
But you neglect or are unwilling to go the next logical step and say that “reform” is only possible if the Constitution is amended by deleting section 35 from it.
Section 35 entrenches the “separate but equal”, gold-plated (for the Indian industry) apartheid-like legal system we have relating to Indians.
Journalists must break free of their self-censorship and ask: “If Nelson Mandela’s “one set of laws for all races” ideal and goal was appropriate for South Africa (Stephen Harper, Sean Atleo, and others in our Canadian establishment all went to his funeral) then why is it not the appropriate, desirable and ideal goal for Canada?”
Until our elites, including our media elites, start asking this question, the vast majority of vulnerable, powerless, Indian men, women, boys and girls will continue to be condemned to disproportionate social and economic disadvantages.
The blame does not lie with Indian chiefs and their coteries. Why wouldn’t they want to keep the status quo going? It’s human nature. You are right there.
The blame lies with the provincial and federal governments, and with the Supreme Court ( as you point out), for enabling this tragedy to continue and thrive.
Sincerely,
Peter Best
Lawyer
Sudbury
P.S. I greatly expand on your column in my online essay atwww.nodifference.ca
Horrific news just out (Feb 17th 2015). Two small children parish in a house fire on a Saskatchewan reserve. While the blame game is in full swing, lets not forget that 2 children paid with their lives! That's beyond tragic, no matter what side of the fence you sit on! What's equally tragic, is that the blame for the tragedy is shifted to the fire department who didn't go on the call. They were told by the RCMP that the building was fully engulfed and the children already long dead by the time the 911 call was even made. What's sadder, if it could get sadder, is that the band has their own fire truck and is provided, handsomely, with substantial funding for their fire needs. Why wasn't it used, and why is it PM Harper's fault..yet again? Here's a link to a blog I found today click here and one of many articles here and here. Here's a quote from the Loon Lake fire chief "The Loon Lake fire chief says he’s doubtful a response from his crew would have changed the outcome of Tuesday’s deadly fire.“I think the biggest problem is we have a politician that stands up in the house like she did yesterday and says give them more money, that’s fine give them all the money in the world but if it doesn’t go to the right places what good is it,” said Heon.
#ShutDownCanada Day of violence scheduled for Feb 13th, 2015
Here's something scary! The organizers of this group, are advocating fire bombings, rail sabotage and violence against the RCMP and citizens. This IS NOT the peaceful protest they are touting. Please read this article and contact your local police. Get on Twitter and condem this violence..this race based hate can not be tolerated! Someone is going to get killed!
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.genuinewitty.com%2F2015%2F01%2F03%2Fwill-2015-bring-doug-blands-indigenous-uprising-to-a-theatre-of-civil-war-near-you-feat-dan-wallace-harsha-walia%2F&h=XAQEp69FW
One of their organizers (Dan Wallace), bragging about this "One incident he doesn’t mention on his list is when he openly encouraged protesters to engage in “violence against the police” at Vancouver’s 2014 May Day parade."
More bragging
"Dan Wallace puts great effort into demonizing (and therefore weakening the potential response) of the security services whose job it is to make sure the public is safe from people who use violence. He’s gotten away for this for so long he now feels he can commit crimes with impunity."
Bragging about his connection to DAVID SUZUKI family
"Wallace has been front-and-centre at every major Vancouver area protest this past year and appears to have significant support (remember, he’s besties with David Suzuki’s grandson). He’s already confirmed events in Vancouver, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Victoria, Thunder Bay, and San Francisco (coincidentally where much of the NGO money comes"
Radio Interview with MacLeans journalist Jan 25th, 2015
Have a listen to the writer from MacLeans magazine. She's asked some not so tough questions pertaining to her article. It's refreshing to see (hear) someone within the media, take this racism claim head on. I think that not only was this sloppy journalism, but it was highly inflammatory and irresponsible! The entire story has been debunked by this radio host. To race bait not only hurts Winnipegers, but it hurts all Canadians! MacLeans has lowered themselves to rag status, right there beside the National Enquirer and their stories on alien abduction. Good job! *sigh* Click the following link to hear the interview. http://www.92citifm.ca/2015/01/25/wheeler-vs-macleans-magazine/
MacLeans magazine hits hard with it's race baiting article. Winnipeg is being named Canada's most racist city. Here's a look at debunking their claims (part #1)
http://youtu.be/34ASUgwnH4w
Here's (part #2)
http://youtu.be/BS7lpvUErOQ
Have you heard of the Human Rights Museum in Manitoba? Well, the name couldn't possibly be more ironic. They have recently come out with a novel way to charge an entrance fee. It's based on race..I kid you NOT! If you are of any aboriginal descent, you get in for free, but the taxpayers who footed the $351M bill, can all pay up. Here a link to the story.
http://news.nationalpost.com/2015/01/19/colin-craig-welcome-to-the-human-rights-museum-what-race-are-you/
Heres another good article. It shows a very serious dysfunction where this "human rights" museum is concerned, have a read. http://www.winnipegsun.com/2014/09/15/taxpayers-rights-violated-by-expanding-museum-costs-brodbeck
This sad and horrible news story just in Dec 21,2014
http://globalnews.ca/news/1738662/young-girl-with-traumatic-injuries-airlifted-to-edmonton-hospital/
When will the enablers just come to terms with the culture on these reserves and deal with it. It's nearing epidemic proportions. How many have to die before real change is made. Heartbreaking!
A spot on article! Have a read, from October 19,2013 but always relevant to the current conversation, because sadly, the conversation never changes! Maybe they should look "with in" for change. http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/10/19/rex-murphy-a-rude-dismissal-of-canadas-generosity/
FYI, here's an article about me and the "press conference"..this journalist gets it..how did so many others not?
http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/graham-templeton/rage-forum-posts-bc-election_b_3242985.html?utm_hp_ref=tw
You decide if you think this is acceptable dialogue http://news.ca.msn.com/top-stories/first-nations-relations-with-ottawa-tested-over-economic-shutdown-threat#scpshrtu
And an article that sounds a little threatening http://www.cbc.ca/news/aboriginal/chiefs-vow-to-do-whatever-it-takes-to-scrap-aboriginal-education-bill-1.2624438
Here is an article about the residential schools. I welcome this persons story, because it shows that not all of what took place in those schools was bad. I am in no way trying to take away from what clearly was wrong, but rather, showing that it wasn't every native child's reality. Here's a quote from the article
"Because if, say, 150,000 people attended a residential school, not every single one of them was sexually or physically abused. To try to claim that would be outlandish and no one would buy it. Instead, let the commission hear from those for whom the residential school experience might have been a godsend, or at the least, a steppingstone to a more empowered future.
Because those kinds of stories happened too. They happened to my mother and others like her. To be brave and go against the flow and tell Canada that for some native people, the residential school experience was not exclusively a horror show is to tell Canada that we have grown as nations of people, that we recognize that truth means a whole vision and not just a selective memory."
Here is the full article http://www.canada.com/story.html?id=492e75a9-803b-48af-9472-1f638e78f8a6
Another natives story on his residential school experience http://www.nnsl.com/frames/newspapers/2010-11/nov15_10bk.html
How do we help the grassroots native who needs help? How do we ensure their voice is heard? Here's a quote from the article that hits the nail right smack on the head “Fear, retaliation are the very reasons why no one will stand up today,” Iahtail said. “For people who actually stand up there is grave retaliation",
http://www.bluelikeyou.com/2011/12/14/one-brave-native-woman/
http://www.ctvnews.ca/attawapiskat-resident-reveals-history-of-abuse-1.740028#ixzz3FOhOn63e
Here is the RCMP Missing and murdered native women report, which may sound different from what you've heard. As a non-native, I am approximately 84% more likely to be murdered and nearly 90% more likely to go missing.
http://news.nationalpost.com/2014/05/16/rcmp-report-on-missing-and-murdered-aboriginal-women-says-native-women-more-prone-to-violent-death/
For comparison, here is another link on province by province missing people.
http://www.canadasmissing.ca/pubs/fac-ren-2011-eng.htm
Here are more links to interesting articles and reports, that came out mostly this past year.
http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2014/06/28/saturday-letters-court-confirms-that-most-canadians-are-second-class-citizens/
http://www.torontosun.com/2014/05/17/first-nations-myths-vs-reality#.U4ZyKw3uRj4.twitter
http://m.theglobeandmail.com/globe-debate/too-many-first-nations-people-live-in-a-dream-palace/article6929035/?service=mobile&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_medium=Referrer:+Social+Network+/+Media&utm_campaign=Shared+Web+Article+Links
http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2014/06/27/andrew-coyne-after-aboriginal-land-title-ruling-why-not-protect-property-rights-of-all-canadians/
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-debate/posturing-is-the-only-reason-for-an-inquiry/article20211559/
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-debate/you-cant-just-denounce-ottawa/article20259728/
Racism On The Reserve
These next two links concern me quite a bit. I'm concerned that racism plagues the native communities to such a degree, that the civil rights of people are being violated. The charter of rights and freedoms is supposed to protect against this kind of racism and bullying. Who's protecting these people and their right to not be discriminated upon, because of who their partner is? Is it like painting a scarlet letter on their door?
http://news.nationalpost.com/2014/09/18/quebec-mohawk-reserve-looks-to-enforce-law-requiring-anyone-living-with-a-non-native-to-move/
http://www.cbc.ca/news/aboriginal/looking-for-first-nations-love-indigenous-dating-life-complex-1.2615016
Land Rights
Here is a well written article on protecting land rights of all citizens. http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2014/06/27/andrew-coyne-after-aboriginal-land-title-ruling-why-not-protect-property-rights-of-all-canadians/
The next link is pretty eye opening to anyone who thinks their city or town isn't headed for some potentially serious issues. Here's a quote from the Belcarra mayor
"First Nations expect municipalities to provide services; they will take water, sewer and fire protection but won’t pay for libraries and recreation. Those are bones of contention now and this is only going to exacerbate it." & "“If they bought a large block in middle of Surrey and it’s a tax-free zone, imagine the impact on the surrounding businesses,”
http://www.vancouversun.com/business/Proposal+allow+First+Nations+create+satellite+reserves+alarms/9018726/story.html
It's interesting to note, that a candidate in Thunder Bay Ontario said the same thing, and she was called a racist for pointing out the disparage. It's equally interesting to note, that I haven't noticed the same outcry of racism for this mayors comments. It isn't racist to question where your tax dollars are going, anymore than it's racist to point out a disparage. What is racist, Is not giving the same considerations and rights to everyone.
I'm not suggesting something outlandish here, I'm suggesting that everyone be treated equally...nothing more, nothing less!
Supreme Court Ruling
The ruling on native title sure confused, an already confused issue. Natives across Canada, rejoiced at this ruling. They all figure it will give them Canada back..I'm guessing! The Supreme Court was VERY specific in their ruling, and they made it VERY clear, that it wouldn't effect most ongoing claims. Why? Because this ruling was based on some VERY specific issues. Specific to this particular band, issues that other bands would not be able to claim. None the less, the drumming and smudging parties are in full swing. This article makes it easy to understand, even for the less literate. If you don't like Sun News, there are other articles in mainstream media, take your pick. The facts remain the same!
http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/politics/archives/2014/06/20140626-095748.html
MORE TO COME!
I will be adding more content as it becomes available. This will always be a work in progress :)
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MORE TO COME!