No One Is Illegal-MONTRÉAL

Indigenous Solidarity Organizing from a No Borders Perspective

2009-10-26T13:20:00.003-04:00

Presented by members of No One Is Illegal-Montreal
Part of Indigenous Sovereignty Week-Montreal

Wednesday, October 28, 12pm
at QPIRG Concordia
1500 de Maisonneuve Ouest #204 (métro Guy-Concordia)

Free. Wheelchair accessible. Childcare available on request (514-848-7585, please phone by Tuesday at 9pm).

This workshop will explore the analysis, research and lived experiences that ground a "no one is illegal/no borders" analysis in relation to non-native Indigenous solidarity organizing. In a context of global apartheid, there are very specific challenges for organizing on a shifting terrain of struggle locally that is rooted in the lived reality of those who daily confront oppression. Topics of discussion include:

- colonialism & neo-colonialism;
- decolonization & self-determination;
- the factors of displacement, dislocation & globalization;
- the history of border controls;
- the meaning and building of global apartheid;
- the history of racism in the Canadian state;
- the meanings of "home" and "homeland";
- migrants, settlers and indigenous solidarity

Organizing for social justice in the context of Canada and Quebec means that we need to reckon, honestly and openly, with an irrefutable historical and contemporary reality: our entire society, as non-native peoples, is based on the systematic theft of native lands, and the attempted genocide and assimilation of native people and their culture. Recognizing this reality, and organizing in support and solidarity with current native movements for justice, dignity and self-determination, is foundational to any social movement.

Active support with native-led self-determination struggles, as allies, is not just another issue, but rather central to a social justice movement worthy of that name. It means understanding that we continue to live in a colonial and neo-colonial reality, and that our organizing needs to be anti-colonial in form, content and action.

Presented by members of No One Is Illegal-Montreal
nooneisillegal@gmail.com
http://nooneisillegal-montreal.blogspot.com

For more info about Indigenous Sovereignty Week:
http://www.defendersoftheland.org/montreal

« Je l’avoue, je suis raciste » -- Jason Kenney

2009-10-24T23:17:00.003-04:00

Confrontation et perturbation de la venue de Jason Kenney à Montréal

Vendredi, le 23 octobre 2009 – Des militant-e-s pour la justice sociale pour les migrant-e-s, et leurs allié-e-s de l’Université McGill, ont perturbé la venue de Jason Kenney -- Ministre canadien de la Citoyenneté, de l’Immigration et du Multiculturalisme -- et l’ont confronté avant et pendant sa visite organisée par Conservative McGill.

Dans le cadre d’une action initiée par Personne n’est illégal-Montréal, plus de 50 manifestant-e-s ont pu entourer Kenney avant son entrée dans l’événement fermé au public. Pendant environ une minute, Kenney s’est fait poser plusieurs questions dont une portant sur le rapport paru aujourd’hui dans le Toronto Star (voir lien ci-dessous) sur le meurtre, au Mexique, d’une femme mexicaine qui s’est fait refuser le statut de réfugiée à deux reprises au Canada. Kenney a esquivé la question et refusé de répondre.

Kenney a également été questionné sur l’opposition de son parti à l’établissement d’une division d'appel pour les réfugié-e-s. Toujours sans réponse.

Alors qu’un membre de Personne n’est illégal lui a signalé que ses politiques pénalisaient les migrant-e-s et encouragaient les personnes racistes, Kenney a répondu (avec un brin de sarcasme) : « Je l’avoue, je suis raciste ». Au même moment, les gardes du corps de Kenney ont poussé les protestataires pour le laisser pénétrer dans la salle de conférence.

Pendant plus d’une heure, les manifestant-e-s ont scandé et fait du bruit pour perturber l’événement de l’extérieur. La manifestation comportait en partie un « teach-in » où certain-e-s militant-e-s en ont profité pour présenter le record de piste de Kenney, soulignant en particulier :

- le meurtre de Grise au Mexique, une femme s’ayant fait refuser le statut de réfugiée au Canada à deux reprises;
- le refus persistant des Conservateurs d’établir une division d'appel pour les demandeurs d'asile;
- le traitement de migrant-e-s sri lankais en Colombie Britannique récemment;
- l’introduction par Kenney de visas pour les Mexicains et les Tchèques sous le faux prétexte du nombre de demandes abusif de statut de réfugié;
- le soutien de Kenney dans les descentes sur les travailleur et travailleuses migrant.es en Ontario en avril dernier;
- son soutien inconditionnel aux crimes de guerre d’Israël dans la bande de Gaza et au Liban;
- son attaque à la liberté d’expression en refusant l’entrée au Canada à George Galloway;
- son rôle dans les coupures des fonds alloués à la Fédération Canado-Arabe (CAF);
- ses propositions de changements du statut des travailleurs/euses migrant-e-s qui rendraient leur situation encore plus précaire;
- la tendance de Kenney et des Conservateurs à pousser de plus en plus de migrant-e-s dans les catégories de travailleur temporaire;
- la levée du moratoire sur les déportations vers le Burundi, le Rwanda et le Liberia;
- le soutien de Kenney des politiques conservatrices qui justifient le recours à la torture et les certificats de sécurité;
- sa longue liste de commentaires racistes dépeignant les migrant-e-s comme abusant du système de réfugié et d’immigration;
- et bien plus (!).

Des membres de Solidarité sans frontières, en soutien actif aux migrant-e-s locaux qui font face aux renvois, ont aussi pris la parole pour témoigner de la réalité quotidienne des déportations et de la détention à Montréal, en donnant des exemples d’individus et de familles qui luttent pour le statut et défient les ordres de déportation.

À un moment, deux membres de Conservative McGill -- Gregory Harris et Derek Beigleman -- sont intervenus pour scander « Nous adorons Kenney, nous adorons Kenney ». Les manifestant.es sont demeuré-e-s silencieux temporairement avant de questionner les deux Conservateurs sur le meurtre de Grise et le système conservateur de politiques d’immigration à la source de cette tragédie. Les deux Conservateurs ont ri tout le long alors que leur étaient racontées la déportation et la mort éventuelle de Grise.

Dans la ligne de piquetage, des manifestant.es ont souligné solidairement l’action parallèle de Personne n’est illégal-Vancouver, qui demandait la libération de migrant-e-s sri lankais actuellement en détention suite à leur arrivée au Canada dimanche dernier, de même que l’assemblée organisée par Personne n’est illégal-Toronto qui se déroulait plus tard en soirée.

Ni frontière, ni nation, non aux déportations!
-- Personne n’est illégal-Montréal
http://nooneisillegal-montreal.blogspot.com
---------

L’article du Toronto Star sur le meurtre de Grise est lié ICI.

Une selection brève de photos de la perturbation est disponible ICI.

"I plead guilty, I'm a racist." -- Jason Kenney

2009-10-23T15:50:00.012-04:00

Jason Kenney confronted and disrupted in Montreal

October 23, 2009 -- Migrant justice activists and organizers, with their McGill allies, confronted and disrupted Jason Kenney -- Canada’s Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism -- before and during a closed function with Conservative McGill.

At least 50 protesters, in an action called by No One Is Illegal-Montreal, were able to surround Kenney in the Arts Building as he tried to enter the private event. For about one-minute, Kenney was asked about the report in today’s Toronto Star that a Mexican woman, who twice tried to apply for refugee status to Canada, was found murdered in Mexico (article is linked below). Kenney brushed off the question and didn’t answer.

Kenney was also asked explicitly about his party’s blocking of a refugee appeals division, and again he didn’t answer.

When Kenney was told by a member of No One Is Illegal that his policies scapegoat migrants and pander to racists, Kenney replied (with a hint of sarcasm): “I plead guilty, I’m a racist.” At that point, Kenney’s handlers and security pushed through protesters to get Kenney inside the venue.

For the next hour and more, protesters chanted and made noise to disrupt the event from outside. The protest was partially a teach-in as demonstrators gave speeches about Kenney’s track-record, highlighting in particular:

- the murder in Mexico of Grise, a woman who twice tried to claim refugee status in Canada but was refused
- the Conservatives continued refusal to implement a refugee appeals division;
- the recent treatment of Sri Lankan migrants who are currently detained in British Columbia;
- Kenney’s introduction of visas for Mexicans and Czechs while falsely misrepresenting their refugee claims as bogus;
- Kenney’s role in US-style mass raids on migrant workers in Ontario this past April;
- Kenney’s unapologetic defense of Israeli war crimes in Gaza and Lebanon;
- Kenney’s attack on free speech by preventing the entry of George Galloway into Canada;
- Kenney’s involvement in cutting the funding of the Canadian Arab Federation (CAF);
- Kenney’s proposed changes to the status of migrant workers, which makes their situation more precarious;
- the trend under Kenney and the Conservatives to push migrants into temporary worker categories;
- Kenney's defense of Conservative policies justifying rendition to torture and security certificates;

- the lifting of the moratorium on deportations to Burundi, Rwanda and Liberia, while making it harder for other migrants to make refugee claims;
- Kenney’s record of comments that pander to racists, by inaccurately portraying migrants as abusive of the immigration and refugee system.
- and more (!).

Members of Solidarity Across Borders, active in support work with local migrants facing removal, also spoke to the day-to-day reality of deportation and detention in Montreal, citing examples of local individuals and families fighting for status, in defiance of removal orders.

At one point, two members of Conservative McGill – Gregory Harris and Derek Beigleman -- began chanting “We love Kenney, we love Kenney.” Protesters stayed silent for at least a minute, and then asked the Conservatives about their view on the murder of Grise, as well as Conservative immigration and refugee policies that allowed the tragedy to happen. The two Conservatives laughed throughout the narration of Grise’s deportation and eventual death.

During the picket, protesters also spoke in solidarity with No One Is Illegal Vancouver’s picket today demanding the release of Sri Lankan migrants who are currently detained after arriving in Canada last Sunday, as well as this evening’s migrant justice assembly by No One Is Illegal-Toronto.

No borders, no nations, stop the deportations!
-- No One Is Illegal-Montreal
---------

The Toronto Star article about the murder of Grise is linked HERE.

A quick selection of photos of the picket (not including, unfortunately, the surrounding of Kenney by protesters before he entered the venue) is available HERE.

Tuesday: Young Defenders

2009-10-06T01:11:00.002-04:00

An evening with Chrissy Swain of the Grassy Narrows First Nation
Preceded by the film: ‘The Scars of Mercury’

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 7pm
2149 Mackay
(between Sherbrooke and de Maisonneuve)
metro Guy-Concordia

FREE! Donations appreciated.
Presentations in English; whisper translation into French.
If you need childcare, please contact us by phone 48 hours before the event.

Chrissy Swain of the Grassy Narrows Anishnabe First Nation in northwestern Ontario will speak about ongoing efforts against logging and mining in her community. Chrissy helped to begin a logging blockade in 2002, and will have just completed the 2nd Walk for Mother Earth from Grassy Narrows to Ottawa, an 1800 km journey undertaken with youth.

‘The Scars of Mercury’ (40 minutes) explores the processes that threaten the destruction of a traditional and contemporary Indigenous hunting, fishing and gathering way of life, through residential schools, relocation, treaty violations, and clear-cutting, with a special focus on mercury poisoning.

Presented by the Indigenous Solidarity Committee, a working group of QPIRG Concordia, and No One Is Illegal-Montreal.
INFO: indigenoussolidaritymontreal@gmail.com - 514-848-7585

Mardi: Jeunes défenseurs de la terre

2009-10-06T01:02:00.005-04:00

Une soirée avec Chrissy Swain
de la communauté autochtone Grassy Narrows
Avec le film: "The Scars of Mercury"

MARDI LE 6 OCTOBRE, 19h
2149 Mackay
(entre Sherbrooke et de Maisonneuve)
métro Guy-Concordia

GRATUIT! Les dons sont bienvenus.
Présentations en anglais; traduction chuchotée vers le français.
Si vous avez besoin d'une service de garde pour les enfants, svp contactez-nous par téléphone.

Chrissy Swain de la communauté autochtone Anishnabe appelé "Grassy Narrows" au nord-ouest de l'Ontario parlera des luttes contre les compagnies forestières et minières dans sa communauté. Chrissy a commencé un blocage des véhicules forestièrs en 2002, et elle vient de complèter sa deuxième Marche pour la Terre Mère de Grassy Narrows à Ottawa, un voyage de 1800km.

"The Scars of Mercury" est un film sur la déstruction de la mode de vie des communautés autochtones à cause des pensionnats, le déplacement forcé, la violation des traités et les coups à blanc.

Présenté par le Comité de solidarité autochtone, un groupe de travail au GRIP à Concordia, et Personne n'est illégal-Montréal.
INFO: indigenoussolidaritymontreal@gmail.com - 514-848-7585.

No One Is Illegal Radio (September 2009)

2009-09-05T00:36:00.005-04:00

No One Is Illegal Radio reports about the frontline struggles for justice, dignity and self-determination by migrants, refugees and indigenous peoples. On the SEPTEMBER 2009 edition of No One Is Illegal Radio:

--> A feature-length live in-studio interview with MOHAMED CHERFI, former spokesperson with the Action Committee of Non-Status Algerians; deported from Canada in 2004, detained in the United States for more than one year, and now, after more than five years, back in Montreal.

--> An interview with SAMUEL MCKAY, a councillor with the Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) First Nation on the shores of Big Trout Lake in northwestern Ontario, resisting mining exploration by Platinex.

--> An interview with ALEX BRADLEY of the Pittsburgh Organizing Group and Pittsburgh G20 Resistance Project, about local resistance efforts against the upcoming meeting of the G20 (September 24-25, 2009).

-> Listen to the entire SEPTEMBER 2009 show HERE.

THE STRUGGLE OF MOHAMED CHERFI

Mohamed Cherfi was an organizer and spokesperson for the Action Committee of Non-Status Algerians. When the moratorium on deportations to Algeria was lifted in April 2002, Mohamed was active in resisting removals, and organizing a campaign to stop the deportations. There were many successes, and a large number of non-status Algerians were able to stay in Canada after a long struggle. Mohamed, however, as an outspoken activist, was targeted for his organizing activities. In defiance of a deportation order, Mohamed was offered sanctuary in a Quebec City church in February 2004, but his sanctuary was violated and Mohamed was summarily removed to the United States, where he was detained for more than one year in a federal detention facility. Ironically, Mohamed received refugee status in the United States, something denied to him by Canadian authorities. Since his release from prison in 2005, Mohamed and his support network have persistently fought for his ability to return to Canada and Quebec, and just a few short weeks ago, after many twists and turns, Mohamed was finally able to return to Canada as a permanent resident. This month's No On Is Illegal Radio features a show-length interview with MOHAMED CHERFI.

Background Info:
- Video: Mohamed Cherfi et les sans-statut algériens
- Roundtable: The Fight for Refugee and Migrant Rights in Canada (with Mohamed Cherfi)
- Radio-Canada: Mohamed Cherfi de retour au pays

KI FIRST NATION CONTINUES RESISTANCE AGAINST PLATINEX

This past August 26, members of the Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) First Nation prevented a plane from landing on a lake on their traditional territory. The plane was transporting employees of Platinex, a mining company that is trying to prospect on KI territory. In 2008, members of the KI community were jailed for 68 days for defying a court injunction to allow Platinex access to their territory. KI is on the shores of Big Trout Lake, about 580 km north of Thunder Bay, with a population of 1,300. For background to the situation at KI, we speak with KI councillor SAMUEL MCKAY.

Background Info:
- KI/Platinex Dispute: http://www.kitelecom.myknet.org/
- Video: KI/Platinex Dispute August 26, 2009

G-20 RESISTANCE IN PITTSBURGH

This coming September 24-25, the G-20 will be gathering in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The G-20 comprises finance ministers and bank governors of 19 industrialized and emerging market economies, as well as the EU. The G-20 summit in Pittsburgh, like the previous summit in London, UK, will include heads of state. The G-20 plays a leading role in helping rehabilitate capitalism during this economic crisis; many anti-capitalists retort that “capitalism is crisis”. For perspective on grassroots opposition efforts we speak with ALEX BRADLEY of the Pittsburgh G-20 Resistance Project, an anti-authoritarian network that will resist the G-20 meetings later this month.

Background Info:
- Pittsburgh G-20 Resistance Project: http://resistg20.org/

Listen to the entire SEPTEMBER 2009 show HERE.

---------
No One Is Illegal-Montreal is part of a worldwide movement of resistance, fighting for justice and dignity, and the right to self-determination for migrants, refugees and indigenous people. Our campaign is in public confrontation with the Canadian state, denouncing and taking action to combat racial profiling, police brutality, detentions and deportations, as well as opposing the displacement and genocide of indigenous peoples on Turtle Island.

INFO: 514-848-7583 -- nooneisillegal@gmail.com
http://nooneisillegal-montreal.blogspot.com

Previous editions of No One Is Illegal Radio are linked HERE.

No One Is Illegal Radio (August 2009)

2009-08-20T01:52:00.010-04:00

No One Is Illegal Radio reports about the frontline struggles for justice, dignity and self-determination by migrants, refugees and indigenous peoples.

On the AUGUST 2009 edition of No One Is Illegal Radio we focus on the policies of Fortress Europe. We hear from activists and migrants based in Germany organizing against racism and borders and defending the rights and dignity of asylum seekers. Based on a visit to Berlin by Robyn Maynard of No One Is Illegal-Montreal, we'll hear four interviews providing context and insight into the European border regime, and grassroots organizing for justice. We also hear more about the recent No Border Camp in Calais.

This month's show features members of The Initiative in Memory of Oury Jalloh, The Caravan for the Rights of Migrants and Refugees, Gipfelsoli, and the Anti-Racist Initiative, all based in Germany, as well as a member of London No Borders.

More info below.
--> Listen to the entire AUGUST 2009 show HERE.

THE CASE OF OURY JALLOH

On the morning of January 7, 2005, Oury Jalloh, an asylum seeker from Sierra Leone was arrested by the police and taken into custody in Dessau, Germany. He was beaten, handcuffed and chained on hands and feet to the floor of a cell. Four hours later in unexplained circumstances, his cell was on fire. Instead of helping Oury, the policemen on duty turned off the alarm three times. Oury burned to death. Since then, Oury's friends and antiracist groups in Germany are demanding justice. They formed “The Initiative in Memory of Oury Jalloh”. The Oury Jalloh case is representative of much of the racism and brutality towards migrants in Germany, and in Fortress Europe in general.

For more perspective on this case, we speak with MAI, a member of The Caravan for the Rights of Migrants and Refugees as well as the Initiative in Memory of Oury Jalloh. We also speak with MOUCTAR BAH, who made the original call for justice after Oury Jalloh's death; he was a friend of Oury and is also active with the Initiative in Memory of Oury Jalloh.

Background Info:
The Initiative in Memory of Oury Jalloh: http://initiativeouryjalloh.wordpress.com/
The Caravan for the Rights of Migrants and Refugees: http://thecaravan.org/
Video: In Memory of Oury Jalloh (with narration by Mumia Abu-Jamal):

FORTRESS EUROPE IN GERMANY

Oury Jalloh's death was not random but part of a larger European project of building "Fortress Europe" to keep migrants out of the European Union in general. For broader context, we speak with MATTHIAS & ELKE. Matthias is a member of Gipfelsoli, an anti-G8 organizing group in Berlin, and Elke is a member of the Anti-Racist Initiative (ARI).

Background Info:
Report: German asylum policy and its deadly consequences
Gipfelsoli: http://gipfelsoli.org/

NO BORDER CAMP AT CALAIS

Calais is a major gateway for migrants into the UK from continental Europe, and a flashpoint for EU anti-border and anti-migrant policies. In June 2009, a No Border Camp took place at Calais, and for insight we speak with DAN, a member of London No Borders.

Background Info:
Calais No Border Camp: http://calaisnoborder.eu.org/
London No Borders: http://london.noborders.org.uk/

--> Listen to the entire AUGUST 2009 show HERE.

The SHOW:
Segment 1: Introduction (2:57)
Segment 2: The Case of Oury Jalloh I, with Mai of The Caravan for the Rights of Migrants and Refugees (12:13)
Segment 3: The Case of Oury Jalloh II, with Mouctar Bah of the Initiative in Memory of Oury Jalloh (6:48)
Segment 4: Fortress Europe in Germany I, with Matthias of Gipfelsoli (12:35)
Segment 5: Fortress Europe in Germany II, with Elke of Anti-Racist Initiative (6:10)
Segment 6: The Calais No Border Camp, with Dan of London No Borders (12:48)

Fortress Europe interviews on previous editions of No One Is Illegal Radio:

-- Fortress Europe at Ceuta (Spain), interview with David Moffette of No One Is Illegal-Quebec City (August 2008). Listen HERE.

-- Abdelaziz Chaambi, of the anti-colonial Mouvement des Indigènes de la république, from Lyon, France (March 2008). Listen HERE.

-- Afghan refugees refuse forcible removal from Norway: an interview with Sverre Pederson, anti-racism activist in Oslo (August 2007). Listen HERE.

- Teresa Hayter, author of "Open Borders: The Case Against Immigration Controls" (Pluto Press 2004), and an organizer of the Campaign to Close Campsfield (August 2006). Listen HERE.

---------
No One Is Illegal-Montreal is part of a worldwide movement of resistance, fighting for justice and dignity, and the right to self-determination for migrants, refugees and indigenous people. Our campaign is in public confrontation with the Canadian state, denouncing and taking action to combat racial profiling, police brutality, detentions and deportations, as well as opposing the displacement and genocide of indigenous peoples on Turtle Island.

INFO: 514-848-7583 -- nooneisillegal@gmail.com
http://nooneisillegal-montreal.blogspot.com

Previous editions of No One Is Illegal Radio are linked HERE.

HOODSTOCKEZ-VOUS!

2009-08-06T06:59:00.001-04:00

INFO: www.hoodstock.ca

Anti-Canada Day Solidarity Statement with Akwesasne

2009-07-01T17:24:00.009-04:00

July 1, 2009 – Montreal
To the members of the community of Akwesasne --
To all members of the Haudenosaunee --

We write to publicly express our respect, solidarity and support with the continued struggles for sovereignty and self-determination by Haudonausanee peoples.

In particular, we highlight our admiration for the courageous and ongoing community resistance to armed border agents at Kahwehnoke in Akwesasne. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is an occupier on Kanionke:haka lands, and we unequivocally support the demand of the people’s movement at Akwesasne to refuse the arming of any border agents. We also support the demand for free movement for all members of the Akwesasne community.

We understand the resistance at Akwesasne in the context of continued struggles for land and self-determination throughout the Iroquois Confederacy: from the ongoing Land Reclamation at Six Nations to the re-occupation of the Culbertson Tract at Tyendinaga; from the opposition to the Highway 30 expansion at Kahnawake to the restoration of the Confederacy Council.

Resistance to Canadian colonialism and neo-colonialism has meant attacks on Haudenosaunee people who refuse to submit to colonial rule. We have noted and learned from members of the Akwesasne community about Jake Ice who was killed by police agents in 1899. Recently, during the resistance at Akwesasne, the OPP attacked protesters on the Skyway Bridge at Tyendinaga, leaving members of that community bloodied, arrested and jailed.

We condemn all Canadian government, police and army attacks on Haudenosaunee peoples, including the continued criminalization of members of the Six Nations and Tyendinaga communities, where dozens still face charges and trials. The colonial Canadian courts and police cannot stand in judgment of the sovereign peoples of the Haudenosaunee, and all charges must be dropped.

No One Is Illegal-Montreal is a grassroots migrant justice, anti-colonial, no border group comprised of members from racialized and immigrant backgrounds. We are struggling for the self-determination of migrants and in support of the self-determination of Indigenous peoples. We are in active confrontation with a colonial system built on the dispossession and genocide of indigenous peoples, as well as racist anti-immigrant laws.

The CBSA, and the border they enforce, serve not only to divide Haudenosaunee peoples, and the community of Akwesasne, but also to enforce a racist immigration regime that deports and detains members of our communities. We struggle actively against those deportation and detentions, and against all borders and barriers to free movement.

This July 1, 2009, we join with others in a convergence on Akwesasne to show support for the Kanionke:haka peoples resistance against the CBSA. We also stand in opposition to the Canadian state and its policies and practices. We can think of no better way to spend our “Anti-Canada Day” than to stand in solidarity and to learn from you.

We continue to try to practice our own decolonization, rooted in the traditions and understanding of the Haudenosaunee – such as the two-row wampum treaty --and in a present and future where we can establish and re-establish relations based on values of mutual aid, solidarity and respect, in a common struggle against oppression.

In struggle and solidarity,
With respect,
No One Is Illegal-Montreal.

nooneisillegal@gmail.com
http://nooneisillegal-montreal.blogspot.com

Tuesday: Defending the Land! (Native Friendship Center)

2009-06-14T23:03:00.004-04:00

Struggles for self-determination & sovereignty at Six Nations & Akwesasne

Speakers include:

- Jacqueline House from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory

- Uwahneheneh, representative of the Men's Fire of Grand River, Six Nations

AND

- Sakoietah of the Traditional Men’s Council at Akwesasne

- Tiohtiake Drum will open the evening with an honour song.

Since 2006, members of Six Nations of the Grand River Territory have reclaimed their land from property developers and the government, an ongoing Land Reclamation that continues to this day.

Currently, the Akwesasne Mohawk Community is united in resistance to the arming of Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) guards on their territory; community opposition has resulted in CBSA border agents leaving their posts at Akwesasne.

In support of the stand at Akwesasne, members of the Tyendinaga Mohawk Community have blocked a bridge on their territory, while members of Six Nations have disrupted highway traffic.

Join us for an evening of discussion and information about these struggles for indigenous self-determination and sovereignty on Turtle Island.

----------
TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 6:30PM
at the Native Friendship Center of Montreal
2001 St. Laurent Boulevard
(métro St-Laurent)
-----------

This event is FREE. Donations appreciated.
Wheelchair accessible.
Childcare available with 48 hours notice (tel: 514-848-7585).

Since 2006, members of Six Nations of the Grand River Territory in southwestern Ontario have reclaimed their land from property developers and the government. The Land Reclamation at Six Nations has been an inspiring example of decolonization, despite police and government attacks as well as the criminalization of protesters. Land reclamations on traditional Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy lands are ongoing.

Meanwhile, more recently, the Mohawk Community of Akwesasne continues to resist the imposition of armed border guards by the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA). On June 1st, CBSA were scheduled to carry sidearms, but community resistance resulted in the closing of the border by the Canadian government.

Come learn more about the continuing resistance at Six Nations and Akwesasne, from frontline community voices; speakers include:

- Jacqueline House from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory

- Uwahneheneh, representative of the Men's Fire of Grand River, Six Nations

AND

- Sakoietah of the Traditional Men’s Council at Akwesasne

The speakers will address ongoing efforts to decolonize their unceded land, and will offer the opportunity to refresh and reinforce links of solidarity and support. Come learn about how to support those who face criminalization for defending their land and the environment.

This event will also include updates about other ongoing indigenous sovereignty, solidarity and support efforts, including: the upcoming march and vigil (June 18) for Tiffany Morrison on the 3-year anniversary of her disappearance. Tiffany is a member of the Kahnawake Mohawk Community, and one of more than 500 missing, murdered or disappeared indigenous women in Canada.

Organized by the Indigenous Solidarity Committee of the People’s Global Action (PGA) Bloc & No One Is Illegal-Montreal.

INFO: 514-848-7583 – nooneisillegal@gmail.com

Mardi: La défense de la terre (Centre d'amitié autochtone de Montréal)

2009-06-11T23:05:00.003-04:00

Les luttes pour l'auto-détermination et la souverainté à Six Nations et Akwesasne

Présentations par:
Jacqueline House de Six Nations du territoire Grand River
et
Un membre du Conseil traditionnel des hommes à Akwesasne

Depuis 2006, des membres de Six Nations du territoire de la Grand River réclament leur terres des développeurs et du gouvernement, une revendication territoriale qui continue jusqu'au présent.

Présentement, la communauté Mohawk d'Akwesasne est uni pour résister le droit aux armes des gardes de l'Agence des services frontaliers du Canada (ASFC) sur leur territoire. L'opposition communautaire a eu comme résultat l'abandon de leurs postes par les agents frontaliers de l'ASFC à Akwesasne.

Venez nous joindre pour une soirée d'information et de discussion au sujet de ses luttes pour l'auto-détermination autochtone et la souveraineté sur l'Île de la Tortue.

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Mardi, le 16 juin, 18h30
Centre d'amitié autochtone de Montréal
2001 boulevard St. Laurent
(métro St-Laurent)
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L'évènement est GRATUIT. Les dons sont appréciés.
Accessible au fauteuils roulants.
Garde d'enfants disponible avec 48 heures de préavis (tel: 514-848-7585).
Présentations en anglais, avec traduction chuchotée vers le français.

Organisé par le Comité de solidarité autochtone du Bloc Action mondial des peuples (AMP) et Personne n'est illégal - Montréal

INFO: 514-848-7583 – nooneisillegal@gmail.com

Akwesasne/CBSA: Articles, Audio, Video and Analysis (Updated (June 7, 2009)

2009-06-08T04:21:00.007-04:00

HIGHLIGHTS:

- Seaway International Bridge, on the Mohawk territory of Akwesasne, remains closed

- Akwesasne community still not allowed full free movement on their own territory

- Tyendinaga Mohawks shut down Skyway Bridge in support of Akwesasne

- Public Safety Minister Peter Van Loan states that permanently "moving the border crossing off the Akwesasne reserve" is an option

PUBLIC EVENT (MONTREAL):

Defending the Land: Struggles for sovereignty and self-determination at Six Nations and Akwesasne (June 16) at the Native Friendship Center of Montreal

http://nooneisillegal-montreal.blogspot.com/2009/06/june-16-defending-land-native.html

IN QUOTES:

"What the border has done to far too many of our First Nations communities is horrific and atrocious on so many levels -- and it has poisoned our minds to think in singular factions, instead of a full circle...Which way is going to best resolve this situation I’m not sure of yet but I do know we have a right to stand up for our own community, which will never solely be in Canada or the United States. We belong to Mother Earth in whom no one has claim over – and where there aren't any borders." – Jessica Yee, Kanionke:haka (writing in rabble.ca, June 5, 2009)

"When the people make their decision, that's what needs to be carried out, and the people have made their decision: there will be no firearms carried by customs agents on our territory." -- Sakoietah, member of the Men's Traditional Council at Akwesasne (in an interview with No One Is Illegal Radio, June 4, 2009)

"They'll have to accept armed border officers there." – Peter Van Loan, Canadian Minister of Public Safety, responsible for the Canadian Border Services Agency (quoted by Canadian Press, June 7, 2009)

[further updates, comprehensive chronology, and backgrounder included below]

RECENT ARTICLES, AUDIO, VIDEO & ANALYSIS:

1) "Akwesasne under siege" (rabble.ca, June 5, 2009):

http://rabble.ca/columnists/2009/06/akwesasne-under-siege

2) Mohawks continue struggle at border (Indian Country Today, June 5, 2009):

http://www.indiancountrytoday.com/home/content/47044112.html

3) AUDIO: Interview with Sakoietah, member of the Men’s Traditional Council at Akwesasne (No One Is Illegal-Montreal Radio, June 4, 2009):

http://www.radio4all.net:8080/files/jaggisingh@gmail.com/2840-1-sakoiepah-final.mp3

4) Interview with Brendan White, Mohawk Council of Akwesasne (Ottawa Citizen, June 3, 2009):

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/This+unique+situation+have+Akwesasne+with+Mohawk+spokesman+Brendan+White/1658208/story.htm l

5) VIDEO: Kanietakeron gives message to CBSA agents (video by Neddie Thompson, May 31, 2009)

Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-J-479EaojM

Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vH7zuzkbjuc

6) VIDEO: Protest at border crossing by Akwesasne Mohawks

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRM6ev4FBVg

7) Mohawk Nation News (MNN) Articles:

Click HERE.

8) Akwesasne Forums:

http://akwesasne.ca/

http://myakwesasne.com/

9) PHOTOS from Akwesasne (by independent journalist Sandra Cuffe):

http://www.flickr.com/photos/lavagabunda/

10) Previous No One Is Illegal-Montreal Updates:

http://nooneisillegal-montreal.blogspot.com/2009/06/akwesasne.html

UPDATES FROM MAY-JUNE 2009

* June 7, 2009: Tyendinaga Mohawks issue a release stating "Tyendinaga Answers Akwesasne’s Call, Shuts Down Skyway Bridge in Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory." The release in full:

“The community of Akwesasne has been living without the freedom of mobility for one week. People have been cut off from family and friends, barred from access to elder relatives in need of care, unable to get to work and hundreds of children have had their school year disrupted.

It is no secret that there are significant tensions between the community of Akwesasne and Canadian Border Services Agency. Hundred of complaints have been filed for incidents like conducting a cavity search on a teenager, subjecting a pregnant woman to repeated x-rays and interrogating children after forcibly removing them from the care of adult family members.

As a result, the community of Akwesasne has clearly stated that it has substantial concerns over the arming of these same guards. The position of the Federal Government that it refuses any discussion with Akwesasne is ludicrous and will only engender further mistrust and frustration.

Tyendinaga understands this frustration and calls for the Federal Government to enter into meaningful discussions with the community of Akwesasne.

Ignoring the concerns of First Nations communities will not make the issues go away.”

* June 6, 2009: Akwesasne band council chief Tim Thompson states that despite claims by politicians of dialogue with Akwesasne, federal politicians are not in discussion with Akwesasne leaders. The only concrete discussion was a request from CBSA to remove equipment out of the customs facility, but the Akwesasne leader rejected the request.

http://lfpress.ca/newsstand/News/Local/2009/06/06/9698246-sun.html

* June 6, 2009: “A sense of emergency is in the air, but tensions remain cool on Cornwall Island in light of the ongoing dispute over the arming of border guards. Akwesasne residents have been chipping in to assist one another in numerous ways as the international passage that bisects their community remains closed as a result of the dispute. A food drive has been set up on the U. S. side of Akwesasne, and food, supplies and money are being dropped off and shipped to the island by boat.”

http://www.standard-freeholder.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1601017

* June 5, 2009: Public Safety Minister Peter Van Loan states that permanently "moving the border crossing off the Akwesasne reserve" is a serious option being evaluated. Peter Van Loan says the government is examining all options, including moving the port of entry that now links Cornwall, Ont., and Massena, N.Y. Appearing Sunday on a national political television program, he refused to say when a decision would be made.

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Feds+confirm+relocation+border+crossing+under+review/1666915/story.html

http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5ipHHAbgXjqj4In9fuvY8cwlXpX5Q

* June 3, 2009: Canadian Border Services Agency states it is considering entering third-party mediation with Akwesasne Mohawk leaders. Guy Lauzon, Conservative MP for Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry, said he has been told a mediation process to settle the dispute is currently "in play". Akwesasne band council chief Larry King said, as far as he knew, the band council leadership had yet to be informed of the mediation proposal, but said they were open to more talk.

http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/Mohawks+border+agency+considering+mediation/1656859/story.html

* June 2, 2009: Mayor Bob Kilger of Cornwall is calling on the federal government to resolve the current dispute in Akwesasne.

http://www.standard-freeholder.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1593559

* As of 5 pm on June 1 2009, the bridge to the Akwesasne reserve is opened for residents to return home, according to Akwesasne's Chief Tim Thompson. The border crossing to the US remains closed.

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Akwesasne+bridge+opened+local+residents/1651926/story.html

* On June 1, 2009, the federal Minister of Public Safety, Peter Van Loan, states that the Canada-U.S. border crossing near Cornwall, Ont. won't reopen until the Mohawk community accepts that guards at the border will be armed with handguns.

http://ottawa.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20090601/OTT_Border_Protest_090601/20090601?hub=Ottawa

* On June 1 2009, during the afternoon, the federal Minister of Public Safety, Peter Van Loan, said the Cornwall Island crossing will not be exempted from arming because the Conservative government plans on committing to its promise to arm all 4,800 border officers at land and sea ports of entry by 2016.

http://www.standard-freeholder.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1593213

* June 1, 2009 (5:35am): More than 50 protesters are maintaining a presence near the Canadian customs building on Cornwall Island. There are at least five fires burning to keep demonstrators warm. Many more residents and supporters are expected to be on-site as the morning progresses.

http://nooneisillegal-montreal.blogspot.com/2009/06/akwesasne.html

* On midnight of May 30, 2009, Canadian Border Services Agency workers left their posts on Cornwall Island, citing safety concerns, in advance of the Akwesasne Mohawk demonstration. Soon after the Canadian guards left, their U.S. counterparts did the same thing and police on both sides barricaded the crossing. Vehicular traffic onto the Seaway International Bridge has been shut down by police on both sides of the border, although pedestrians were still being allowed to access the bridge.

http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5jc3eZgl16gB4iY56X6QorsZC0a9A

* On May 29, 2009, over 100 Akwesasne Mohawks marched on the border and served CBSA with yet another notice and demand that the CBSA not arm the guards and that their demand be sent to officials in Ottawa. "What we are waiting for is an answer from Ottawa. We don't get that answer, action has got to be taken by the people," said Thomas Stacy. "We are not getting anywhere with the government. The government is going to come over here and take over everything."

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Mohawks+protest+slated+arming+Canadian+border+guards/1647377/story.html

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

- CBSA agents were due to be armed at the Port of Cornwall (Kahwehnoke) crossing on June 1 2009, a policy universally opposed and condemned by the Akwesasne Mohawk Community -

[CBSA press release (May 9, 2009): http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/media/release-communique/2009/2009-05-09-eng.html ]

The Mohawk territory of Akwesasne straddles the jurisdictions of Ontario, Quebec and New York State, and is a major international border crossing between Canada and the United States. Canadian Border Service Agency (CBSA) guards began arming in 2007, and there are currently more than 800 armed CBSA guards across Canada. The entire CBSA aims to be armed, in stages, by 2016. The CBSA announced that their agents at the Port of Entry at Cornwall (at Akwesasne) would be armed by June 1 of 2009.

As written in Mohawk Nation News on May 3, 2009: "For the next month Mohawks of Akwesasne will be protesting colonial Canadian border guards arming themselves with Beretta 9 mm handguns in the middle of our community. They hope to start on June 1. Akwesasne is on both sides of the foreign Canada-U.S. border and home to the whole community regardless of this imaginary line... A letter was sent to Prime Minister Stephen Harper to have meetings with Public Safety Minister Peter Van Loan and his predecessor Stockwell Day over a year ago. There has been no response. We hear that the European settler experience at the border is completely different. They are often waved through without harassment." (For full article visit: http://noii-van.resist.ca/?p=1076 )

The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne passed resolution #318 on February 28, 2008 forbidding firearms to be carried by Canada Border Services Agents CBSA on the territory of Akwesasne.

On May 8, 2009 over 250 Mohawks marched on the U.S.-Canada border. As written in Mohawk Nation News: "We are the most policed people in the world. Almost 20 U.S. and Canadian enforcement agencies traverse our community." Daily disagreements have been instigated against Mohawks who must pass through the checkpoint on a daily basis. There have been serious injuries, hospitalizations, charges and assaults. So far there have been no fatalities. There has been a steady increase in racial profiling and slurs direct at us sanctioned by Canada. Incidents are being provoked to justify armed guards. Hundreds of complaints have been filed with the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, Canada Justice Department and the Canadian Human Rights Commission. No peaceful resolution has come forward."

During the month of May, the community attempted to pressure and negotiate with the federal government and lobby at the international level. On May 26, 2009 Cornwall city council passed a resolution that no guns should be given to the CBSA guards. On May 28, 2009 Skarohreh Doug Anderson of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy presented a request to the Secretary of the UN Security Council to ask the UN to send officials to Akwesasne. Kenneth Deer of Kahnawake raised the issue of guns at Akwesasne with the Permanent Forum on Indigenous People.

Excerpt of statement to Secretary of the UN Security Council in New York: "On June 1 the Canada Border Services Agency guards will try to carry 9mm Berettas, which are meant to kill people. The UN must stop this attempt at ethnic cleansing at Akwesasne. Canada at the behest of the U.S. is trying to commit genocide on us, the real people of mother earth. The reasonable decision of the Haudenosaunee, our friends and supporters, is that there should be no guns anywhere on the Canada-U.S. border on the Canadian side. Canada is setting a precedent that any visitor arriving will have the barrel of a gun in their faces, so to say. We want the border station to be removed from the middle of Akwesasne. We know the power they presently exercise without the guns. They ridicule and demean us as we come through the border. They use their power of intimidation to pull us into their building away from the protective eyes of our friends and relatives. We have no choice but to cross many times a day to carry on our normal lives. The violence will always be directed at us and not at them. We want peace. These supposed peace officers are acting like war zone combatants. What a contradictory message Canada sends out to the world."

The Akwesasne Mohawk Council Chiefs offered several compromise positions to senior Canada Border Services Agency officials during a meeting in Ottawa, but were rebuffed on May 28, 2009, according to Chief Larry King. During the Ottawa meeting, the chiefs unsuccessfully asked that the move be delayed for at least a year or until the end of CBSA’s arming process in 2016 to allow more time for community consultations as well as time for officers to be trained in cultural sensitivity by the community. The meeting ended with a declaration from CBSA president Stephen Rigby that our position is what it is; to which the chiefs responded, whatever happens will happen said King. (Source: http://www.ottawacitizen.com/Armed+border+guards/1644877/story.html )

SOME ADDITIONAL HISTORY AND BACKGROUND:

-> Many members of the Akwesasne community currently opposing armed border guards have referenced the story of Saiowisakeron (Jake Ice), a traditional Mohawk man who was shot and killed by Dominion police in 1899. There is a statue of Jake Ice at Akwesasne, which has become a focal point to express opposition to armed border agents. More information about Jake Ice available here: www.wampumchronicles.com/saiowisakeron.html

-> In 1968, members of the community blocked the border-crossing bridge against the policy that forced Akwesasne residents to pay duty on purchases they made in the United States, despite the fact that the Jay Treaty of 1794, also known as the “Treaty of Amity, Commerce and Navigation” affirmed that they were not required to do so. An NFB documentary by Mort Ransen is available online at: http://intercontinentalcry.org/you-are-on-indian-land/

For an extensive backgrounder, read “Forty-one year legacy of Mohawk resistance at Akwesasne border” by Mohawk Nation News: click HERE.

-> June 2008: Mohawk grandmothers attacked by CBSA guards; more info here: http://nooneisillegal-montreal.blogspot.com/2008/06/cbsa-attack.html

-> Katenies, a member of the Akwesasne community, has openly challenged the colonial “Canada-US” border. She refuses to recognize the authority of the Canadian courts to judge her for “border violations”. Article/Audio compilation here: http://nooneisillegal-montreal.blogspot.com/2008/06/katenies-cbsa-background.html

[Information compiled by Harsha (No One Is Illegal-Vancouver) & Jaggi (No One Is Illegal-Montreal). Please send information for future updates to BOTH noii-van@resist.ca AND nooneisillegal@gmail.com ]

No One Is Illegal Radio (June 2009)

2009-06-05T08:16:00.007-04:00

No One Is Illegal Radio reports about the frontline struggles for justice, dignity and self-determination by migrants, refugees and indigenous peoples. On the JUNE 2009 edition of No One Is Illegal Radio:
- Akwesasne Mohawks oppose armed CBSA border guards
- CBSA Raids on workplaces in southern Ontario continue
- Vigil for Tiffany Morrison, missing for 3 years

More info below. Listen to the entire JUNE 2009 show HERE.

Akwesasne Mohawks oppose armed CBSA border guards

"When the people make their decision, that's what needs to be carried out, and the people have made their decision: there will be no firearms carried by customs agents on our territory." -- Sakoietah, Men's Traditional Council at Akwesasne

On June 1, 2009, Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) guards were due to carry firearms at the border crossing located on the territory of Akwesasne. However, as a result of community opposition and resistance, the guards have abandoned their posts.

For perspective on the situation at Akwesasne, No One Is Illegal Radio speaks with SAKOIETAH, a member of the Men's Traditional Council (the Warrior Society) at Akwesasne. -> LISTEN to the interview HERE.

BACKGROUND INFO:
-> NOII-Montreal Akwesasne Updates/Articles
-> Article/Audio Compilation: Katenies (from Akwesasne) challenges the colonial US-Canada border (June 2008)
-> Report: Mohawk grandmothers attacked by CBSA guards (June 2008)
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CBSA Raids on workplaces in southern Ontario continue

Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) guards have also been involved raids and detentions of migrant workers in southern Ontario. Recent raids, in late May, follow on unprecedented CBSA raids in April in southern Ontario, where more than 100 workers were picked up at workplaces and homes.

For background and analysis, No One Is Illegal Radio speaks with CHRIS RAMSAROOP, an organizer with Justicia for Migrant Workers, an organization working with migrant and undocumented workers in southern Ontario. -> LISTEN to the interview HERE.

BACKGROUND INFO:
-> NOII-Toronto Action Alert.
-> Protests respond to Ontario immigration raids.
-> CBSA Raids: Montreal Solidarity Statement.
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Vigil for Tiffany Morrison, missing for 3 years

This coming June 18, 2009 marks the 3rd anniversary of the disappearance of Tiffany Morrison from the community of Kahnawake. Tiffany, a mother in her 20s, is one of more than 500 murdered, missing and disappeared indigenous women in Canada since 1980.

To preview the upcoming vigil, No One Is Illegal Radio speaks with KARY ANN DEER, a concerned community member from Kahnawake and an organizer of the vigil for Tiffany Morrison. -> LISTEN to the interview HERE.

BACKGROUND INFO:
-> Stolen Sisters: Tiffany Morrison
-> Justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
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No One Is Illegal-Montreal is part of a worldwide movement of resistance, fighting for justice and dignity, and the right to self-determination for migrants, refugees and indigenous people. Our campaign is in public confrontation with the Canadian state, denouncing and taking action to combat racial profiling, police brutality, detentions and deportations, as well as opposing the displacement and genocide of indigenous peoples on Turtle Island.

INFO: 514-848-7583 -- nooneisillegal@gmail.com
http://nooneisillegal-montreal.blogspot.com

Previous editions of No One Is Illegal Radio are linked HERE.

No One Is Illegal Radio (May 2009)

2009-06-05T07:18:00.006-04:00

No One Is Illegal Radio reports about the frontline struggles for justice, dignity and self-determination by migrants, refugees and indigenous peoples. On the MAY 2009 edition of No One Is Illegal Radio:

We focus on the issue on the issue of more than 500 murdered, missing and disappeared indigenous girls and women in Canada, as well as get an update from the ongoing struggle at Grassy Narrows, where a trapper and clan mother is facing charges for building traditional cabins.

-> The entire MAY 2009 show is linked HERE.

On the show:

We hear from LAURIE ODJICK, who has been organizing and struggling for justice and answers in the case of her missing 16 year-old daughter Maisy Odjick, from the Algonquin community of Kitigan Zibi near Maniwaki (Quebec). Maisy has been missing since September 8, 2008. ->LISTEN to the interview HERE.

We also hear from ELLEN GABRIEL of the Quebec Native Women's Association, for background on the Sisters in Spirit campaign to raise awareness and understanding about the more than 500 murdered, missing and disappeared indigenous girls and women in Canada since 1980. -> LISTEN the interview HERE.

BACKGROUND INFO:
-> An open letter by Laurie Odjick.
-> LISTEN to Laurie Odjick reading her Open Letter concerning the disappearance of her daughter HERE.
-> Indigenous Women and Violence: A report by the Quebec Native Women's Association
-> Amnesty International Stolen Sisters Campaign
-> Justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
-----

We also get an update about the struggle at Grassy Narrows in Northwestern Ontario from ROBERTA KEESICK, a clan mother, trapper, blockader and grandmother who is currently facing charges for building traditional cabins on the land of the Anishinaabek. -> LISTEN to the interview HERE.

BACKGROUND INFO:
-> Grassy Narrows need your help 2009
-> Previous interview with Roberta Keesick (July 2006).

No One Is Illegal-Montreal is part of a worldwide movement of resistance, fighting for justice and dignity, and the right to self-determination for migrants, refugees and indigenous people. Our campaign is in public confrontation with the Canadian state, denouncing and taking action to combat racial profiling, police brutality, detentions and deportations, as well as opposing the displacement and genocide of indigenous peoples on Turtle Island.

INFO: 514-848-7583 -- nooneisillegal@gmail.com
http://nooneisillegal-montreal.blogspot.com

Previous editions of No One Is Illegal Radio are linked HERE.

June 8: Protest Against the International Economic Forum of the Americas

2009-06-04T02:33:00.006-04:00

Annual Meeting of Criminal Profiteers
The International Economic Forum of the Americas

RALLY : Monday, June 8, 2009
From 11:30AM to 1:30PM
In front of the Hilton Bonaventure Hotel
(900 de la Gauchetière West – metro Bonaventure)

The godfather of this meeting of criminal profiteers:
DESMARAIS, Paul Junior : President of the Board and co-chair of Power Corporation

Other guests include:

ALBRIGHT, Madeleine : Ex-Secretary of State for the United States government

GURRIA, Angel : Secretary General of the Organization of Economic Development and Cooperation

ZOELLICK, Robert B. : President of the World Bank Group

STRAUSS-KAHN, Dominique : Director General of the International Monetary Fund (IMF)

URIBE VÉLEZ, Alvaro : President of Colombia
He governs a brutally repressive regime, one of the bloodiest in the Americas today

RALLY : Monday, June 8, 2009
From 11:30AM to 1:30PM
In front of the Hilton Bonaventure Hotel
(900 de la Gauchetière West – metro Bonaventure)

Organized by :
Committee of the Unemployed Montreal (CSE) : cse.mtl.centre@gmail.com
Project Accompaniment and Solidarity with Colombia (PASC) : www.pasc.ca

Supported by :
Tamil Community,
Tamil Action Committee,
Immigrant Workers Centre,
Centre for Philippine Concerns,
PINAY,
Lamour Textile Workers Committee,
No One Is Illegal-Montreal
Solidarité sans frontières / Solidarity Across Borders,
Réseau de la Commission populaire sur les mesures sécuritaires en immigration,
Bloquez l’Empire Montréal (BLEM),
Comité de coordinnation et d’action des femmes de diverses origines pour le 8 mars,
Tadamon,
Centre Social Autogéré/Autonomous Social Center,
COBP,
Organisation Populaire des Droits Sociaux (OPDS)
DIRA
Q-PIRG Concordia

We refuse to pay for their crisis !

This coming June 8 to 11, 2009, hundreds of the most influential political and economic leaders of the world are meeting in downtown Montreal. Under the banner of “Adapting to the New World Order”, these crooks will discuss the ongoing impoverishment of people across the globe, the continuing transfer of funds from public to private hands, and their feeding frenzy on the corpse of an economic system that only serves to enrich themselves.

While millions of people suffer the violence and disenfranchisement from an unprecedented economic, social and environmental crisis, these criminals organize meetings to maintain their power and the status quo. While thousands of homes are seized by banks that have been bailed out by taxpayers’money, workers everywhere are losing their jobs and pensions. People are starving and the suits only plan and organize to make sure they don’t lose one cent of their wealth, privilege, comfort and security.

The Desmarais', our own homegrown multi-billionaire family who have built their dynasty on telling us what to think and do for generations with their ‘Power Corporation’, boast of hosting this event, "the most important economic forum in the Americas."

Among the impressive list of reknown criminals is the notorious Alvaro Uribe Velez, President of Colombia, who is responsible for many crimes against humanity, and has close ties to brutal paramilitary forces. Uribe also heads the Colombian Army, which is accused of killing over 1000 civilians since 2003. Those who dare to criticize Uribe’s policies and the economic interests that back his repressive regime are often accused of “terrorism”, and are unjustly detained or assassinated. Uribe’s visit takes place precisely when the Canadian Parliament is about to ratify their Free Trade Agreement with the Colombian government. Ratifying this agreement means that Canadian MPs become accomplices to the crimes of a government that has been denounced internationally for their systematic violation of human rights.

These profiteers are rarely disturbed while they meet and plan the ongoing impoverishment and exploitation of working people everywhere. Their impunity can only last as long as we allow it. Denounce the impunity now !

June 16: Defending the Land (Native Friendship Center of Montreal)

2009-06-04T01:35:00.005-04:00

Struggles for self-determination & sovereignty at Six Nations & Akwesasne

Speakers include:
Jacqueline House from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory
AND
A member of the Traditional Men’s Council at Akwesasne

Since 2006, members of Six Nations of the Grand River Territory have reclaimed their land from property developers and the government, an ongoing Land Reclamation that continues to this day.

Currently, the Akwesasne Mohawk Community is united in resistance to the arming of Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) guards on their territory; community opposition has resulted in CBSA border agents leaving their posts at Akwesasne.

Join us for an evening of discussion and information about these struggles for indigenous self-determination and sovereignty on Turtle Island.

----------
TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 6:30PM
at the Native Friendship Center of Montreal
2001 St. Laurent Boulevard
(métro St-Laurent)
-----------

This event is FREE. Donations appreciated.
Wheelchair accessible.
Childcare available with 48 hours notice (tel: 514-848-7585).

Since 2006, members of Six Nations of the Grand River Territory in southwestern Ontario have reclaimed their land from property developers and the government. The Land Reclamation at Six Nations has been an inspiring example of decolonization, despite police and government attacks as well as the criminalization of protesters. Land reclamations on traditional Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy lands are ongoing.

Meanwhile, more recently, the Mohawk Community of Akwesasne continues to resist the imposition of armed border guards by the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA). On June 1st, CBSA were scheduled to carry sidearms, but community resistance resulted in the closing of the border by the Canadian government.

Come learn more about the continuing resistance at Six Nations and Akwesasne, from frontline community voices; speakers include:

-> Jacqueline House of the Lower Cayuga Turtle Clan, Six Nations of
the Grand River Territory
-> A member of the Traditional Men’s Council at Akwesasne.

The speakers will address ongoing efforts to decolonize their unceded land, and will offer the opportunity to refresh and reinforce links of solidarity and support. Come learn about how to support those who face criminalization for defending their land and the environment.

This event will also include updates about other ongoing indigenous sovereignty, solidarity and support efforts, including: the upcoming march and vigil (June 18) for Tiffany Morrison on the 3-year anniversary of her disappearance. Tiffany is a member of the Kahnawake Mohawk Community, and one of more than 500 missing, murdered or disappeared indigenous women in Canada.

Organized by the Indigenous Solidarity Committee of the People’s Global Action (PGA) Bloc & No One Is Illegal-Montreal.

INFO: 514-848-7583 – nooneisillegal@gmail.com

16 juin: La défense de la terre (Centre d'amitié autochtone de Montréal)

2009-06-04T01:15:00.011-04:00

Les luttes pour l'auto-détermination et la souverainté à Six Nations et Akwesasne

Présentations par:
Jacqueline House de Six Nations du territoire Grand River
et
Un membre du Conseil traditionnel des hommes à Akwesasne

photo par Sandra Cuffe

Depuis 2006, des membres de Six Nations du territoire de la Grand River réclament leur terres des développeurs et du gouvernement, une revendication territoriale qui continue jusqu'au présent.

Présentement, la communauté Mohawk d'Akwesasne est uni pour résister le droit aux armes des gardes de l'Agence des services frontaliers du Canada (ASFC) sur leur territoire. L'opposition communautaire a eu comme résultat l'abandon de leurs postes par les agents frontaliers de l'ASFC à Akwesasne.

Venez nous joindre pour une soirée d'information et de discussion au sujet de ses luttes pour l'auto-détermination autochtone et la souveraineté sur l'Île de la Tortue.

----------
Mardi, le 16 juin, 18h30
Centre d'amitié autochtone de Montréal
2001 boulevard St. Laurent
(métro St-Laurent)
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L'évènement est GRATUIT. Les dons sont appréciés.
Accessible au fauteuils roulants.
Garde d'enfants disponible avec 48 heures de préavis (tel: 514-848-7585).
Présentations en anglais, avec traduction chuchotée vers le français.

Organisé par le Comité de solidarité autochtone du Bloc Action mondial des peuples (AMP) et Personne n'est illégal - Montréal

INFO: 514-848-7583 – nooneisillegal@gmail.com

Résistance à Akwesasne contre les douaniers armés

2009-06-01T06:53:00.004-04:00

Une delegation des militantes de Montréal – incluant une membre de Personne n’est illégal-Montréal -- est présentement à Akwesasne (territoire Mohawk, à la frontière de l'Ontario, New York et Québec) comme témoins de la résistance communautaire contre les douaniers armés. Quelques articles expliquant la situation, principalement en anglais, mais aussi en français, avec des mises à jour de la situation, sont disponible sur le blogue de Personne n’est illégal ICI.

Akwesasne Updates: “No guns!” Mohawks vow to resist armed border guards

2009-06-01T06:28:00.018-04:00

UPDATED INFO: June 7, 2009 -- Click HERE.

“[The Canadian Border Service Agency] is a foreign oppressive force who occupies our sovereign community and territory. (They are) unwelcome, uninvited and now carrying firearms. For lack of a different description, that is considered by some an act of war.” – Larry King, member of the Akwesasne Mohawk Territory (quoted in the Ottawa Citizen, May 29, 2009)

[A delegation of three non-native Montreal activists, including a member of No One Is Illegal-Montreal, is currently at the site of protesters at the Kawehnoke Port of Entry (Cornwall Island) on the Mohawk Territory of Akwesasne. Native protestes at Akwesasne are welcoming allies to stand in solidarity, and to witness their efforts to resist the imposition of armed guards on Mohawk territory.

The No One Is Illegal-Montreal website will have updates directly from Akwesasne, as well as maintain a mainstream and alternative news compilation at this link. Read more below. ]

Update -- 7pm
Monday, June 1, 2009

As of 5pm, vehicles are being allowed to travel between Cornwall and Cornwall Island in Akwesasne. At this point, this is entirely local traffic. Some vehicles have been crossing from the "Canadian" side to the "American" side on the bridge, but not vice-versa. The situation at the camp remains calm.
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Update -- 1:40pm

Monday, June 1, 2009

Situation is calm at the site of the bridge. A press conference is scheduled for 2pm.

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Update – 5:35am
Monday, June 1, 2009

-- CBSA guards abandon posts
-- Seaway International Bridge is blocked to vehicular traffic by police
-- Protesters maintain presence at border crossing

Dawn is breaking on the Mohawk Territory of Akwesasne, where local residents have protested for months to oppose the arming of Canadian Borders Services Agency (CBSA) guards on their territory. More than 50 protesters are maintaining a presence near the Canadian customs building on Cornwall Island. There are at least five fires burning to keep demonstrators warm. Many more residents and supporters are expected to be on-site as the morning progresses.

According to residents of Akwesasne (as well as mainstream media reports), CBSA border agents abandoned their posts just before midnight, out of fear of reprisals from the community. CBSA agents were due to be armed at the Port of Cornwall crossing on June 1, a policy universally opposed and condemned by the Akwesasne Mohawk Community.

Vehicular traffic onto the Seaway International Bridge has been shut down by police on both sides of the border, although pedestrians are still being allowed to access the bridge.

The Mohawk territory of Akwesasne straddles the jurisdictions of Ontario, Quebec and New York State, and is a major international border crossing between Canada and the United States. CBSA guards began arming in 2007, and there are currently more than 800 armed CBSA guards across Canada. The entire CBSA aims to be armed, in stages, by 2016. The CBSA announced that their agents at the Port of Cornwall would be armed by June 1 of this year.

SELECTED NEWS & INFORMATION COMPILATION

June 1, 2009

Cornwall Standard-Freeholder: U.S.-Canada border closed by Akwesasne protest of guns at crossing; Border guards leave posts for U.S.

Ottawa Citizen: Armed border guards abandon posts on First Nation

Radio-Canada: Les Mohawks ne décolèrent pas

May 30, 2009

Mohawk Nation News (MNN): Akwesasne Unity March

May 29, 2009

Ottawa Citizen: Plan to arm borders guards an “act of war”

Mohawk Nation News (MNN): UN asked to stop guns at Akwesasne border

May 28, 2009

Mohawk Nation News (MNN): There will be no guns! “You are on Indian Land”

19 mai, 2009

Radio-Canada: Forte opposition aux douaniers armés

May 12, 2009

Mohawk Nation News (MNN): 41-year legacy of Mohawk resistance at Akwesasne border

May 9, 2009

Canadian Border Services Agency: CBSA officers will begin carrying duty firearms on June 1, 2009, at the Port of Cornwall

9 mai 2009

Agence des services frontaliers du Canada: Les agents de l'ASFC du poste frontalier de Cornwall seront dotés d'armes à feu de service à compter du 1er juin 2009

May 3, 2009

Mohawk Nation News (MNN): Armed Border Guards at Akwesasne?

Updates from the Autonomous Social Center

2009-06-01T04:44:00.003-04:00

-> Demonstration in front of the southwest borough offices -- TUESDAY, JUNE 2 at 6pm -- 815 Bel-Air, near métro Lionel-Groulx

There will be a demonstration this Tuesday, June 2 at 6pm in front of the southwest borough offices at 815 Bel-Air, near Lionel-Groulx métro. It looks as if the consultations on the luxury condo development at 2985 St-Patrick has been cancelled in the aftermath of our re-appropriation. Let’s not stay silent! More info, in French, linked HERE.

-> To all groups who support, or would like to support, the Autonomous Social Center:

You are being asked to write letters of support to newspapers, to distribute the link to the recent press release (below), mobilize your members, sign the public declaration of support and more. and more. You are also encouraged to attend the demonstration this coming Tuesday (see details above). Read the original release (in French) HERE.

-> Press Release: BRUTAL EVICTION AT THE AUTONOMOUS SOCIAL CENTER: the riot squad pepper sprays the squatters.

Read the complete release HERE.

Mises-à-jour du Centre social autogéré

2009-06-01T04:38:00.006-04:00

-> Manifestation devant la mairie d'arrondissement
MARDI 2 JUIN, 18h -- 815 Bel-Air, près du métro Lionel-Groulx

-> À tous les groupes qui appuient le CSA ou qui voudraient nous appuyer : votre rôle maintenant !

-> Communiqué de presse: EVICTION BRUTALE DU CENTRE SOCIAL AUTOGÉRÉ : l’anti-émeute gaze les squatteur s

Le Centre Social Autogéré | Autonomous Social Center

2009-05-28T08:19:00.005-04:00

The Autonomous Social Center opens this Friday, May 29. More info HERE. Endorsed by No One Is Illegal-Montreal.

Le Centre social autogéré commence ce vendredi le 29 mai. Plus d'infos ICI. Endossé par Personne n'est illégal-Montréal.

5/5: Police partout, justice nulle part ... (NOII-Montreal Poster Series)

2009-05-28T00:52:00.002-04:00

4/5: Respect the two-row wampum ... (NOII-Montreal Poster Series)

2009-05-28T00:47:00.003-04:00

3/5: Viva viva intifada ... (NOII-Montreal Poster Series)

2009-05-28T00:45:00.001-04:00