I am disappointed. The comments that are being espoused on social media and other public forums regarding the Wet'suwet'en protests, and the Aboriginal situation in general, bring both dismay and concern.
For centuries Canada has ignored the plight of Aboriginal people. Now that this is being brought before our collective minds in a measured way that is inconvenient, people are shouting for the RCMP, the military, and government to intervene. Yet, the underlying driver for these instances of civil disobedience is a call for Canada to honour its commitments and the rule of law. The same rule of law that the Supreme Court of Canada says includes both Aboriginal title and Aboriginal law.
Yes, the blockades are having an impact. Even now we hear rumblings about the limited supply of propane and the impact this will have on Islanders. I heat and power my home with propane. I also understand as a residential customer, I am low on the priority list. It would be painful for me to arrange other means of heating my home, cooking, and providing hot water. However, in comparison to what Aboriginal people have endured for centuries, this is but a small, temporary, and passing inconvenience.
Why should the rest of Canada enjoy unfettered access to simple things like clean water, roads, and adequate housing when a large portion of Canadians have no access to these basic human rights?
It is shameful that these injustices have been going on for as long as they have. It is to our continued shame for Canada to simply point a finger at the abused and vulnerable. We should, instead, be reaching out and doing the hard work of making the lives of all Canadians bearable, healthy, and enjoyable. I know we can do better, so why don’t we?
Jonathan Hamel
Belfast, PE
