Six Nations Land Rights

[Kanenhstaton June23Update]

"We are here until the land is back in title to the original titleholders and according to the original agreement."

Here is an update by Hazel Hill from KANENHSTATON, the Six Nations land reclamation site near Caledonia, Ontario.
( Background: www.turtleisland.org/news/news-sixnations.htm )

June 23, 2006

Sago from Grand River!

I thought I'd better write and let you know that we're still here. A lot has been happening since the barricades came down, most of it internal and it has kept us busy! The biggest thing is that the people are still maintaining our position on the land, and that in spite of propoganda, we're not re-routing Caledonia's water, we haven't got bunkers built, ammunition stored, nor are we toting guns around and terrorizing the citizens of Caledonia.

It is very distressing to hear such things because all along we have tried our best to remain peaceful, even in the face of racial descrimination and acts of hate crimes. We have continued to act in good faith, even when we have been met with politicians who know only ultimatums and not nation to nation dialogue, and we continue to carry the spirit of truth and justice for Creation as well as upholding our responsibilities to our Law, our Land and our People, even though judge marshall is still asking why his order to have the injunction enforced and have our people removed from the site is not being adhered to. Today, Premier McGuinty suggested that since the province has agreed in principal to purchase the land from Henco and to hold the land in trust, that we should all go home now. Perhaps someone out there should remind Mr. McGuinty about Kanesetake and how they were made a lot of promises including having the land put in trust, but it still has not resolved the situation nor have they followed through on any of their promises. Guess we know who was paying attention and who
wasn't because the position of the people is exactly as it was the day we
came onto the site, we are here until the land is back in title to the
original titleholders and according to the original agreement.

Land held in trust is no different than calling it Crown land, and as we've politely pointed out several times, the land to which we hold title, the crown has no jurisdiction over. And if you're paying attention to the Canadian parliament as it nears its summer recess, the opposition party is really laying it on hard about how the government must do something about the situation in Caledonia. Too bad they're not standing there reminding the government of its' responsibilities to the Two Row and the Silver Covenant Chain, or even their own Constitution Act and British North American Act. No, they're standing there suggesting that the government has to do something to remove us from our homelands because the citizens of Caledonia are living in fear, they can't sleep at night, they can't even barbeque in their backyards! I think all politicians should be required to have common sense before being allowed to run in an election and before standing in their legislation commenting about something that they have no knowledge of other than gossip! Especially one who is suppose to be representing not only Caledonia, but also those at Six Nations who choose to vote in their system. First of all, they need to stand around in some of those people's backyards, bring the steaks and barbeque for them because they will see for themselves that we are not bothering anyone.

The children are not afraid to play outside in the school yard because they continually laugh and play and wave at our people on the site. When the Frisbee comes across the fence, we don't hold it hostage, we give it back! They should also have been there on the Friday night when the good law abiding citizens of Caledonia held their rally and besides drinking publically and throwing their empties at us (thanks by the way, the 10 cents a bottle helps), and throwing stones at us while they were shouting racist remarks about us and our welfare cheques, how the only good Indian is a dead Indian, and how they were gonna go home and get their shot gun. Better yet, did anyone bother to contact the OPP and ask about the reported incidents of continuous gun fire and reports of their fences being burned. If they had, they would have learned as one of our local newspaper reporters had that there were no such incidents. Or perhaps they could talk to the principal of the school as did that same reporter and they would have learned that the children are not afraid of us and that they don't have to hide under their desks or table to eat their lunch. And as far as gun fire, the only sounds representing gun fire is the times that fire crackers were being shot off around the May 24 weekend, or when fireworks were being shot directly at us the night the first barricade was taken down. Or maybe I should have just forwarded parliament a copy of the minutes of the Caledonia Citizens Alliance group meeting where they discussed arming themselves and that the opp had given them the nod of approval (which according to the OPP is utter nonsense) or how they were going to use their children as a cover when they attended their next rally and that their strategy was to "create chaos, continually dial 911 and rush toward the fence but do not cross the police line". Who does this? And yet they call us lawless and a militant faction.

Did anyone ever wonder why, when the footage is shown on TV during those violent "stand-offs" , that the OPP are always facing the Caledonia people and not the Onkwehonweh? It's because that is where the violence is coming from. The aggressive behaviour and attempts to incite violence is coming from their people not ours. And yet we're pegged as the "terrorists" in the media. Somebody somewhere is working really hard to disrupt the Peace but it certainly isn't us! And to top it all off, they are being rewarded for their behaviour. Canada is handing out millions of dollars to Caledonia for their loss of business due to the barricades. Maybe they should just check the stats of how many Six Nations people are no longer giving their business to Caledonia because of the racist attitudes that have grown deeper and more openly in the last 100 day's and they'd realize that it isn't the barricades that has decreased their sales, it is their own attitude toward our people. And if that wasn't enough, they had to turn on the children and barricade them out of the arena. Talk about shooting oneself in the foot.

They created the situation they are in, and now are demanding compensation for it! And of course the government obliges. Guess it's better to keep pouring money into racial discrimination than it is to actually pay their debt to the Six Nations.

As long as they keep rewarding those behaviours they won't actually have to deal with the real issue, which is the land and our sovereignty. The way one fellow put it, it's like dealing with a "bad little kid". You don't
reward bad behaviour by giving them candy because when that's all gone,
they're gonna want more and their behaviour is going to get worse!

With respect to the 7 people charged, two so far have been arrested and
released. The Confederacy Council is still conducting it's investigation
with respect to the alleged illegal activities and during that process the
individuals are still required to stay off of the site. What I want to know
is, how come our people are being tried twice for the same crime? They are being held accountable to our traditional government as required by our Law, the Kaierenekowah, but are also being forced through the Canadian justice system, which we've already established has no jurisdiction over our people.

And the more our investigation uncovers, the more I am convinced that it was a big set up! Can't give details till we've gathered all evidence but the TRUTH always reveals itself if only we look.

On a lighter note, the Concert held at Chiefswood Park on the 16th of June
in support of the land reclamation was an overwhelming success. I gotta
give a big Nya Weh to David and Kimberley Maracle, as well as Tuesday
Johnson and TAP Resources and all of the other volunteers who worked so hard to make this happen.

To all of the artists who donated their time and shared their music, artwork and other talents to make this concert such a great experience I can't thank you enough!!!!!!!!! We haven't got a total yet as far as how much the concert raised for the reclamation site, but as soon as we do, I will let everyone know. Everyone had a great time.............I even got to sing with my sister ElizaBeth and we didn't clear out the park so I guess we did good! But the most important part is that it was FUN! Everyone had a good time and an awesome experience. Already David and Kimberley have been approached as to when the next one is going to be. Even I can't wait! Good Work Everyone!

Well, as far as things at the reclamation site, we are continuing with our
cultural examination of the land as far as the possibility of burial grounds. A well known archaeologist and friend of mine, Proffessor Bill Noble and his wife Jacquie paid us a visit at the site. The sad news is that the archaeological study that was conducted on behalf of Henco, quite possibly destroyed crucial evidence to the existence of village sites and other points of interest to our people. However, they did provide us with an 8 page report which we immediately sent to Premier McGuinty outlining several areas of their law which could have been broken during this archaeological study and have asked that it be forwarded to the appropriate ministries to be dealt with according to their laws. Henco is ultimately responsible and needs to be accountable for those inconsistencies before any money is paid to him. Again, something that should have been monitored but
conveniently ignored.

So, I guess I've updated enough tonight. It's getting late and I'm a bit
tired. Hopefully I will have other news to report soon so that you won't
have to wonder if I got buried in those bunkers! Take care,

In Love, Light and Peace,

Hazel

[Six Nations Peace Message]

July 1, 2006

Canada Day Message of Peace from KANENHSTATON / Six Nations Reclamation Site . . .

Hazel Hill's Update ( edited version here)

Today is planned to be alot of activity at the reclamation site. The people have planned a potluck, games and a pig roast for later this evening to keep the spirit of peace, friendship and family atmosphere at the site.

There was much concern with the big booze party in Caledonia last night beginning their Canada day celebrations, but to my knowledge, there were no problems coming into the site. We left around 11:30 pm. and so far, I've had no reports of any situations.

We've had a busy week starting with a visit from Bill Wilson, candidate for Grand Chief of the AFN. He was accompanied by Larry Sault and was given a tour of the site by myself and others of the Six Nations. We had a good visit and the support was much appreciated.

Also this week the federal and provincial delegates came and toured the site. Jane Stewart, Barbara McDougal, Ron Doering and a few others (sorry, don't remember all the names) were given a tour of the grounds to help them see that the gossip and rumours that are being spread around caledonia and in their local newspapers, are just that, gossip and rumours.

They were able to see for themselves that there are no bunkers, missle launches, guns or any other weapons of war that we have been accused of having. They left quite pleased by what they saw, and have agreed to let it be known through the media that we are a peaceful people, that our presence there is that of peace, and that the intent is not to bring hostility toward our neighbours, but to remind Canada that it has a resonsiblity to uphold the treaties, recognize our sovereignty, and begin dealing with our traditional council on a nation to nation level as is required according to our relationship with the crown.

Many people, including high profile Native leaders, have made attempts to destroy that relationship by making public statements that the Confederacy Council does not represent the people, that there are divisions and factions who do not support, or who believe the Confederacy does not speak for them. They are playing right into the governments attempts to create those divisions so that they will not have to deal with the real issue's of concern including the land. Who knows, maybe that is the intent.

It has been the history of our people that when anything like this happens, there will always be people who don't agree or who try to undermine the good that is happening, even going so far as accepting money to create those divisions.

However, it is our position that we will continue. The Confederacy council, who carry the responsibility of protecting and upholding those treaties, have an obligation of ensuring that no harm or hindrance comes to them. That includes from within.

The Canadian government has been reminded of that. Talks will resume on Thursday, and are continuing toward a peaceful resolution of the land in question........the outcome of which, from our perspective, will be to have the land returned to the Six Nations, according to the original agreements.

The people will maintain a presence on the site until this happens. The Caledonia Citizens Alliance thinks differently. They believe that they have a say in what happens to this land, and they have threatened the government that it should not return the land to Six Nations as they feel it gives us a ticket to their whole town.

They've even passed a motion in their council that they are going to expand the borders of their town and are continuing on plans of development of other lands which fall within the jurisdiction of the Haldimand Tract and the Six Nations . . . The Six Nations people have a legitimate claim, and will continue on a peaceful path to bring awareness to the world of how corrupt the government has been with respect to the sale of lands to which they hold no title, all along the Grand River . . .

So, I'll be off to the site now, to enjoy the beauty of this day. The light and love of Creation is singing its song and adding strength to our people. Nya Weh!

Hazel
thebasketcase@on.aibn.com

[Support OPP Commissioner]

Gwen Boniface will be remembered for her efforts to improve O.P.P./Aboriginal relations . . .

News and Comment
by Tehaliwaskenhas
Bob Kennedy, Oneida
Copyright
Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

July 29, 2006

Gone far away but not forgotten.

Gwen Boniface, the O.P.P. Commissioner whose sensitivity and sensibility likely prevented a bloodbath in Caledonia, suddenly resigned this week.

This is a woman who became the first female commissioner of the macho male dominated police force. She is the recipient of the Order of Ontario for her outstanding contributions to the development of First Nations Policing Services.

First Nations leaders salute her efforts to build bridges with Aboriginal peoples and supported her non-confrontational approach by Ontario Provincial Police at the scene of the land dispute in Caledonia.

Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief John Beaucage stated recently, "We applaud OPP Commissioner Gwen Boniface's courageous and diplomatic approach. She has the utmost confidence and support of First Nations leadership. It is evident that the OPP have learned from their past mistakes and Commissioner Boniface wants to ensure those mistakes are not repeated".

But Boniface has been under increasing political pressure from people like Mayor Marie Trainer who blamed her for the chaos in Caledonia. She is quoted as saying, "The native population have been feeling they can do anything, anytime, anywhere to anyone and the police will only watch".

This month, Boniface defended the force's strategy to deal with Six Nations protestors. She spoke out because Caledonia residents were publicly critical, claiming the police treated Natives differently than they would others. Some police officers also said they opposed the lack of response to the protestors at Douglas Creek Estates on the Six Nations Land Reclamation Site. She explained she did not order her police to do anything different than normal policy.

To Gwen Boniface we say, thanks for your efforts to avert violence and police confrontation with our brothers and sisters. We want you to know we also understand you are a scapegoat.

A Scapegoat - a goat that was driven off into the wilderness as part of Jewish ceremonies in ancient Israel. Today the word also refers to someone blamed for misfortunes, often as a way of distracting attention from the real causes.

Gwen Boniface is not headed for the wilderness. She is taking over leadership of the National Police Force in Ireland.

- - - - - - -

Note from the Editor of Turtle Island Native Network.

Recently the O.P.P. Commissioner publicly defended the force's strategy to deal with Six Nations protestors at Caledonia. She spoke out because local Caledonia residents have been publicly critical, claiming the police treated Natives differently than they would others. Some police officers have also said they opposed the lack of response to the protestors at Douglas Creek Estates on the Six Nations Land Reclamation Site.

OPP Commissioner Gwen Boniface stated she did not order her police to do anything different than normal policy, and that there was no political direction from Queens Park and the provincial government.

- - - - - - -

JULY 12, 2006

First Nations support OPP Commissioner

First Nations in Ontario are supporting the non-confrontational approach by Ontario Provincial Police at the scene of the land claim dispute in Caledonia.

"We applaud OPP Commissioner Gwen Boniface's courageous and diplomatic approach. She has the utmost confidence and support of First Nations leadership," said Grand Council Chief John Beaucage, leader of the 42 member First Nations of the Anishinabek Nation. "It is evident that the OPP have learned from their past mistakes and Commissioner Boniface wants to ensure those mistakes are not repeated."

Beaucage was speaking from the annual general meeting of the Assembly of First Nations in Vancouver. Chiefs attending the Assembly have expressed concern over published criticisms of Commissioner Boniface's response to the Caledonia situation and suggestions that she should resign.

"The Ontario Provincial Police are acting as true 'peace officers' in their role at Caledonia," said Beaucage. "There is great honour in showing restraint and making good decisions. Being a peacekeeper shouldn't be considered by anyone to be shameful, a sign of weakness or supporting lawlessness."

"Unfortunately, there is a small element of society that would advocate police violence and confrontation in situations involving First Nations land rights," said the Grand Council Chief. "We have all seen the tragic results of this approach, most recently at Ipperwash in 1995."

"Negotiation and level-headedness is the right way to resolve these types of disagreements," said Beaucage. "The cost of conflict is becoming too high to pay."

The Anishinabek Nation incorporated the Union of Ontario Indians (UOI) as its secretariat in 1949. The UOI is a political advocate for 42 member First Nations across Ontario . The Union of Ontario Indians is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact.

- 30 -

For more information contact: Bob Goulais
Cell: (705) 498-5250
E-mail: goubob@anishinabek.ca

[Learning From The Past]

Subject: Update from Grand River July 12, 2006

Sago from Grand River!

Sorry to have taken so long to touch base, it has been a quiet couple of weeks since I last updated and things remain very calm and peaceful at the reclamation site.

We worked throughout the weekend cleaning up the front gate, removing the steel structure that blocked the main entrance and opened it up again, the way that it was when the land reclamation first began on February 28th. It was done in a gesture of peace and goodwill.

A message to all that we are on the land in peace, we have nothing to hide, and welcome anyone who wishes to come to the site with a good mind, an open mind, and who's intentions are to gain an understanding of the truth with respect to the history of the our people.

It was done in support of our Confederacy Council and for our delegates who have been mandated to deal with the land, to ensure that the Crowns representatives in the Federal and Provincial government understand that we are United, that we are ONE, and that we work and support one and other.

It was done to remove any remaining "barriers" that could be used as a tool or excuse to stall the negotiation process because we are at the table ready and willing to provide the Truth and we ask only the same from the Crown.

Our presence on the land is minimal, and yet some of the people within the Caledonia citizens alliance still find it to be too much. They would prefer if we just went home and that they didn't have to look at us anymore. Apparantly Judge Marshall feels the same way. Even though Henco has been bought out, the injunction is no longer an issue, Mr. Marshall is now insisting that the contempt of court orders be followed through on. It is unfortunate throughout all of this that people are unable to look at the situation as it is....a political issue that is deserving of attention and respect as it has been ignored and pushed to the side for generations in hopes that it would go away.

It is the same message that is being presented today...... ' Just go away, we won't have to look at you anymore, and we can put all of this behind us'.

Unfortunately, that is the mentality and attitude that has gotten us to the position that we are in today. Our people have been a patient people. We have tolerated generations of abuse and yet we have continued to uphold the Peace.

The position of our people is not new, nor is it something that hasn't been done before, Just yesterday ( July 11th) was the 16th anniversay of the day that the army surrounded our people at Kanesetake. Each and every one of us can recall our own feelings of that moment in time and how it impacted us. It is from those times in our life that as unbelieveable and horrible that situation was, we can take that negative and turn it into a positive and learn from it.

So when people ask why, if the government has bought out Henco, don't we just leave the land and go home; it is that lesson in our history that we look to and remind the world that it is for that very reason why we cannot leave the land. We have committed to remaining on the land until it has been returned to our people according to those original agreements. Until then, it is only a promise, and that history, even as recent as 1990, has proven time and time again that promises mean nothing.

It is an issue of Sovereignty that runs far deeper than a simple issue of a land claim, and one that reaches deep into the hearts and souls of our people. It is the very essence of who we are, and the strength that comes from believing in the Kaienerekowah, and upholding our responsibilities to our Great Law.

We would be negligent if we did nothing to ensure that our future generations didn't have the same strong foundation that our ancestors laid out for us.

And tonight I am thankful to all of those grandfathers and grandmothers who did just that. To our people who have carried forward our languages and ceremonies and have kept the spirit of the Onkwehonweh people alive. Who have lived their lives committed to this so that those of us who are on this earth today can give thanks and enjoy those things that our ancestors fought so hard to keep alive. For our people who have endured the genocidal practices of colonialism and how today, we can still stand here, knowing who we are as a people.

How that fills each and every one of us with pride and that inner strength and knowing that in spite of everything, we are still here. We are not just a chapter in the history book, but we are a living breathing Nation of people who's spirit is as strong today, as it was all of those centuries ago when that message of peace was given as a reminder to our people, and to those original Five Nations who were given that responsibility to uphold that Peace for all the Onkwehonweh Nations of the World.

Tonight is a night for reflection. A time for thanksgiving. A time to honour and respect not only our ancestors who've kept our teachings alive, but to all of our people who continue with that today.

I am but one small voice in Creation who acknowledges each and every one of you who I admire and appreciate and deeply respect. I say Nya Wah Kowah!, for without you, we would not be here, and we could not stand as strong as we do today. In the words of one of our supporters from Denmark "They can bind us hands and feet, but our spirit cannot be bound" Isn't that the TRUTH!!!!

In Love Light & Peace,
Hazel E. Hill
thebasketcase@on.aibn.com

[Land Reclamation Update]

Update from Hazel Hill atthe Six Nations Land Reclamation Site

Good Evening from Grand River!

July 18, 2006

I hope everyone is well and in good spirits tonight.

Just to qualm the nerves of everyone, the group travelling back from Grassy Narrows have all arrived home safe and sound. There was a bit of trouble with a few of our people being charged, some have to report back for court dates, however, to squash the gossip, Neecha is well, looks great, and while I didn't get to talk to her personally today, I have been assured by her travelling companions that alot of the gossip out there right now is NOT factual, and that it is very personal to her and when I get a chance to speak directly to her, if she has an update, I will forward it.

But just to let everyone know they are doing good, and glad to be home. I'm not sure of all what is being said, but I can assure you that to my knowledge they have not been beaten, and they arrived back home early this morning smiling, happy, a bit tired, but they all were looking good.

Buffy Saint-Marie stopped by this past Friday before her performance in Hamilton Ont. to show her support of the reclamation, and to say hi to everyone at the site. It was a short but good visit. A friend of mine and I got to go and see her show later on that night and her music and her message is very strong and powerful. I was very honoured to have been able to see her perform. We kind of teased a bit that my earliest memories were that of her on Sesame Street and this was my first time seeing her live, so i was thrilled to be there. It is obvious that Buffy's life has been dedicated to making music and writing songs that echoe the actions of not only things like this reclamation, but also the injustices against PEACE throughout the world. Her support of the Haudenesonne Confederacy, and the Onkwehonweh people's struggle is very deep and respectful. Nya Weh to Buffy for her support, but also for sharing her music and message to the world as that is one way to educate about our struggle.

Education is one of the goals of the people on the site at present and is also one of the conditions that the Clanmothers put on the table for negotiations. It is time that Canada began educating its people as to the truth not only of the Six Nations, but of all the Onkwehonweh people and the real history of how Canada was established, and exactly who's money and resources have been building this country. Perhaps the truth will help those people understand that it is not our people who are a drain on their society, and it is not their tax dollars that keep us, it is their tax dollars that keep feeding the lies of the crown and the building of its false empire. Currently at the site, we have a number of people working directly with supporters from Caledonia and they are working hard at trying to educate people as to the history of the Six Nations as well as Caledonia.

One goal that we have been talking about is to get an information building going directly on the site that will serve as an education facility. An education in peace, maybe even have great law teachings that will help spread that message of peace. I don't know. Maybe some of you have good ideas that you'd like to share.

In the meantime, CommUNITY Friends meet regularly to share ideas and concerns. This helps squash some of the rumours from the citizen alliance group, and it also shows the willingness of people from both of our communities to work at rebuilding relationships rather than allowing the rumour mill to fester the racism and ignorance of a few.

Everything at the site has been quiet.

There is a bit of concern with the upcoming court date scheduled by Justice Marshall to deal with his "contempt of court" orders, and it is really unknown as to what it is that he is going to suggest, but the people on the site remain strong and unified and the position has not changed. We are on the land until the title has been returned to Six Nations. So far, that has not been done.

The negotiating team took this past week off, so they will begin talks again this Thursday. Hopefully, now that the front gate is opened and clear, and people are feeling a bit more like they did when we first started the reclamation in February, things will continue on in a steady pace without interruptions.

Many people have been stopping by again and asking questions, and seeing for themselves that the people at the land reclamation are not there to harm anyone. They have only seen what the media has shown, and that by no means can capture the full message in the few seconds that it portrays, even IF they are honestly trying! The people that have stopped are always glad that they did and that they leave with a better understanding as to the truth of our history as well as why we are in this situation. They see for themselves that we are sitting there in a peaceful and symbolic way of making our position clear to the crown/canada, and that hopefully, it will be the last time our people have to go through anything like this.

The message to Canada is that it must now deal with the issue of our land and the trust that they have never been accountable for, it must honour our treaties, accept responsibility for its own abuses against our people, deal with the theft of our land and resources, and begin righting the wrongs in an acceptable time frame. The lands claim process designed by the government through the department of indian affairs is a scam. The whole process is designed not to protect our interest in the land, but to continue to sell land that they deem "surplus crown land" (meaning any land that belongs to our people that they want or can use/sell) and no where in that process is it ever intended to return land, they only want to get out the cheque book and usually that is AFTER development. This is no longer acceptable and must be stopped! Our people are connected to the earth, not to the dollar; and it is time the Crown realized that as well.

You know, its hard to explain what is happening when there isn't alot going on. As I write I'm smiling thinking about the people at the site, and how they've been enduring the heat trying to stay cool. I got to the site Saturday afternoon with a couple of women from the Cultural Survival magazine and I was barely out of the van when I was drenched with water from our helpers. I laughed because the two women who were with me hightailed it to the kitchen where they knew they wouldn't get soaked. It wasn't just water balloons either, they had pitchers of water and were having fun. There was no mercy for anyone, we all got hit, but there was lots of laughs. it kinda gives you an idea of what the atmosphere is like around there right now anyway. It is peaceful, it's family, it's fun. Hopefully, things will stay that way. That is our intent anyway. So, I'm gonna leave you with those good thoughts tonight. Keep smiling!

In love, light and peace,

Hazel
thebasketcase@on.aibn.com

[Six Nations Talks Evolve]

Haudenosaunee/Six Nations-Canada-Ontario
Main Negotiation Table Update
New Phase Of Negotiations Begins With The Formation Of Side Tables

OHSWEKEN, ON, July 27, 2006

At the meeting of the Haudenosaunee/Six Nations-Canada-Ontario Main Negotiation Table held today, the parties confirmed the establishment of four Side Tables to deal with specific issues.

The four Side Tables have been set up to assist in dealing with priorities agreed to by all the parties at the Main Negotiation Table. All Side Tables have since met and have had their terms of reference confirmed by the Main Table today.

The Side Tables will deal with specific matters and may also consider other matters related to their mandates.

- The Archeology and Appearance of the Douglas Creek Lands Side Table will ascertain whether human remains exist on the site and explore options for the improvement of the appearance of the land;

- The Douglas Creek Plank Road Lands Resolution Side Table will provide resolution options of the issues associated with the Douglas Creek, Plank Road lands including but not limited to possession, use and development;

- The Education Side Table will develop educational, promotional, and public awareness strategies regarding Haudenosaunee traditions, languages, history and culture and includes elements within the pre-school, elementary, secondary, post secondary which will be targeted at students, general public, and government officials within and outside of the Six Nations community;

- The Consultation Issues Side Table will address consultation issues, which may include but are not limited to, accommodation, compensation and benefits related to development and impacts upon Haudenosaunee/Six Nations land.

Chief Allen MacNaughton of the Haudenosaunee noted, "The formation of
four Side Tables signals a new phase in the negotiation process. The Side
Tables will provide the Main Negotiation Table with advice and counsel on how to manage these specific priorities."

"The establishment of the Side Tables is a step forward in the negotiation process," said Barbara McDougall, Special Representative for Canada. "This will allow us to move forward to consensus on these issues."

"The Main Negotiation Table has been working diligently towards a
resolution of the issues and the development of the Side Tables is a milestone in the negotiation process," said Jane Stewart, Special Representative for Ontario.

The parties at the Main Negotiation Table continue to make progress in
developing the processes that will be used to involve the local communities in consultations.

Working meetings among all parties continue.

For further information: April Powless, Haudenosaunee/Six Nations Media
Contact, (519) 717-3921; Rosemary Sampson, Ontario Secretariat for Aboriginal Affairs, (416) 326-4780; Media Relations, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, (819) 953-1160

[Six Nations TalksMust End]

The Ontario Conservatives were in power when the Ipperwash crisis was mishandled and resulted in the shooting death of Dudley George.

We can be thankful they are not in power and in charge of addressing Six Nations issues.

John Tory, a Mike Harris 'Wanna be', is demanding the negotiations (which by the way are making progress) between Six Nations, Canada and Ontario halted.

July 31, 2006
FIVE MONTHS OF DISRESPECT AND LAWLESSNESS MUST STOP

Progressive Conservative Party Leader John Tory today called on Dalton McGuinty to start upholding the rule of law in Caledonia and act to protect residents here and across Ontario.

“Ontarians want to know their government is on their side to keep them safe,” said Tory. “Dalton McGuinty should be acting to do everything possible to swiftly and completely return the rule of law to Caledonia and send a message that the law must be obeyed everywhere in this province, by everybody.”

Tory visited Caledonia today to speak to residents about the ongoing occupation and continued lawlessness, which have now gone on for over five months. It is the fifth time Tory has visited Caledonia since the occupation began. During the same period, Dalton McGuinty and his government have basically ignored this major law and order issue, hoping it would go away. The Minister in charge of Community Safety even said last week “There really isn’t an occupation”. After Tory’s visit today, he strongly disagreed.

Haldimand-Norfolk-Brant MPP Toby Barrett said: “People in Caledonia are worried for their safety. The occupation continues, court orders are being ignored and laws are being broken, Dalton McGuinty doesn’t seem to be concerned about it. This is a huge issue that has ramifications for other land claims across the province and it’s time for Dalton McGuinty to act.”

“This land occupation and the disrespect for the law must stop in order for negotiations to successfully proceed,” Tory said. “There should be no occupation by anyone, no lawless behaviour by anyone, and no defiance of court orders by anyone.”

Tory added: “I want to add my voice today to Justice David Marshall’s and strongly urge all parties to respect the law and our courts. Dalton McGuinty should stop negotiations until the occupied land is vacated, wanted suspects are turned into the police and all unlawful conduct ceases in all corners of this community. This disrespect for the rule of law wouldn’t be tolerated in Toronto or Ottawa or London, so there is no reason why it should be tolerated it in Caledonia.”

- - - - - - -

July 26, 2006
MCGUINTY LIBERALS OUT OF TOUCH ON CALEDONIA

Dalton McGuinty and his Minister of Community Safety are clearly out of touch when it comes to the ongoing occupation in Caledonia, Progressive Conservative Party Leader John Tory said today.

“The McGuinty Liberals are making a foolish attempt to smokescreen the fact that after six months of occupation, nothing has changed,” said Tory. “No matter how you cut it the land in Caledonia is still occupied and the town is still on edge. Any comments made to the contrary are simply inaccurate and show just how out of touch Dalton McGuinty and his Minister of Community Safety are in reality.”

At a photo-op today in Hamilton Minister Kwinter told media “there was no occupation in Caledonia other than a symbolic one”. (Canadian Press, July 26,2006) His comments have upset Caledonia residents. Six Nations members have been occupying the development site since February. In June the McGuinty Liberals bought the land from the local developers for millions of dollars, terms, which have not yet been fully disclosed, yet those occupying the land still have not left.

Neither Dalton McGuinty nor any of the members of his government have gone down to Caledonia since the occupation began.

“Minister Kwinter could have driven to Caledonia in about 20 minutes today,” said Toby Barrett, MPP for Haldiman-Norfolk-Brant. “He would then see the occupation is real - not symbolic. On May 16, I invited Minister Kwinter to come to Caledonia and see the situation for himself. If he had actually been to Caledonia or Six Nations, he would know that the site remains occupied.”

“I have been to Caledonia four times since the occupation began,” said Tory. “I attended a church service there just two weeks ago and I can say without a doubt that the land is still very much occupied and the town is still on edge. I suggest that Dalton McGuinty and Minister Kwinter take a trip down to Caledonia and ask the people living there, or the Six Nations members, or perhaps Judge Marshall if the occupation is still going on and see what they say. Beyond being out of touch and trying to mislead the public as to what is really going on at Caledonia, Mr. McGuinty and his ministers continue to ignore the crucial importance of upholding the rule of law anywhere and everywhere in Ontario, one of their most important responsibilities"

- - - - - - -

June 14, 2006
MCGUINTY MUST ENSURE RULE OF LAW IS UPHELD IN CALEDONIA

It’s time for Dalton McGuinty to act like a real leader by adhering to his own conditions with regard to Caledonia and ensuring that the rule of law prevails, Progressive Conservative Party Leader John Tory said today.

“Dalton McGuinty’s handling of the situation in Caledonia is a complete farce,” said Tory. “He spent the first 100 days of this conflict with his head in the sand, hoping the issue would go away. We finally saw some action from him on Monday when he said that he would halt negations until his conditions were met. Yet two days later, warrants are still outstanding and Mr. McGuinty seems to have completely disregarded his own conditions. What kind of signal does that send of the people of Ontario?”

Tory added: “Mr. McGuinty’s lack of leadership is embarrassing. His actions, or lack thereof offer no consolation to frightened Caledonia residents. How can anyone trust him when he is willing to return to the negotiating table without even living up to his own conditions, a mere two days after making them?”

Tory’s questions came in response to the announcement yesterday that negotiations in Caledonia would resume on Thursday. The statement came just two days after McGuinty said that he would not “continue negotiations until two important conditions [were] met: First of all, the barricades must come down, and they must stay down; and secondly, … the leadership… co-operate in any way with the Ontario Provincial Police so that they might apprehend the individuals involved.” (Hansard, June 12, 2006) To date only part of the first condition has been met and reports indicate that the Six Nations refuse to hand over the individuals involved.

“Dalton McGuinty is completely neglecting the rule of law in Caledonia,” said Tory. “These negotiations should not resume until we have seen real progress on the apprehension of people accused of crimes up to and including attempted murder. The Premier should also clearly state that no negotiations will take place as long as any acts of lawlessness or intimidation continue to take place in Caledonia.”

[Court Order Appealed!]

Liberals Call for Federal Government to take leadership role on Caledonia dispute

August 10, 2006

Ottawa – Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s Conservative Government continues to dodge its responsibilities in the Caledonia land dispute, Liberal Indian Affairs Critic Anita Neville said today.

“It is clear to everyone that this is a land claims issue,” said Ms. Neville. “Yet Prime Minister Harper’s government continues to dismiss the dispute as a provincial matter. This is a clear abdication of the Crown’s overriding responsibility for First Nation’s affairs.”

The land dispute in Caledonia, Ontario has been going on for over five months, since First Nations protesters began their occupation of a housing development in late February. From the very beginning, the Harper government refused to intervene. A federal negotiator was only appointed after the standoff escalated in April.

“It is time that the Prime Minister heed the calls of all parties involved in the standoff. They are demanding the federal government take a more active role in resolving the dispute,” said Neville.

“After almost six months without a resolution, it should be obvious to the Conservatives that they need to redouble their efforts,” said Ms. Neville.

- - - - - - -

Court orders halt to Six Nations negotiations - Ontario to launch appeal. . .

News and Comment
by Tehaliwaskenhas
Bob Kennedy, Oneida
Copyright
Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

August 8, 2006

The Ontario Government announced it launched an appeal of the Superior Court ruling ordering a halt to Six Nations negotiations.

Attorney General Michael Bryant said the province will argue that the court did not have jurisdiction to make such a ruling.

Among the interesting aspects of this legal debate, is that the Province of Ontario now owns the disputed land in Caledonia and the First Nations people who are on the site, have not been ordered to leave by the owner - the Ontario Government.

Meanwhile, the federal government is not involved in the appeal of the Superior Court decision. Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice said he discussed the situation with the Ontario premier, and his boss, Prime Minister Harper, and both agreed the best solution is to stay calm and make sure relationships are maintained. He said the federal government is not appealing the Superior Court ruling because it doesn't have standing in the specific case.

A Six Nations woman was assaulted by a drunk Caledonia resident at the land reclamation site where a barrier has been erected to provide protestors with greater protection. Tempers flared again as Natives and non-natives stood opposite of each other's growing numbers, hurling abuse back and forth.

By way of comment, Judge Marshall rejected reasonable arguments against his idea that protestors must vacate the land and police must heed his earlier court orders and until that happens he ordered an end to negotiations. How this improves the situation is beyong me. In fact, some observors believe the judge has initiated action that will lead to more violence. We have already seen the signs since his decision was made. The opposing sides have squared off once again.

Perhaps Judge Marshall will get the message that what he has done is for him a very career limiting move . . . and for those who were negotiating in good faith, a great disservice.

- - - - - - -

Union of BC Indian Chiefs Supports Peaceful Resolution of the Standoff at Caledonia
For Immediate Release August 9, 2006

(Coast Salish Territory/Vancouver, August 9, 2006) Chief Stewart Phillip, President of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, stated today “The UBCIC wholeheartedly supports and applauds the Governments of Ontario and Canada’s responsible decision to appeal Ontario Supreme Court Justice Marshall’s outrageously partisan pronouncement that all negotiations between the parties must immediately cease in favour of a forceful eviction of all Six Nations people presently participating in land reclamation of the Douglas Creek Estate at Caledonia.”

In June, the UBCIC Chiefs Council passed Resolution 2006-15, Six Nations: Haldimand Tract Lands, which states that due to the potential for violence, the UBCIC “fully supports the ongoing efforts of the Clan Mothers and Traditional Chiefs of the Iroquois Confederacy to achieve a peaceful resolution.”

“On this day, the United Nations International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, we join the United Nations in celebrating our achievements as Indigenous People, but it is also a moment to acknowledge the critical challenges we face. These critical challenges, such as reconciling unresolved land issues, must be addressed in the spirit of respect and recognition. It is in this spirit, the UBCIC strongly supports the continuation of negotiations of the Haldimand Tract Lands. Any other course of action will surely escalate the tensions and the potential for open conflict not only in Caledonia but right across the country” concluded Chief Phillip.

- 30 -

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Chief Stewart Phillip
Union of BC Indian Chiefs
(250) 490-5314

- - - - - - -

Assembly of First Nations Calls on Federal and Ontario Governments to Appeal Caledonia Decision

OTTAWA, Aug. 9, 2006

Today, on the International Day of Indigenous Peoples, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine called on the federal and Ontario provincial governments to appeal the decision by Justice T. David Marshall to halt land claims talks in the Caledonia region and to order First Nations protesters and supporters off the disputed territory.

"This decision by Justice Marshall will stall and set back the
negotiations process, and may well be the spark that causes further violence" stated the National Chief. "It is imperative that the governments
participating in these processes make sure that the courts recognize the
mutual willingness to find a peaceful and mediated solution to this crisis,
especially given that today is the International Day of Indigenous Peoples."

The specific dispute over the proposed Douglas Creek Estates development project began in February, when Six Nations citizens began occupying the territory to re-assert their right to the land in the face of development and unauthorized sale of the land.

"Over the last seven years, the federal, provincial and Six Nations
governments have been working together to try and find a solution to the
ongoing disputes over this land," said the National Chief. "A settlement is
long overdue, but decisions like Justice Marshall's do nothing to achieve that goal. Every dispute requires a process to allow parties the time and space to resolve issues peacefully, which is what the parties to the dispute at Caledonia have put in place. It is time for the judicial system to hear all
sides of the story and to work with the interested parties instead of against
the processes we support."

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.

-30-

/For further information: Ian McLeod, AFN Bilingual Communications
Officer, (613) 241-6789 ext. 336, cell: (613) 859-4335/

- - - - - - -

August 7, 2006 - The peace was shattered overnight at the Six Nations land reclamation site where dozens of local residents confronted protestors. Back and forth taunting was reported. Provincial police managed to restore order but not before rocks were thrown by both sides. No injuries or arrests were reported.

August 6, 2006 - A judge in Ontario will issue a legal ruling Tuesday, regarding the Six Nations protestors in Caledonia. Judge Marshall has stated publicly several times his concerns that his orders have not been followed by the police, protestors and government officials. They have argued that negotiations are underway and it is not necessary to enforce the court orders further. Judge Marshall has rejected those arguments.

[Six Nations Culture Camp]

At the Land Reclamation site in Caledonia, Six Nations youth learn about their culture and peoples' traditions . . .

August 11,2006

This is from Hazel Hill's update

The Youth Camp is going to begin next week for a 15 day period at which time there will be teachings on areas such as

i) wampum identification and history,

ii) storytelling from the Creation Story and Great Law

iii) History: where we came from & migration to Grand River

iv) knowing your clan and roles and responsibilites

v) self discipline techniques

vi) men's roles

vii) women's roles

viii) human and legal rights as well as Peace Power and Righteousness.

We will also be working within the arts of lacrosse, dingball, rattle and drum making, soapstone carving, painting and drawing, beading, making mocassins and sewing.

All of these areas were the areas in which the youth and shown an interest in.

Funding the program is being supported by the elected band council.


MORE. . .

Good Morning from Grand River. It's been a few days since Justice Marshall made his ruling that the contempt of court orders must be upheld, and that negotiations were to stop until the people and the barricades have been removed from the site.

Obviously that created quite a stir within the Six Nations as well as within the town of Caledonia. Tuesday night became a night of venting when residents of Caledonia came down and gathered within about 40' of the main entrance of the reclamation site. The people had gathered at the fire earlier in the evening and concensus had been reached that until such time as the Crown's representatives had officially stated that the talks were off, that we were going to continue toward the August 23rd date that had previously been set aside for talks to continue.

It should be noted also, that all of the side table meetings that had been scheduled at this point were cancelled until further notice.

The people felt that for security and safety reasons, that the main entrance into the site should somehow be blocked or at least restricted in order to protect the people. The hydro tower that had been removed on July 11th was once again brought into the front entrance, and we believe that the Caledonia people who were expecting roads to be blocked again, thought this action was an indication of that.

It was at that point that they came rushing toward the site. The OPP had to form their human line again between the caledonia mob, and the six nations people. there was alot of racial comments being tossed around, and stones being thrown toward Six Nations, and at one point, a fire hydrant hose had been turned toward the caledonia mob to cool things down.

A unity flag was taken down by a young woman from Caledonia and when the OPP tried to stop her, she slapped the OPP officer and was taken into custody. We have no confirmation if any charges were laid, but we were however informed that the individual who sprayed the people with the hydrant hose would be charged. Go figure eh!

I think for the most part, that is what is most frustrating. We've had over 50 charges laid against our people to date. While Caledonia people are crying that nothing is being done about the so called terrorism, how many of the Caledoina people have been charged with the racial violence and terroristic acts of hatred that have been displayed toward six nations and have been caught on tape by news cameras as well as witenessed by the opp, have resulted in charges against those individuals. Our count is zero!

By 1:30 a.m. things had quieted down and pretty well all of the Caledonia people had gone home. Since then, it has been relatively quiet again, and the people on the site have stepped up the security to ensure that none of our neighbouring residents will be able to incite the violence that they have continually been trying to do.

The Caledonia Citizens Alliance (CCA) had previously indicated that their rallies were going to commence again because if the OPP and the government wasn't going to remove us from the site, then they would.

It is really sad that no matter how often we try to remind caledonia and the rest of the world that this is NOT a Six Nations vs. Caledonia problem but in FACT is a matter between Six Nations and the Crown; a small group of cca have continually tried to fan the flames of racism, in order to create a situation of violence that in their minds, will justify an action by the opp or other forces to come in and remove us from the site.

So far, greater minds of PEACE have prevailed and while small incidents have been created, our security and the people have been able to prevent the anticipated escalation of violence. On Wednesday, the Attorney Generals office of Ontario announced that it would be appealing Justice Marshall's decision, and the federal and provincial representatives of the crown have supported this action so that the peaceful negotiations can continue.

The tentative date for this as I said, is August 23rd and on that date, the crown's representatives and our representatives are to have all of their documentation available and ready to begin. Finally!!!! Lets get the proof on the table! We know what we have, now show us what you've got. Other than that, not a whole lot going on.

For today, that is about it as far as an update. We just wanted to ensure the many many supporters that we have out there, that our position has not changed, and we are maintaining our peaceful presence on the land. If there are any further developments with respect to the appeal, or on the land, I will get it out to you as soon as I can. Nya Weh!

In Peace, Light and Love,
Hazel

[Land Rights Talks Resume]

The important Six Nations land rights talks with governments are back on!

News and Comment
by Tehaliwaskenhas
Bob Kennedy, Oneida
Copyright
Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

August 23, 2006

Six Nations land rights negotiations have resumed after the Ontario Court of Appeals paved the way. It said a judge's recent opinion that talks must be put on hold until his previous orders were respected, and until people leave the disputed lands was just that, his opinion and not legally binding on the parties to the negotiations.

Basically, the Appeal Court said the judge had no legal basis to stop negotiations - an argument made by the Ontario Government in its appeal.

The provincial government purchased the land from the developers for $12 million and has not asked the Six Nations people to leave the site in Caledonia.

Prior to the lower court order earlier this month, negotiations were reported to be progressing positively between federal, provincial and Six Nations representatives. www.turtleisland.org/news/news-sixnations.htm

- - - - - - -

Hazel Hill's most recent updates from the Six Nations Land Reclamation site in Caledonia. . .

Good Morning from Grand River!
August 25, 2006

Well, there are a few things that have happened since my last update.

First, the appeal against Justice Marshall's ruling was heard on August 22nd, and the actual appeal was put over until September 25th and 26th. There was a ruling as far as the negotiation process, and the threat of contempt against the Federal and Provincial governments was lifted in order that the negotiations could continue.

And for the record, before everyone jumps all over me for the use of the word......'negotiations' in my writings it is strictly intended to mean 'talks'............our Haudenesonne delegation do understand that the land is NOT negotiable. Ok, thank you for letting me say that. I get just as frustrated over words and i know there is so much concern by the Onkwehonweh people that even using those words will lead us into the trap. While I can't speak for everyone, I believe that the people's eyes are wide open, and that again, nothing that is decided at the main table talks is legal until it goes back to the people and the men and women's council fire for ratification and consensus. That has been understood from the beginning of our reclamation and nothing has changed that fact.

The side table dealing with Kanenhstaton got right back to work on the 23rd as scheduled, and the Crown's historian gave an oral presentation on their understanding of some of the transactions with respect to the land, and later in the afternoon a video of Chief Cleveland General was shown which described an understanding that has been handed down from our ancestors with respect to our land, and how it was intended to be protected. For example, when leased for farming, how "plows depth" was always the intended use, as opposed to sales. Six Nations research expert Phil Monture then gave a brief outline of the understanding from Six Nations perspective and showed quite clearly how you can't take a document such as the 1841 surrender, and accept it as verbatum without looking at the rest of the history at the time.....an example of this is the fact that Samuel Jarvis who was the superintendent of Indian Affairs at that time, was also a shareholder in the Grand River Navigation Company and that alone was a breach of trust. Ultimately Jarvis was looking after HIS interests alone, and not that of the Six Nations. It was also evident that the only interests that were being protected were that of the white squatters, and not the Six Nations who were the title holders......a comment was made that this practice still continues to this day. Anyway, there is alot of discussions to take place with respect to the lands at Kanenhstaton, and this is not going to happen in a short period of time.

The main table discussion began yesterday and basically the presentation from all of the side tables was given.

The side table which I am involved with, the Archaeology/Improvements is scheduled to resume on Tuesday, August 29th at which time we will hopefully have the walkabout with potential archaeologists, and have interviews take place later on in the afternoon. The goal is to have the archaeological study done as soon as possible to confirm exactly what is/was on the lands at Kanenhstaton.

The Education side table is being reviewed to make sure the focus is on communication and education within educational facilities as well as government offices etc., along the Grand River Tract to provide the History of the Six Nations from our perspective and have an on-going dialogue in the hopes of preventing future displays of the racial descrimination that has occurred since the reclamation. The reaction that has been shown is evident of the need to provide this information because many people within Caledonia who might have recently moved into the area, do not have the same understanding and knowledge as the residents who's family's have been here for generations and who understand the land rights of the Six Nations.

Another of the side tables is the Consultation side table and unfortunately, i don't have anything to report on that one, other than there are people who are working to ensure that the Haudenesonne are being respected and that any future developments must come through the Six Nations people and our council. Again, another area that will be difficult, but if the willingness and respect is there on the part of the communities and townships along the Grand, then there will be no need for future reclamations to prevent major developments on our land base.

Oh, and rest assured, the focus of the reclamation has not been sidelined by any of these side tables. Some people feel the old divide and conquer tactic is being used to try and break us down through these side tables. We are remaining at Kanenhstaton until the land comes back into the Six Nations name, according to original title and not according to the Indian Act. If the Crown's representatives are honest and forthright in their intentions, we will arrive at that goal through the peaceful process now underway. They were very quick to give Caledonia funding for their so-called losses, (what did it take, 3 months?) and we are only now getting to the real deal as far as the Six Nations are concerned.........the land.(we've only been waiting a couple of hundred years)

Money is not an issue. If it was, our people would have taken Ken Hewitt up on his offer when he told one of our men that they (CCA) have an open cheque book from the government, and we could be part of it............what do they have to do to keep their money coming.................keep creating diversions to try and get the world to look at the Onkwehonweh people as the criminals and terrorists they are trying to paint us to be. It is not going to happen.

Meantime, the school board is putting up a temporary 8' fence between the school yard and the north side of the site so that the parents will feel that their children are safe when school resumes next week. We have already indicated to the feds and the province that that is their choice. We will continue to make plans as far as Kanenhstaton as we see fit, and whether it be playgrounds, parks, or flower gardens, the choice and action will be taken by the people, and not decided in any meeting.

So, I guess in a nutshell that's about it for now. The main table talks will resume on September 11th and in the meantime, the side table's will be working hard to get through all of the paperwork and or responsiblities that arise during these next couple of weeks. I will be doing my best to keep everyone informed as to what is happening and if there are any changes.

In Peace, Light and Love,

Hazel

- - - - - - -

August 20, 2006
Sago from Grand River.

This week has been a successful week with our youth camp activities. The camp, now known as ROOT CAMP (Reclaiming Our Onkwehonweh Traditions Camp) has had an attendance of around 25 eager young men and women who are participating in the activities. It is open to young men and women from Six Nations and the ages while geared toward 14 years and up, has had others a few years younger attending as well.

The co-ordinators of this camp are Carmen Thomas and Andrea Curley and they have been doing an excellent job of facilitating and organizing.

The first week's activities included Storytelling about Creation and Relationships by Pete Isaacs, an Introduction to Art with on-site logo/mural ideas and painting and drawing presented by Tonia Hilll, Norma General and Gerry Burning were in to discuss mens and womens roles, Scott Hill presented Lacrosse Teachings for Men, Wendy Hill was in to speak more about roles and responsiblities of men and women, and Beading was taught by Kim Smith.

The youth also enjoyed a full body contact game of rugby (the day after a good rain, and they had a blast!), and they have also went into the bush to cut their own sticks for a game of dingballs.

One of the highlights of the week was the preparation of traditional foods which included duck, bison, and deer meat that they prepared and invited the community in to enjoy. Brian Skye did the hands on cooking lesson with them and it wasn't long before they got in there and took right over.

There has also been many sessions where they have been encouraged to share their own stories of who they are and why they are here. For this session, Andrea and Carmen held talking circles for them to participate in.

I am really proud of the youth as well as the facilitators as they are all working very hard and everyone is looking forward to this weeks events. Nya Weh to all of our helpers who came in to share with the youth as well. It is much needed and appreciated and it is our hope that while this camp is only sheduled for 15 days, the youth are already asking that it continue after that time.

I ask that all of our supporters continue to pray for Unity, Peace, Light and Love and Justice for Creation......after all, that is what we are all here for isn't it?

Hazel

[Tory Still Stirs it Up!]

Tory leader Tory, continues to stir things up regarding Caledonia protest

News and Comment
by Tehaliwaskenhas
Bob Kennedy, Oneida
Copyright
Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

The Court of Appeal says it's okay for Six Nations people to stay on the land in Caledonia. In fact the judges called it a peaceful protest.

However, Ontario's Opposition Leader John Tory who represents the right wing Conservatives (Tories) is not about to leave well enough alone. He's like a kid who refuses to allow a wound to heal, and picks away at the scab until it bleeds.

In his latest letter to Premier Dalton McGuinty, released so the media probably read it before the Premier - Tory demands to know the provincial government's official position on the protest. He already knows the answer, but knows he can get favourable pro-Caledonia media coverage, during these "dog days" of summer when newsworthy items are usually hard to find. (Based on the belief that the average, "normal" person, including newsmakers, are off somewhere enjoying vacation)

Ontario's position is clear, if you really care to know the truth Mr. Tory.

Obviously I can't speak for the Premier, but I do know the province bought the land from the developers. That means the land is owned by the province. Ontario has stated it has no intention of removing the Six Nations people from the land reclamation site. Ontario is party to the talks with Six Nations officials and Canada seeking resolution to the land rights issues. Ontario was quick to appeal Judge Marshall's bizarre opinion that the protestors must get off the land and until they did he ordered an end to the talks. Of course the Appeal Court dismissed Marshall's opinion as just that - his personal opinion without legal force.

John Tory's audience for his ongoing rants, especially this latest one, include the individuals in Caledonia who have been less than peaceful in their approach to understanding why Six Nations people gathered on the land at the so-called Douglas Estates, in the first place. In fact, very few local residents seem to want to understand, and that includes local officials.

When he says he is concerned about the breakdown of the Rule of Law he never points an accusing finger in the direction of Caledonia residents, or should I say voters - the folks he hopes to woo, and persuade, to put a right wing Tory government back in power at Queen's Park. (this comes just after the Ipperwash Inquiry wrapped up, and provided us with a comprehensive look at how a right wing government can treat First Nation people asserting their land rights.)

Not afraid to play the fear-mongering game, John Tory uses children to make his point. ". . .provide comfort to parents as their children prepare to return to school in the coming weeks". Just like some of the local parents, he demands to know how the government plans to protect their kids. Some parents have said they'll send their children to a different school unless a fence is built to provide them with safety from the nearby protest.

John Tory's letter to the Premier is aimed at stirring things up, because he knows it deliberately puts the province in a 'damned if you do, damned if you don't' position.

"If you believe the protesters are legally occupying the Douglas Creek property, (what Friday's decision referred to as a peaceful occupation) would you, as the overseer of public safety and security in our province, set out the conditions under which you agree to have the land occupied?"

Tory wants the recently erected barricade taken down before school reopens, and also demands restrictions be placed on the Six Nations protestors . . ."reasonable restrictions on noise and nighttime activities".

Of course he doesn't acknowledge the barricade was necessary to protect them from the local rowdies and their provocative actions against the Native people.

The Conservatives are using the Caledonia situation to try to trip up McGuinty so they can use it in the next election campaign. They are setting a trap, hoping the government will issue specific law and order directives. The police are responsible for law and order issues at Caledonia and any perception of political interference will play into the hands of the likes of John Tory and friends.

- - - - - - -

Letter to Dalton McGuinty from John Tory about Caledonia

TORONTO, Aug. 27, 2006

The Honourable Dalton McGuinty, MPP
Premier of Ontario
Room 281, Main Legislative Bldg
Queen's Park
Toronto, ON M7A 1A1

Dear Premier,

We have all been following the events in Caledonia and the associated
court proceedings with great interest. As you are aware, I am especially
concerned about the breakdown of the Rule of Law that we have witnessed in Caledonia.

This past Friday, August 25, 2006, the Court of Appeal for Ontario
granted a stay with respect to the injunction issued by Justice Marshall
against protestors occupying the Douglas Creek Estates. In an effort to better understand the process and expectations of all, I would appreciate your clarification of a number of issues and response to the following questions:

1. During the recent Court proceedings, when prodded by a judge, lawyers representing the Government of Ontario clearly indicated that your government is now comfortable with the First Nations protesters remaining on the site indefinitely.

These statements from lawyers representing your government marked the first time this position had been publicly advanced and I would ask that you confirm that this is indeed your government's position.

2. If you believe the protesters are legally occupying the Douglas Creek property, (what Friday's decision referred to as a peaceful occupation) would you, as the overseer of public safety and security in our province, set out the conditions under which you agree to have the land occupied?

The Court has stated "(t)he Province should be permitted to determine what level of occupation and what use of its own property best promote the public interest in these difficult circumstances."

According to many of the residents with whom I've spoken, there is great concern about personal safety given recent activities which have occurred without consequences. Such terms, if required by your government as owner, would protect the interests of the residents of Caledonia and their families, as well as the First Nations people, and could provide comfort to parents as their children prepare to return to school in the coming weeks.

As suggested to you in my earlier letter on this matter this should include for example, reasonable restrictions on noise and nighttime activities. This is consistent with mutually respectful behaviour followed by neighbours everywhere and consistent with restrictions placed on almost every
person using someone else's property.

If indeed the First Nations people are on the land with the concurrence
of your government, why are the barricades needed? Isn't it reasonable that you might make it a condition of that concurrence that those barricades come down prior to the kids returning to the nearby school, as I suggested to you in my earlier letter?

I respectfully suggest to you that your failure to insist on a minimum
standard of behaviour over the past six months has led to disrespect for the law and a series of potentially negative precedents.

Taking steps to clarify these questions would be using your office to uphold respect for the law and due process, to persuade people to behave in a manner consistent with our shared expectations in Ontario and to reinforce the point that every single citizen, from the Premier to the newest arrival, is equal under the law and equally subject to that law.

I look forward to a reply at your earliest convenience.

Yours sincerely,



John Tory, MPP
Leader of the Official Opposition


For further information: Brendan Howe, (416) 325-0412

[Why Support Six Nations?]

PERSPECTIVE

October 2006

WHY CANADIANS SHOULD SUPPORT SIX NATIONS LAND RIGHTS

1. BECAUSE THEIR CLAIM IS JUST AND RIGHT.

Canada has a long and shameful history of mistreating First Nations peoples. Canada has broken treaty after treaty and has refused to fulfill its obligations to First Nation peoples, the Six Nations people included. Despite the fact that the Six Nations people have always been (and remain to this day) a national Confederation with whom the British crown entered into nation to nation agreements, the Canadian government imposed its own "Indian Act" by force upon them and encouraged the illegal sale and theft of land and revenue belonging to Six Nations. Respect for First Nations land and treaty rights and respect for indigenous sovereignty is a matter of
upholding human rights, international law and the Canadian Charter of
Rights and Freedoms. Colonization and appropriation of other peoples
resources is morally wrong and must be opposed, even if we or some of
our ancestors have benefited from it.

2. BECAUSE THE FAULT IN THIS CONFLICT LIES WITH THE FEDERAL CANADIAN GOVERNMENT, NOT THE PEOPLE OF SIX NATIONS OR CALEDONIA.

The government knew that the Douglas Creek Estates (DCE) lands were contested when it allowed them to be sold. If the government had developed a comprehensive land claims settlement process and had negotiated in good faith with Six Nations from the start, this problem would never have taken the form it has. People from Six Nations occupied the Douglas Creek Estates to stop a housing development from being built on contested land. Now that the situation has been escalated, non-natives on and off the Haldimand tract can best resolve this issue by pressuring the Canadian government to establish a fair and comprehensive settlement of all outstanding land claims with Six Nations.

3. BECAUSE THIS SITUATION WILL NOT BE RESOLVED BY VIOLENCE AND CONFLICT.

The time when the Canadian government or non-native vigilantes could
drive first Nations Peoples off their land has passed. Any attempt to
use force to resolve the reclamation of Douglas Creek Estates will only
make matters far worse and will likely end in bloodshed and serious
injury on both sides. As events at Ipperwash and Oka proved, native land
rights are political issues that must be solved through dialogue and
negotiation. These are political and not "law and order” issues, and the
use of force or threat of violence will not resolve them. Might does not
make right, and attempts to raise the level of tension through the
Friday night rallies in the Canadian Tire parking lot or through
proposed events like the October 15 march against the reclamation site
will only make the situation worse and increase the likelihood of people
being injured or even killed.

4. BECAUSE THE ENVIRONMENT AND OUR QUALITY OF LIFE IS IMPROVED BY RECOGNIZING FIRST NATIONS LAND RIGHTS.

The conflict over the Douglas Creek Estates and the future conflicts brewing over the Haldimand tract stem from the greed of real estate developers who are turning farmlands, animal habitat and countryside into suburban sprawl in order to enrich themselves. This way of life is not sustainable in the long-term and although it makes profits for the bankers, realtors and lawyers it does not benefit rural life or the average people in small towns like Caledonia. As suburban sprawl spreads small businesses are pushed out by the major chains and big box stores, farmers are pushed off the land and our natural environment is degraded. First Nations peoples have a long history of protecting the environment and of respecting nature. A recognition of their rights will ensure that the lands on and around the Haldimand tract are not ecologically devastated by further suburban sprawl or clogged up by excessive road traffic and smog.

5. BECAUSE IT IS THE ONLY WAY THAT CALEDONIA AS A COMMUNITY CAN HEAL ITSELF AND MOVE FORWARD.

The people of Six Nations and of Caledonia live closely connected lives, sharing schools, workplaces, friendships and families. The tensions caused by this conflict need to be resolved. The people of Six Nations have made clear over and over again that they are not calling for the removal of non-natives from their lands. No non-natives living in Caledonia are at risk of eviction. What Six Nations wants is the compensation they are owed and recognition of their land and treaty rights. It is possible for natives and non-natives to live together in peace and harmony, but in order to have peace there must be justice.


- Community Friends for Peace and Understanding with Six Nations
smiley100@mountaincable.net | 289-284-0154 | http://www.honorsixnations.com

- - - - - - -

BACKGROUND

Here is a quick report about the Community Friends public meeting in
Caledonia this afternoon (September 30th, 2006). First off, the event was a major success by any measure. Over 120 people from across the Haldimand tract and beyond attended the three-hour event which was addressed by indigenous rights lawyer Kate Kempton, Caledonia resident Jan Watson and United Steelworkers of America Local 1005 President Rolf
Gerstenberger.

More than $500 was raised as people reached deep into their pockets
to make a solidarity donation for the reclamation site by passing the hat at the meeting.

The message from the speakers and participants at the meeting was
unanimous in expressing support for Six Nations land rights and calling for the Canadian government to fulfill its obligations to indigenous people.

There were half a dozen members from the Caledonia Citizens Alliance present at the meeting but they did not publicly address the arguments raised in support of Six Nations.

Those Caledonians that spoke from the floor of the meeting stressed the importance of peacefully and honorably resolving the issue of Six Nations land rights and spoke out against racism and bigotry.

Numerous people from Six Nations also attended the meeting and gave
their perspective on the Canadian government's history of broken treaties while also describing the racism and harassment that has been directed against them.

At the meeting union activists from the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, the Service International Employees Union, the Canadian Union of Public Employees, the Canadian Auto Workers, and the United Steelworkers of America also spoke out to support Six Nations. The meeting ended with a focus on discussing the ways in which non-native people could organize support for Six Nations within their own communities and workplaces.

A big thank you goes out to all the Community Friends members and
supporters who made this event happen.

Special thanks goes to all of those who did the work of going door-to-door in Caledonia to leaflet for the meeting in the weeks leading up to the event. We also want to thank the members of the Six Nations Confederacy who while reasserting their sovereignty over lands used as a parking lot for the Caledonia Community Fair handed out hundreds of our leaflets to
the people going to the fair.

The struggle continues...

[Ontario Cops Go Political]

News and Comment
by Tehaliwaskenhas
Bob Kennedy, Oneida
Copyright
Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

October 23, 2006

A call by Ontario cops for Mounties to take over at Caledonia.

There is no stand off there.
In fact, Six Nations people are on land purchased by the province from developers, and are there with the knowledge and basic permission of the owner - the province.

Important archaeological research on the site is underway.

The people are conducting themselves peacefully, despite local non-natives trying to breach the peace - and outsiders stirring it up with marches, rallies and protests.

Local church groups and both Native and non-natives interested in harmony and fairness are working closely to try to off-set the naysayers.

Negotiations are continuing to resolve outstanding land rights issues.

So where is the standoff?

In the minds of the Ontario police who have decided to go political.

They are civil servants - paid to serve and protect, not to commission polls to stir up controversy. But that is precisely what they have done.

They admit they are no longer able to do the job they are being paid to do. So now they are becoming political lobbyists, hoping to play to a right wing audience - local citizens and the federal conservative government.

The cops have taken it upon themselves to initiate a public opinion poll. They report that it says most Ontario citizens - 58 percent, want a deadline on negotiations to end the long-running native land claim dispute in Caledonia, as well as direct federal government involvement in the talks - 80 percent, and policing by the RCMP - 67 percent.

The poll was commissioned by the Ontario Provincial Police Association because President Karl Walsh explained, "We commissioned this poll because our members are being asked to do the impossible, and they've been doing it since this stand-off began in late February. They cannot and should not be negotiating and policing at the same time. The federal government should take the lead in negotiating, and the federal police force should be sharing the burden of policing. OPP members are being pulled in from all across Ontario to handle the extra time requirements at Caledonia. We are concerned about the effects of excessive overtime on our members, and about the quality of policing elsewhere in the province with our ranks thinned by the needs of the Caledonia dispute".

The Association has written to Prime Minister Stephen Harper as well as RCMP Commissioner Giuliano Zaccardelli asking for their direct involvement in the Caledonia dispute.

The OPP Association represents over 7,500 Ontario Provincial Police uniformed and civilian members.

- - - - - - -

Federal Government should take the lead in Caledonia dispute: Poll

Most Ontarians also want RCMP policing & negotiations deadline

BARRIE, ON, Oct. 20, 2006

A just-released public opinion poll says most Ontario citizens want a deadline on negotiations to end the long-running native land claim dispute in Caledonia, as well as direct federal government involvement in the talks and policing by the RCMP.

The poll, commissioned by the Ontario Provincial Police Association, (OPP Association), was carried out by Toronto-based Pollara, one of Canada's leading public opinion firms.

The 601-person survey of Ontarians also shows:

- 80% have heard about the dispute in Caledonia

- 80% say the federal government should be negotiating with the First
Nations protestors

- 58% say a deadline should be imposed on talks

- 67% say the RCMP should be involved in policing the Caledonia dispute

"We agree with Ontarians: It's time for both the federal government and
the federal police force to assume their responsibilities in Caledonia," says
OPP Association President Karl Walsh.

"We commissioned this poll because our members are being asked to do the impossible, and they've been doing it since this stand-off began in late February. They cannot and should not be negotiating and policing at the same time," adds Walsh. "The federal government should take the lead in negotiating, and the federal police force should be sharing the burden of
policing."

"OPP members are being pulled in from all across Ontario to handle the
extra time requirements at Caledonia. We are concerned about the effects of excessive overtime on our members, and about the quality of policing elsewhere in the province with our ranks thinned by the needs of the Caledonia dispute," he concludes.

The OPP Association has shared the results of the poll with OPP
Commissioner Julian Fantino, with Ontario Community Safety & Correctional Services Minister Monte Kwinter and federal Justice Minister Vic Toews.

The Association has also written to Prime Minister Stephen Harper as well as RCMP Commissioner Giuliano Zaccardelli asking for their direct involvement in the Caledonia dispute.

The OPP Association represents over 7,500 Ontario Provincial Police
uniformed and civilian members who provide community-based policing and specialized policing services to residents in over 460 municipalities across Ontario.

OPP Association Caledonia Poll: Backgrounder

Research Background & Objectives:

The OPP Association commissioned Pollara to conduct quantitative research into Ontarians' opinions about the First Nations' protest in Caledonia, as well as to measure support for law enforcement involvement in the dispute. The main objectives of this research were to:

- determine awareness and knowledge of the Caledonia protests

- measure support for various resolution tactics to the current stand-
off

- gain insight into perceptions of how the matter is being handled by
both government and law enforcement officials

Research Methodology:

The survey was designed to ensure a representative sample of the Ontario population was attained. At the data analysis stage, the data were weighted to ensure they are fully representative of the overall population of Ontario. Telephone interviews were conducted with Ontarians 18 years of age and older between September 27th and October 1st, 2006. In total, 601 interviews were completed, resulting in an overall margin of error of plus or minus 4.0%, nineteen times out of twenty.

Key Questions and Results:

"As you may know, Caledonia is a small town in southern Ontario, west of Hamilton, near the Six Nations Reserve. Currently, there is a dispute over land between some First Nations people from the Reserve and a developer. Since the dispute has been going on since February, and it has not yet been resolved, the province of Ontario has agreed to spend 20 million dollars to buy the land from the owner. Had you heard about the native land claim issues in Caledonia before today?" Result: Awareness of the Native land claim issues in Caledonia is high with four-in-five (80%) of Ontarians saying they have heard of the Native land claim issues.

"Usually the federal government is responsible for First Nations land
claims. Do you agree or disagree that the federal government should be
negotiating with the First Nations protestors in the Caledonia land dispute?
Result: A total of 80% of Ontarians agree, (58% "strongly" and 22% "somewhat) that the federal government should be negotiating. Only 13% of Ontarians disagree, (7% "strongly" and 5% "somewhat"), while 7% "don't know" or refused.

"With the federal government usually being responsible for First Nations
land claims, do you agree or disagree that the federal police force, the RCMP, should be asked to take part in policing Caledonia? Result: More than two-thirds, 67%, of Ontarians agree, (40% "strongly" agree, 27% "somewhat agree"), that the RCMP should be asked to take part in policing, while less than one-in-four, 23%, disagree, (11% "somewhat" disagree, 12% "strongly" disagree), while 10% "don't know" or refused.

"Do you agree or disagree that there should be a deadline on
negotiations, after which the protestors would be removed from the land?"
Result: More than one-half (58%) of Ontarians agree, (35% "agree strongly", 23% "somewhat agree"), that there should be a deadline on negotiations, after which the protestors should be removed from the land. One-third, (33%) of Ontarians disagree with this plan, including one-in-four, (22%) who "strongly disagree", (11% "somewhat disagree" and 9% "don't know" or refused).

For further information: Karl Walsh, President, OPP Association, (705)
721-4867 or 1-800-461-4282

- - - - - - -

The following perspective flows from the recent weekend when non-natives staged a march and rally while our people gathered to enjoy, culture, tradition, food, family and friends. . .

Excerpts from Hazel Hill's report October 19, 2006

Sago from Grand River. Sooooooooooo October 15th was an AWESOME day of unity, peace and socializing. Way to go Six Nations and Everyone! I was overwhelmed. When people ask me how did it go, all I can say is "it was awesome!" Thanks to Pat and the rest of you guys/girls for doing all the drumming. Thanks to everyone who helped out in the kitchen. Thanks to ALL of you who came out and brought your pot-luck dishes.

Overall I just want to thank everyone, the union supporters, all of the organizations who were represented, all of supporters who came to stand in Unity, in Peace, and for Justice. To all of you, a great big NYA WEH!!!!!!

I think we made the world record for having the largest potluck. I know we had over a thousand people at the site. Everywhere you looked it was people. Even though channel 11 tried to tell the world that McHale had over a thousand people supporting and six nations had about 500, it was the other way around. And I don't know if they reported or not, but McHale left all of those Caledonia people standing there and took off back to Richmond Hill after he gathered his pails full of money. Thinking he was superman, he beated on his chest, said "my job here is done" and flew back to his own town.

The good news on the whole rally thing is that a couple of men from Caledonia, sorry guys, don't remember your names, but they came to the front gate and were totally pissed at McHale for using Caledonia and Six Nations like he did. In their words "this had nothing to do with him and Richmond Hill". Now these guys were obviously not supportive of the reclamation, but we were in total agreement about how Gary tried to take advantage of this situation for his own personal gain, and they thought Six Nations and Caledonia should organize our own rally together and go rally on his front lawn! Not a bad idea guys.

And we gained an opportunity to invite these guys back to the site anytime. At least if they want to know a bit of the history, or to learn what is really going on since their government isn't so quick to tell them anything, they can come to the site and talk to the people. That is all we're really asking. If you don't agree, if you don't understand, at least come and talk to us. And before i forget, thanks to Gary McHale for helping to bring our people together, as well as opening a few more eyes in our neighbours. Once again we proved Truth and Justice triumph over Evil . . .


As far as everything else at Kanonhstaton, everything is great. The people are in good spirits and we're doing what we have to do to keep everything going. Archaeology has started, nothing to report yet, they will be having a media conference soon. As far as negotiations, main table goes back on the 20th of October, maybe we'll have some good news then! We'll see if the Crown has been able to get their documents together that Six Nations has asked for. This should prove whether or not they followed THEIR LAW when dealing with "Indian lands" pre-confederation. According to their laws, there is certain requirements such as an Order in Council, mapping, exact description and sketching of the lands in question, etc.; that they are required to have accompany any "surrender" of lands. I'll let you know how they do next week.

At the side table I sit at, (we're suppose to deal with Archaeology and Appearances), we are also dealing with buffer zones, water & gas use etc, drainage, they even try to drag in policing, but anyway, recently two things have come up. One of the issues was the fact that Haldimand Township was concerned about the water and possible contaminants in it. So, being the nice guys that we are, we worked a relationship with Haldimand to let their people come in an test the water. It was scheduled every tuesday and had been going on for about a month and they were taking their sample from an outside tap at the main house.

Two weeks ago, they decided that instead of taking the sample from the outside tap, they needed to take it from the inside tap. There was even some discussion of shutting off some of the fire hydrants before winter to prevent freezing. I might not be the sharpest tool in the shed, but common sense tells me they don't go shutting of fire hydrants throughout the rest of Canada when winter hits. Can you imagine the chaos! What really got me is the discussion about their need to bring in someone from the Gas Company because they had a report that we were syphoning off gas with a water hose. Can you imagine! Sure, we're gonna syphon natural gas with a garden hose.... and blow ourselves up in the process!!! Dah! and as far as the water testing, I took it to the people, and concensus was that we're sick and tired of always giving giving giving. It wasn't good enough for them to have us co-operate in giving the sample, they should have left it at that. Instead now they're pushing to get into the houses.

I told them, "we give you an inch and you take a mile" Doesn't that sound familiar. Give an inch for the squatters, (town plots in Brantford) and look where that got us! And again, I might be stupid, but doesn't all the water coming into that house come from the same source! And why all of a sudden is it not ok for having us do our own water sampling anyway? they give us this big song and dance about how their ministry officials have to take the sample for legal reasons since the Walkerton episode. Well, I guess that only holds if your skin is a little darker cause what it really boils down to is Trust. They don't trust us. They stole all of our land and resources, and they have issues with trust!!!!! Riddle me that one batman!

This weekend, I had the opportunity to speak to a young woman from Caledonia who had water problems just a couple of years ago, was allowed to take her own samples, run them into the health unit, and they even were used in court on a legal matter, so guess what Canada, once again your lies and deciet have been uncovered, and as far as the water sampling, gas testing, hydro meter reading and anything else on the site, THE PEOPLE OF SIX NATIONS will deal with it.

And there again, is another issue that got my dander up a bit. Since the reclamation began, the mayor of Caledonia and others have been whining and complaining that the taxpayers are paying for the utilities at the site. We told them last winter to send us the bills at #1 Reclamation Drive, Six Nations, but we received no bills. Then the discussions comes to that side table i sit on, and again I told them "go ahead and send the bills. Better yet send them to the Queen, she's holding all of our trust monies" . So rather than take it to the Chiefs and the Maintable where any decisions, especially having to do with spending money should go, they had McGuinty, one of their politicians, make a big announcement in the media that they have "negotiated with the Six Nations to have the utility bills paid".

I want everyone to know that while it was said at our side table, (along with the suggestion about sending the bills to the Queen), it should have come back to the main table and to the people for ratification. That is the process and protocol that was established in the beginning of negotiations, and the Crown representatives know full well that this is what has been agreed to.

So, maybe, if I suggest that while the province of Ontario was quick to pay off Henco over 15 million, put millions of dollars into the town of Caledonia for its trauma and hardships, perhaps it should put some of those millions into Six Nations since we do own the land, have never been paid any lease monies on any of the lands and their bill right now exceeds hundreds of billions of dollars, and they got the nerve to whine about a couple of hundred bucks for utility bills.

Send the bills, but make sure you're ready to cut a cheque for at least a hundred million to start covering the damn rent you owe!

Have a good day all!

In Love, Light and Peace,

Hazel

- - - - - - -

Also here is an excerpt from a September 2006 report - some previous comments from Hazel Hill that provide a Six Nations perspective. . .

"The reclamation of our land and all of the fraudulent land transfers and sales of Onkwehonweh land will only be addressed if the people of Canada and all of our world wide support demand that Canada take responsibility for its' actions.

We didn't create the situation, we are only trying to rectify it, for our children and future generations. We have taken action and have re-claimed land that is rightfully ours. We are there in Peace, and have been since February 28th. Now that the Crown has finally recognized and agreed that the land at Kanonhstaton is in fact on the table and needs to be addressed, they also need to hear from their constituents that so too is the honour of the Crown. Will Canada allow the hatred and violent displays of racism of its citizens to continue and possibly create another Ipperwash, or will it use the lessons of the past to ensure that the violence stops and admit to their citizens that it is through their own actions and abuse of assumed power that we are in this situation today."

In Peace, Love and Light, Hazel

- - - - - - -

September 15, 2006

Sago from Grand River.

Today was our 200th day on the Land Reclamation of Kanonhstaton.

Interestingly enough, it was also the day that CBC aired Part 1 of the movie "Indian Summer, the Oka Crisis". To say the least, it was definitely a good reminder of how things work for our people. It brought to surface all of the feelings we've all been having for the last 200 days right up to the forefront again. There is alot of similarities in what happened in 1990 to what's happening today and it is hard to watch to say the least.

Watching this first part leaves me wondering what's going to happen. There is no question that our people have learned from the past. The question really is, has the government of Canada? I know that our people never forget, and seeing the backdoor meetings of the government officials, watching the treatment of our people by the SQ, and witnessing the racist behaviours of the people in Chatequay are not much different than what's happening today. It really makes you think about what really is going on.

The resolve of the people is no different. The focus of title and jurisdiction and the Sovereignty of the Haudenesaunee is forefront in the minds of all who have made this stance. We have our delegates meeting with representatives of the Crown and they are meeting in good faith, but it does bring to question whether or not the Crown has a real understanding of the enormity of this reclamation, and the support of the Onkwehonweh around the world.

At the last meeting of the main table I requested that each of the parties involved in the negotiation process watch this movie. I asked because from our perspective we knew that the tactics of the government of canada and the similarities of the negotiation process haven't changed much. I wanted them to understand that to our people, the land is as important as the air we breathe. We are part of the land. There is no separation. We have gone through the demands of removing the barricades and we have gone through the backpeddling of the government on promises made, and then changed or broken to suit their needs. We are continually being met with demands of disengagement when we ultimately know that when we walk away from the land, they will walk away from the table. It does not take a genious to figure out that our Confederacy representatives are at the table because of our reclamation. It also doesn't take a genious to figure out that all the while they are negotiating with our Chiefs and delegated representatives of the people, that behind closed doors they are making simulataneous deals with individuals of the illegal entity known as the band council and are strategizing on how to get our people off the land so that they can go back to working with the party they created as an arm of the federal government.

Elected Chief Dave General has made it clear that he does not support the reclamation and ultimately does not support the people. He continually pushes the land exploration process that the government of canada has designed that does nothing to have the land returned to our people, does nothing to recognize or hold accountable the Crown for the theft, nor does it address the underlying title and jurisdiction; but instead offers minimal monetary compensation that secures nothing for the future generations.

Now mind you, not all of the band councillors are party to this deceit. Some of them are working just as hard and have recognized the need to have the Confederacy deal with the long out-standing theft of our land and the misappropriation of our trust because they recognize that they are the only ones who can represent our treaties and our sovereignty.

This is something that our people have waited over 80 years to be able to deal with. Not with the interference of the Crown, but within the Six Nations ourselves. It is the governance of Six Nations. The initial meeting to begin that process will happen tomorrow morning. We will begin the long process of hashing out and undoing the mess that was created by the undeniable interference of the Crown in our internal affairs. From my perspective, there is no doubt that the only true government of the Haudenesaunee lies within the Great Law, and that is with the people. The avenue from which the Confederacy Council takes it's direction. The band council is and always will be an administrative body. That should be it's only function. It mimics canada's parliament and does not truly represent the people. It is the people within Six Nations who have to make that position loud and clear. It is not for Ottawa to decide.

Recently I was given documentation from someone who's uncle had kept for years. It was a declaration of resistance by the people at Six Nations against the illegal imposition and invasion of the Imperial Government of Great Britain in their attempt to impose foreign made laws upon us. This document and petition was dated in July of 1923 and had the signatures of 100's of our people. It was definitely a voice stronger and larger than the 9 or so signatures of people who the crown used to bring in their Indian Act council in 1924. It really makes it clear that back then, just as now, the crown will use a minority of people who they can manipulate or buy to suit their needs.

Today, we have to show the crown that their interference in our side of the Two Row will no longer be tolerated. We have international recognition for our Sovereignty as a Nation and must utilize that recognition and demand the Crown uphold it's responsibilites not only to the treaties but also in its responsibility of having created the situation we are in today.

As far as whats been happening at the site, things have been relatively quiet. There have been a few incidents of individuals from the Caledonia Citizens Alliance trying to create violence by taking down signs along the roadway in front of the site, and trying to come into the site on the pretense of having a picnic and in the spirit of peace, in the meantime being intoxicated and ultimately looking for a fight. Their latest move was a letter written to Premier McGuinty requesting permission to have a 20,000 person rally on the land at Kanonhstaton on October 15th. Their reasoning? "The Indians have had use of the land for 6 months, we're entitled to 1 day". They've invited Jane Stewart, the lead Provincial negotiator to partake in their plans, but we have been told that she declined because of her involvement in the peaceful negotiation process.

It would be good if the canadian government reminded the CCA that the land at Kanonhstaton is not public land. It is being held in trust by the Province at this time, yes, but it has been reclaimed by the people of Six Nations. We have remained peaceful, in spite of the gossip and rumours pegging us as terrorists, and we will continue our unarmed reclamation of our land while this process continues. The whole issue of lights and noise, atv's, fireworks and police buffer zones continues to take precedence over the land at the table, even though we have respected the concerns of our Caledonia neighbours months ago, and even created a buffer zone well in excess of 100' which our people have respected, but the government fails to recognize. They want it in writing. Well, we all heard how that plan works. Continually demand further encroachments of police lines until they have you boxed in. Wasn't that Bourassa's plan in 1990? Whichever government rep it was, we're not buying into it. The 100' buffer zone exists.

All the Crown has to do is remind the individuals within caledonia who haven't respected it. The OPP have told the government that it is a policing issue. They have also re-affirmed our position that we have been most respectful of boundaries, there are no incidents of loud noises, atv's driving around all night, or lights being shone in windows. The only threat of violence is coming from the CCA. It could be just another of those government tactics to justify an invasion, or it could be individuals who don't have an understanding or respect for the truth.

Whatever and whoever it is, the onus is on the crown to deal with it. It is clearly on their side of the wampum and if nothing else has been learned to date, our delegates have been consistent in reminding the crown exactly how that Two Row is suppose to work.

Today CCA representative Jim Smith and a few others held a protest against the OPP and what their terming as a "two-teared" justice system. I don't know if they meant 'two-tiered' but again I have to admit, Jim Smith is absolutely right. That justice system that he refers to is two-tiered and biased. The only people being charged are from Six Nations, inspite of overwhelming evidence and facts clearly indicating that the violence and openly admitted possible use of weapons as a resolve, is coming from within the CCA. I think 1 Caledonian compared to over 50 or more from Six Nations has been charged so I guess Jim's claim's that the Onkwehonweh have been receiving 'special treatment' are true to a certain degree.

It's just that, that treatment of the Onkwehonweh, is nothing new, special, nor is it surprising. It just is. It would be good if some of the people who truly believe in justice, who truly want to see racism and violations of human rights be stopped, and who truly believe in a peaceful resolution process; begin calling Jane Stewart, Dalton McGuinty, Stephen Harper, Barbara McDougal and Jim Prentice just to name a few, and demand that the idiotness of the 20,000 person rally be stopped immediately to prevent a possibly volatile situation, and that the Federal Government pull up its briches and begin taking an active role in this resolution process and stop passing everything off over to the Province.

As duly representatives of the Crown, and as recently pointed out to me, representatives of Her Majesty's Privy Council, it is not a choice, it is an obligation.

In Peace, Love and Light,

Hazel

- - - - - - -

August 30th, 2006
Hazel Hill's Update from the Reclamation site . . .

Good morning! For nights I've been tossing and turning trying for the life of me to figure out what makes politicians tick, and when i think i've got a handle on it, someone else says something totally off the wall and it gets my brain working overtime again.

If you're not sure what i'm talking about, it's the statements that have been made in the last couple of days, by politicians close to the heart of our land reclamation.

First you have Toby Barrett, (who even though he is backpeddling now, and saying that's not what he meant), making statements implying that the people on the land reclamation site are being funded by organized crime.

Well, after a couple nights of that tossing and turning I have a response for Mr. Barrett. He is absolutely right!!!!!!!

CANADA, who ultimately has control of the piggy bank for the CROWN when it comes to our trust money that is being held hostage, ARE THE MOST ORGANIZED CRIMINALS IN HISTORY OF THIS EARTH! And ultimately, that is where our support money is coming from, filtered through the band council, who, while their hands are tied to how much they can support, have been trying their best to support the people at the site.

It boggles my mind that there are still people out there who believe that we are a burden on them, and their tax dollars.

Ok, lets see, in the simplest of explanations, the British Crown decided to start some businesses, they are called Corporations, and in this case, specifically Canada and the United States. We'll stick to those two to make it simple.

Lets say the United States is Coke, and Canada is Pepsi. In order to make their companies work, to build and promote their product, they needed the land base and they needed minerals, oils, etc., all of the resources that once made our earth rich in health. The crown seen them as riches in the name of the dollar bill. so, henceforth began building their little empire. They began by stealing of the land base of the Onkwehonweh people, giving unfullfilled promises of lease moneys and this so-called trust account that ultimately built their companies (Canada and the United States) and did nothing to help the Onkwehonweh people.

Instead, they handed out pittances of money, because afterall, according to them (and their indian act) we were not humans, but some ignorant beings that needed to be looked after.

Today, their thinking is no different.

Caledonia's Mayor Trainer, last night for the world to see, made a statement on national television about us fixing up the houses, and how they (canadians) have strict guidelines to follow and how we (Six Nations) are just going to go in there and finish those houses without any recourse. Basically what she is saying is that we are all ignorant stupid people who can't do anything for ourselves. News for you Marie, the Six Nations have the most well-known and respected carpenters, iron-workers, and tradesman on this continent. And according to the Six Nations Housing Inspectors, the houses that are on the site, don't even meet the building code of Six Nations.

Maybe that should have been looked at before the Province paid off Henco. And maybe those people who are upset that they didn't get to buy their dream home, should be thanking us for saving them headaches in the future. This brings me to what is irking me still.

These politicians and people who still believe that we are 'wards of the crown' and that they have a fiduciary responsibility. Fiduciary my ass, they have a responsiblity to pay their damn debt, own up to their corruption in the establishment of their corporations, and tell their tax payers the truth.........that WE really are the landlords, that they have been collecting taxes illegally, they have sold them land to which they hold no title, they have used our land base as collateral in the world trade market illegally, and that ultimately, everything that they have built, technically belongs to the Onkwehonweh People because they've built it with our resources and on our land base, and without authority to do so.

Remember, they did not have a constitution. They had only 7 years to establish their constitution, and thanks to Mr. Elijah Harper, they were unable to do so. Therefore, We, as the only TRUE SOVEREIGNS, still hold the only true constitution on this earth. The Great Law. Go back to the time when Julius Ceasar brought Celopatra to the senate room, and asked the senate, can you challenge divine right of reign......in other words, The Creators Law. No they cannot, and Canadian Parliament cannot to this day.

So Mr. Toby Barrett, next time you talk about organized crime, look in your own back yard and who is funding your government and your so-called country.

And as far as people grumbling because we are tax exempt, the trusteeship is in OUR name. They are only pilgrams, standing on the Canadagua Treaty, and they only have a pilgrimage. They are not able to levy a tax. Only a true Soverign can levy a tax, and therefore, again, we being the true sovereigns, are the trustees to all of the tax dollars collected by those corporations, namely Canada and United States.

Now mind you, through their trickery and use of our own people, they implement illegal acts such as the Land Repreation Act, which was brought through the Band Council of Akwesasne, which in the minds of those corporations, gave them the right to tax. However, the band councils, who are an arm of the federal government, or state in this case, do not have the authority to enter into such agreements, and again, an Act, is NOT the LAW. Just as the Constitution Act of Canada, is NOT a LAW. Which brings me to where my head has really been the last few months, WHAT exactly are we talking about at the table?

The crown, who has commissioned her servants, the provincial and federal government to deal with this land reclamation, needs to clarify exactly what is their mandate. If their mandate does not give them the authority to turn back the land to the Onkwehonweh People, then there is no need for us to be sitting at that table, or perhaps the crown needs to put the people at the table who DO have the authority to do so. Where is the Governor General? Where is the British High Commissioner? Exactly who does have the authority? We know we hold title, that hasn't changed. We know our documentation and our history clearly indicates and maps out the frauds that have taken place since we gave them their foothold here, which ironically was, THE HALDIMAND TREATY!!!!! The table's have now turned.

Our people's eyes are now wide open. The Women, who carry the responsibility of protecting the land, no longer have their spirits in bondage, and we are taking our rightful place in Creation. Our Clanmothers are standing strong. Our men are supporting us. We are a Soverign Nation of People who in the name of Peace, are DEMANDING JUSTICE! Justice for the Onkwehonweh, and Justice for Creation. It is not an option. Those guilty of molestation and hindrance against the Onkwehonweh Nations of the World must right the wrongs. The Corporations of the Crown must answer to the frauds they have committed.

We are NOT sitting at the table having a tea party, We are at the table prepared to enter into Nation to Nation dialogue............is the Crown?

And on that note, Have a Good Day!

In Peace, Love and Light,

Hazel

[Political SnitsSnubsSpats]

November 2, 2006
Ontario Legislature - Question Period

NATIVE LAND DISPUTE

Mr. Howard Hampton (Kenora-Rainy River): My question is for the Deputy Premier. It's becoming very clear that Premier McGuinty's squabbling and bickering with Ottawa has paralyzed the work of the Ontario government, to the detriment of ordinary Ontarians. Marie Trainer, the mayor of Caledonia, said this about your squabbling and bickering: "They are just playing games right now. We're in the middle. We're the ones suffering. I'd like them to stop acting like children. I wish they would quit holding Caledonia residents as hostages."

Deputy Premier, why are the needs and priorities of working families across Ontario taking a back seat to Premier McGuinty's squabbling, bickering and electioneering?

Hon. George Smitherman (Deputy Premier, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care): As usual with the honourable member, it's what he doesn't say that would be helpful for the context of his question, because what he doesn't say when he speaks about the municipal leader that he quotes in his question, Mayor Trainer, is that she also said that the need was there for the federal government to come to the table and to take a lead.

It's odd that the honourable member who so often depends upon the words of Chief Angus Toulouse didn't use those today either, but here's what was said in a release: "`This Conservative government claims it is a government that takes action, but when it comes to First Nations they are completely missing in action'....

"`The reality is that issues related to First Nations lands are a direct and clear federal responsibility.'"

The honourable member knows this well because he asks these questions very regularly in the House. It's interesting, I suppose, that he thinks we should go it alone on an issue where, to the point, the federal government is clearly in the lead. It is Ontario's obligation to ensure that the federal government fulfills their constitutional responsibilities, and we will continue on that path until that is done.

Mr. Hampton: Allen MacNaughton is chief of the Six Nations. He says, "[I]t is with great concern that the Hodiyenehsoh find the crown in right of Ontario and Canada engaged in playing politics in the media."

Deputy Premier, ordinary Ontarians want their governments to work for them. Instead, Dalton McGuinty and Stephen Harper are working on their election campaigns. I ask this question: When is the McGuinty government going to stop squabbling, going to stop bickering and start getting some results for the ordinary people of Ontario?

Hon. Mr. Smitherman: We note the defensiveness on the part of the NDP, seeing that the federal government in Ottawa is really their government. But it's interesting that the honourable member is unwilling to stand in his place and make the case with respect to Ontario. He raises, on a regular basis, the issue of responsibility -- primacy of responsibility -- to the federal government, but for today's purposes, that's not evident. In his question he quotes someone -- in this case, Chief MacNaughton -- but what he doesn't read from Chief MacNaughton's very own release is the following: "but we agree [that] the emphasis on resolution must come from the federal crown. It is with the federal crown that Six Nations agreements have been made."

So we agree that this is a complex issue. On behalf of Ontarians, and with a view toward a resolution that involves people working together and talking together to come to appropriate conclusions, we have done our part and we have been there. But our frustration speaks to the fact that, on one hand, all the parties agree. The necessity is there for federal government leadership. We press for it, we call for it . . .

- - - - - - -

November 1st, 2006
Ontario Legislature - Members Statement

NATIVE LAND DISPUTE

Mr. Norm Miller (Parry Sound-Muskoka): I rise in the House today to point out that the gross mishandling of the Caledonia file by the McGuinty Liberals has resulted in millions of dollars of unnecessary and reckless government spending. It seems this government just woke up after eight months of the Caledonia occupation to discover they can't handle the file, after spending millions of dollars. So now they are blaming the federal government and asking them to pick up the tab for the spending related to Caledonia that the feds had no say in approving.

Yesterday in the House, the Premier mentioned a long list of items the government has covered in Caledonia, but he didn't attach a price tag to any of them. Today, the Liberals want $40 million from Ottawa, which includes $15 million for policing costs, but who knows how much they will want from the feds tomorrow.

I've mentioned in the House before that the Caledonia issue actually stemmed from litigation rather than a land claim. Aboriginal affairs minister David Ramsay agreed, because several months ago he described the occupation as "an accounting claim, by and large." Mr. Ramsay's own website did not initially include the Six Nations or Caledonia property under land claims and related negotiations.

This government has been all over the map with the Caledonia file. One day it was a land claim; the next minute it wasn't. Now the government believes it is a land claim, so they can pin the blame and the file on the federal government in a purely partisan political move. We think Ontarians deserve better than a government that attacks its federal counterparts while trying to pass the buck on Caledonia.

- - - - - - -

Political Snits, Snubs, and Spats

Caledonia / Six Nations land dispute sparks Feds feud with Ontario

News and Comment
by Tehaliwaskenhas
Bob Kennedy, Oneida
Copyright
Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

November 1, 2006

A jurisdictional battle between Indian Affairs and Aboriginal Affairs!

The Ontario goverment says the Caledonia/Six Nations land dispute is the responsibility of the federal government. In fact, the province wants $25 Million from Ottawa for costs to date in dealing with the Caledonia crisis.

Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice, often accused by the Opposition of being missing in action, now is seeking refuge at INAC.

He scrapped a scheduled meeting last night with Ontario's David Ramsay, apparently in a snit over Ontario's demands and desire to play it out in the media prior to the meeting.

Minister Ramsay issued a statement calling the cancellation by Prentice another example of the federal government failing to live up to its obligations to the people of Ontario.

"Ontario families - particularly those in the Caledonia area - find themselves caught in a dispute between the federal government and Six Nations. Ontario taxpayers have paid, and continue to pay, a hefty price for the ongoing occupation in Caledonia. The Ontario government has been working hard to bring all parties together at the negotiating table. We have achieved some progress, but not nearly enough.

Over the past 26 years, 29 land claims have been filed by Six Nations in that area of Canada. Only one has been settled by the federal government. That pace is too slow. The federal government must take the lead and bring vigour to the negotiating table and a will to resolve these outstanding disputes.

I am disappointed that Minister Prentice chose not to attend a scheduled meeting tonight with me to discuss the situation in Caledonia".

- - - - - - -

Ontario Regional Chief calls on Federal Government to fulfill Fiduciary Duty and Honor Treaty Obligations

TORONTO, Nov. 1, 2006

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Regional Chief for Ontario responded today to news that Ontario's Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs David Ramsay was snubbed by the federal Minister of Indian Affairs Jim Prentice yesterday, when federal Minister Prentice backed out of a meeting at the last minute that was set-up to discuss the situation at Six Nations / Caledonia and water issues.

AFN Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse stated: "This Conservative
government claims it is a government that takes action, but when it comes to First Nations they are completely missing in action."

Regional Chief Toulouse called on the federal government to fulfill its
responsibilities with regard to the settlement of outstanding First Nation
land rights.

"The reality is that issues related to First Nations lands are a direct and clear federal responsibility," said Regional Chief Toulouse. "This is yet
another example of this governments' refusal to accept and fulfill their
lawful obligations. This government needs to understand that in order for
progress to be made in Caledonia - and across the country - there needs to be some semblance of political leadership at the federal level. First Nations leadership are working with all parties directly involved in the talks in a constructive manner, yet the federal government and federal Minister prefer to run away from responsibility instead of working with us on these difficult but fundamental issues. Why is the federal Minister abandoning the people of Six Nations and the people of Caledonia?"

This meeting scheduled for October 31st was to address the cost of the
land rights dispute at Six Nations, as well as water issues in First Nation
communities. Regional Chief Toulouse expressed deep concern regarding the pattern that has emerged with respect to the approach of the federal
government toward First Nations issues since coming into office in January
2006.

The Regional Chief stated: "This Minister has a lot to say but little to show for it. We are still awaiting the 'urgent' report on clean drinking water for First Nations announced more than 7 months ago, which is reportedly
sitting on the Minister's desk. The only action we are seeing is funding cuts
in important areas like health and special education. There are 134 First
Nation communities in Ontario, the largest First Nations population of any
province or territory in Canada. We have made reasonable efforts to engage the federal government and we are being largely ignored. The Minister has now decided to ignore his provincial counterpart and Ontario taxpayers as well."

The Regional Chief reiterated his expectation that the federal government accept their responsibilities to First Nations in Ontario and across the country. He pointed out that as recently as last week, Prime Minister Harper referred to the Six Nations land rights dispute as a provincial issue and a policing matter.

"It is time for this government and this Minister to accept their responsibility" stated Regional Chief Toulouse. "The Minister himself has
stated that finding more effective and efficient ways to resolve claims is of
critical importance. We agree, and in fact, have many concrete recommendations and proposals we can discuss if he is seriously willing to listen. We remain ready and willing to work with all parties towards a fair, just and timely resolution to the issues at Six Nations/Caledonia and on the broader agenda of improving the quality of life for First Nations. We should all be embracing this responsibility, not hiding from it."

For further information: Pam Hunter, Communications Advisor, office:
(905)683-0322, Cell: (613) 203-3233

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NAN Grand Chief concerned First Nation drinking water low on federal priority list

THUNDER BAY, ON, Nov. 1, 2006

Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Stan Beardy is shocked by federal snub of Ontario's actions to push agenda of safe drinking water in First Nation communities across the province.

"If the Government of Canada can't even commit to working with the
provincial minister responsible for Aboriginal issues to address the issues
facing First Nations in terms of safe drinking water and land claims
(Caledonia), how can we expect Minister Prentice to work directly with First
Nation leadership," said NAN Grand Chief Stan Beardy who recently demanded immediate action to implement both short-term and long-term solutions to various water emergencies in NAN territory - an area covering two-thirds of Ontario.

"Minister Ramsay was prepared to address the issue of safe drinking water and Prentice snubbed him. It's a shame that strong support from the provincial level isn't being recognized by the feds."

Beardy's comments come after Indian and Northern Affairs Minister Jim
Prentice cancelled a pre-scheduled meeting with provincial Aboriginal Affairs Minister David Ramsay yesterday evening. The meeting's agenda was to include the stand-off in Caledonia and First Nation water. Ramsay was prepared to request the Government of Canada take a leadership role at Caledonia and question the status of the federal safe drinking water report that was scheduled to be released by the end of October.

As relayed by Minister Ramsay's staff today, no alternate meeting time
was given by Minister Prentice's Chief of Staff who advised Ramsay of the
cancelled meeting while he waited in Prentice's Ottawa office just hours after confirming the meeting would, indeed continue.

"You'd think Prentice would want to step up and work together with Ontario, especially considering the current state of water emergencies that have been brought to light in the past few weeks," said Beardy.

Fearing increased risk to the health and safety of community members,
Marten Falls, Pikangikum, and Attawapaskat First Nations have declared water emergencies due to lack of capacity of water treatment plants, filtration and turbidity levels, contaminated intakes, and traces of carcinogens.

Nineteen of NAN's 49 First Nation communities are under boil water
advisory. Last week marked the one year anniversary of the evacuation of over 1000 residents of Kashchewan First Nation after e-coli was found in drinking water. In the Kelowna Accord (November 2005), the former Liberal Government of Canada outlined specific commitments to the James Bay coastal community in the areas of water, health, housing, and social services. The Conservatives have not fulfilled that deal, nor has an alternate deal been presented or implemented.

For further information: Jenna Young, Director of Communications,
Nishnawbe Aski Nation at (807) 625-4952 or (807) 628-3953 (mobile)

[Canada Reveals its Hand]

November Update From Six Nations Land Reclamation Site . . .

Canada finally laid its position on the table at the latest side table meeting of November 3rd 2006.

What was it? Basically in a nutshell their position is that "it doesn't matter if protocol was followed back in the 1800's, it doesn't matter if the monies that were supposed to paid for the lands were paid, it doesn't even matter if they followed the law at the time, it only matters that the courts today will find in canada's favour because they believe it was Six Nations intent to surrender the land".

They cited truck loads of documents that they have to back up their position.

The only truck required is the manure truck to take their load of b.s. away!

They even had the nerve to try to and flex their muscles by indicating that the peaceful negotiation process failed and that oh well, we tried; and further suggested that they are standing strong on their position with the Plank Road but would look at a more global approach.

They made this statement without even hearing Six Nations position. You know what that tells me? Canada doesn't want to admit its guilt and has no intention to.

All week in the media they've been tossing this issue back and forth like a hot potato, neither the province nor the federal government wanting to take responsibility. The Federal Government is citing that they are not responsible for pre-confederation treaties or land transactions.

Well then buddies, send in your Governor General or Her Majesty. Better yet, send in your pope because what this boils down to is the Law of the Land, and ultimately, we know clearly who holds title to that, and the trickery lies and deceit used to usurp that authority is well known in Creation.

Canada has the nerve to call Six Nations "lawless" and terrorists" because we adhere to the principals of our own law, the Kaierenekowah, and do not now, nor have we ever, acceded jurisdiction to the Crown.

We are not Subjects, We are Allies.

Yet today, what is Canada's defense .... they didn't have to follow the law! I guess that's their perogative. If that's the case, every single person who is in the process of buying a home, buy it, but don't pay for it. Canada says that the laws today will find in your favour because all they have to prove is intent. Better yet, all those who hold mortgages, stop paying for them. Canada says you don't have to. Furthermore, that would exempt everyone from paying taxes on our lands as well, so i think we should organize a big tax revolt. Stop paying your taxes, put it in a trust, and Six Nations will handle that trust. It won't matter if the monies get to benefit you, as the supposed title holder, we'll turn the tables and do as we see fit with those dollars because ultimately, what Canada is saying is that even though the Indian Agents at the time were lining their own pockets, bank rolling Canada at the expense of Six Nations, the law today will find in their favour. So what worked for them, should work for Six Nations.

Another reason they offered is that Six Nations had more warriors then the British had army, and that Six Nations insisted on creating their own leases, but because the British Crown refused to allow that, they were forced into disposing of our lands to look after all of the squatters. Of course, their position is that it was at the insistance of the Six Nations.

Well, given a couple of hundred years of population growth, the number of warriors of the Six Nations now, coupled with the alliance of the other Indigenous Nations that are standing in solidarity with us, I would say that we still have a stronghold on our territorial lands, and that the Crown had better realize this.

If they believe that the coercion, forceful and decietful tactics that they used in the past are going to continue today and that the Onkwehonweh are going to stand by and watch this fraud continue against our brothers and sisters across Turtle Island, they had better think again.

I am asking all Onkwehonweh of the World to send a clear and concise message of solidarity with the Six Nations to the Crown's representatives and remind them that their responsibility to honour and uphold the treaties, take responsibility for its actions of fraud and misappropriation of trust, and to come to the table with the intent to resolve the situation rather than to try and deter from the Truth; otherwise their actions are contrary to Peace.

The Onkwehonweh are standing strong and will continue to. We are not going to be bullied into acceptance of the biggest conspiracy and fraud known as Canada, and we will not tolerate Canada's attempt to be judge and jury in this case!

Main Table meets on the 9th of November, and Six Nations will be presenting its rebuttal to the history of the Crown at the lands side table on November 14th. Will keep you posted.

As far as life at the site, we have welcomed many visitors to the site in the past few weeks. Yesterday, there were visitors from Columbia who shared their history, which was pretty much the same as our's having gone through acts of genocide, theft and encroachment of their homelands etc. etc.; they were able to make a presentation at Chiefs Council as well. They will be sending us a flag when they go home.

Last week I received correspondence from supporters in Melbourne Australia and they are going to be sending two flags for us to fly in solidarity at the site. An Australian flag and their Aboriginal flag.

I am overwhelmed with all of the letters of unity and support, the visitors who stop in with supplies, for all of those individuals and organizations who have helped out financially, and to all those who keep sending their prayers......Nya Weh!

The United Nations of Love and Light will continue to Inflict Peace throughout the World and Truth and Justice for Creation will Prevail.

In Love Light and Peace,

Hazel

- - - - - - -

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Joseph Brant’s Skullduggery - Deposed by Six Nations in 1805.

MNN. Nov. 6, 2006. Joseph Brant, born a Mohawk and educated by the British, became a British subject, violating Wampum 58.

Under Wampum 35, he was appointed a Pine Tree Chief, a ceremonial position with no powers in council. “Should any man of the nation assist with special ability or show great interest in the affairs of the nation, if he proves himself wise, honest and worthy of confidence, the chiefs of the League may elect him to a seat among them and he may sit in the council of the League. He shall be proclaimed a “Pine Tree”, sprung up for the nation, and be installed as such at the next assembly for the installation of chiefs. Should he ever do anything contrary to the rules of the Great Peace, he may not be deposed from office. No one shall cut him down, but thereafter everyone shall be deaf to his voice and his advice. Should he resign from his seat and title, no one shall prevent it”.

A Pine Tree Chief has no authority to name a successor nor is his title hereditary. His sole responsibility was to translate. The British and their marionette, Brant, illegally sold and signed away large tracts of Mohawk land in New York State and Ontario. He and the British knew full well he had no authority to do this. Therefore, all his transactions were and are fraudulent.

Today Canada and Ontario are using Brant's phony land sales and giveaways as the basis for their claims to our lands. They know very well it doesn't hold water. The following deposition by the Six Nations Chiefs and War Chiefs was to inform everyone that Brant’s words and deeds were illegal. In 1808 he murdered his own son Isaac. He could never live with the Mohawks because of his treachery. Brant died in 1811 alone in his mansion in Burlington. Fifty years later, he was brought to Brantford where he lies in a Masonic grave. [The document is blurred and we have indicated on our transcript the illegible parts with a ? mark. We apologize for any indeliberate misnomers].

Brant Deposition, 1805.

Copy of a letter from the Chiefs of the Six Nations to Captain Parrish related to the deposition of Captain Brant in possession o.t.t.p.? in ( ceishok?of oBbuffalo)

Onondaga Village of Buffalo, March 30, 1805.

Brethren. It is (erst?) a few words that we, the Six Nations, wish to inform at this time, it is what have been saying at our fireplace in Buffalo Creek. As it is customary for the Six Nations to call Councils for the misconduct of chiefs so as to have all faults related here before such councils, we have learned from information that Captain Brant has not conducted himself to the satisfaction of the Six Nations and according to our Indian customs he is no more a chief. And we the Six Nations all of us agree is no longer to be noticed as a chief in the Six Nations. The following are the names of the principle chiefs in the Six Nations.

Mohawk War Chiefs

Servatoghkaronogaio

Oghnawoia

Oghwanghugawagh



Principle Onondaga Chiefs

Thatodaraho

Otyatarisosark

Tha---atgwane

Kaghnisyongoghto

Staskanishaugh

Otegwagghec

Ononweeghtireh

Kagoutenayen

Ateweanieei

Tkanighstate

Duestherighgoingh

Otsenonghyata

Osehahow

Skatraghthroinglid

Haerghko



Principle Seneca Chiefs

Hari---Brethren

? –

Yorsing King

Thatekarongas

Kanyatarigo

Thithoyou

Deghohonghtanyand

Dekanaghglonghishen

Kaghskaotern

Deyogengkoohen

Doenghisoase

Aniwaon

Satyonaonton

Ahentyeya



War Chiefs

Diskakee

Karontowanen

Dayoaghgwatekane

Kaneugaraton

Shanakane

Then ne agh gwa

Ska on waghske

Shatekayenton

Diskake

Onwatosogaghtoro

Katserote

Dekagh swaeghston

Oghoiyo

Deghagoughstoudaghgou

Arenghariskou

Aserik

Kahaste

Kanyataryo

Dawaghghiwaghskan

Kataragenyast

Theaghsontagoot

Oghanionyoto

Thagenjowaane

Shisnenatohe

Otyenagwen

Oghnightagowa

Jastotatya & Dekaentye



Principle Chiefs Oneida

Okawa, Joseph

Oghshonwaghtaggtto

Ateriyaghs

Dekagkae a tanagen

Shay hough hast

Kangenghtaghgo

Oersianysentera

Ataweriniese

Thonaghtorgen



Principle Cayuga Chiefs

Thouonwes

Detsinondawesho

Dekawenyon

Atag a seronne

Deyathoreyghgon

Thoronghyougo

Dyanweianon

Otsistone



Tuscarora Chiefs

Aghsbigwasisae

Dewaghtaghgoot

Shaghradowane

The above letter is endorsed on the back “Chiefs' letter respecting Captain Brant, April 15, 1805”. In the handwriting of Captain Parrish.

The British had this on file from the earliest times. This proves that the Six Nations have the law on our side and the documents to prove it.

MNN Mohawk Nation News

Kahentinetha2@yahoo.com