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Attawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence to End Hunger Strike Tonight after 44 Days

Levi Rickert, editor-in-chief in Native Challenges. Discussion »

VICTORIA ISLAND, OTTAWA, CANADA – Attawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence will end her 44 day hunger strike she began on December 11, 2012 sources on Victoria Island confirmed today. Chief Spence has lived on Victoria Island since beginning her the hunger strike.

Attawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence on Day 1

Ray Robinson, who has been on the hunger strike as well, though he began is strike two days later than did Chief Spence, will end his hunger strike as well.

Chief Spence had vowed to continue her hunger strike until there was a meeting between all leaders of the First Nations, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Governor General David Johnston.

In recent days, there has been strong pressure on Chief Spence to end her hunger strike. APTN National News in Canada reported late today that a delegation of band councilors from the Attawapiskat was expected to hand-deliver a letter to Chief Spence to end her hunger strike or face removal as their chief. This has not been confirmed by the Native News Network.

“They are coming in tonight,”

said a source close to Chief Spence told APTN National News.

“Then it will end.”

This posting Attawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence facebook page:

"Well, it's official people. Chief Spence and Raymond Robinson are satisfied with the Declaration of Commitment signed by the Leadership. They have been endorsed to carry on the work she has started. It is a bittersweet ending to her hunger strike – which will end tonight. 44 days without food is a long time. Our Ogitchita Kwe gets to go home now to continue her journey in the physical world. Today, I am sad, but very relieved she will walk out of here alive. I support and honour her decision. Thank you everyone for your continued prayers and love."
Megwetch.

posted January 23, 2013 5:40 pm est