I trust this will help put to rest the stubborn fairytale of "First Nations stewardship" of natural resources.
More than 30 caribou were slaughtered in a protest that about 70 Quebec Innu hunters staged near Churchill Falls last week. Many of the animals are believed to be from the endangered Red Wine herd, which had fewer than 100 animals last year.The hunters were protesting against the seizure of guns, equipment and 32 caribou carcasses by provincial conservation officers who said the natives had killed the animals in an area where hunting is banned to save the Red Wine herd.
No one familiar with Indian hunting and fishing practices in the Western provinces will be the least surprised.
Though, I'm sure there will be plenty of NDP and like types who will split the difference between defending First Nations and defending the environment, and weasel out a way to blame someone white and European.
Well, while the culling of the caribou herd was unhelpful, it is necessary to understand the Innus' actions as a result of the despair and sense of hopelessness they feel. I ask you: Who among us would not have done the same, given the circumstances? I know I would have, except with nunchucks.
Anyway, the Canadian government should immediately open a dialogue with the hunters, to begin the crucial work of healing the wounds caused by centuries of oppression, so that this tragic accident doesn't happen again.
I was homeless once. If you want to talk about desperating and hopelessness, I was there. I don't recall slaughtering any stray animals to protest my situation, however.
I suggest the Innu get off their asses and look within if they want to improve their lot in life - no one else can do it for them.
What, did I need to put sarcasm tags in?