National Day of Action in Support of First Nations

On May 29th First Nations are joining with Canadians across Canada to stand together to call upon the government of Canada to work with First Nations to protect their children, invest in their future and respect our responsibility to one another.

The Assembly of First Nations is using the day to call for the dismantling of the Department of Indian Affairs and to set aside the Indian Act. They are also calling on the government to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

"In B.C. the majority of Aboriginal people have been forced to wait generations for justice," said George Heyman, BCGEU president. "There has been little progress for the First Nations people. Like the union movement, Aboriginal communities must sometimes resort to peaceful protest to draw attention to unjust situations."

"The BCGEU, which represents a number of Aboriginal certifications, has supported treaty negotiations and the right of first Nations to self-determination," said Heyman.

Housing for First Nations, safe drinking water, child poverty, education, and health issues remain at levels far below the national average.

BCGEU members are encouraged to join in rallies being held at various locations around the province.

Chilliwack - rally
8:30 am, Chuck Strahl's Constituency Office

Vancouver - rally and march
March begins at 12:00 Noon at the premier's office, Canada Place. Rally at 12:30 pm at the Olympic Countdown Park, Vancouver Art Gallery

Merritt - rally
12:00 Noon, Junction of Highway 5 and 97c

Keremeos - rally
10:00 am - 2:00 pm, Memorial Park

Victoria - rally
12:00 Noon, Legislature

For PDF click here.