Hunger Strike – Day 26

Chief Spence Continues Hunger Strike in Spite of Prime Minister's Announcement

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

VICTORIA ISLAND, ONTARIO – Despite yesterday's announcement that Prime Minister Stephen Harper has agreed to meet with First Nation leaders next Friday in Ottawa, Canada, Attawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence will continue her hunger strike that began December 26.

Chief Theresa Spence will continue her Hunger Strike

Today is Day 26 of her hunger strike.

Chief Spence's Attawapiskat First Nation issued a news release after the statement was released by Prime Minister's Office Friday.

“I will continue my hunger strike and await the outcomes of the meeting. Our Peoples have had a history of prior promises and commitments from the Canadian government with no true tangible results. We look forward to re-establishing and strengthening our Treaty relationship with Canada and the ongoing discussions that will lead to the recognition, implementation and advancement our inherent and treaty rights,”

stated Chief Spence.

Part of the Prime Minister's statement cited the progress he feels has been made with First Nation peoples, but added "there is more that must be done to improve outcomes for First Nations communities across Canada." Chief Spence agreed with this and hopes there is some common ground to work toward as next meeting takes place.

“Our Indigenous Peoples have always based our relationship on the Peace and Friendship Treaties that were entered into with the Crown. We will bring for the spirit and intent of Treaty which is rooted in mutual respect and willingness to share. First Nation Peoples look forward to meaningful change. I ask that our peoples and supporters remain peaceful and united for our common cause,”

concluded Chief Spence.

posted January 5, 2013 9:40 am est