Immediate Release (Message from Chief Sacha)

For Immediate Release

June 15, 2020
Message from Chief Sacha

Good Afternoon,

Reflecting on the events that transpired on the evening of June 15th, we’re currently living in a tense climate that plagues this nation. All of these events, past and present deeply saddens me as a Mi’kmaq mother; sister, and daughter.
I’m writing to everyone today to share my empathy, and grief to all victims of Police Abuse, Discrimination, Systemic Racism, Marginalization & Prejudice. The frequency of incidents and lack of considerations highlight serious gaps in the current system, which leaves our vulnerable populations to fall through the cracks.

Just one year after the release of the Final Report for the MMIWG. To date, there has been no action plan released by the federal government.

It’s been 5 years since the release of the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commissions. To date, there has been no serious action on implementation.

Now more than ever we should move in the direction of education and reform and urge the provincial leaders to follow suit.

This week the Chiefs in New Brunswick will be meeting with the Justice Minister and Premiere Higgs, rest assured; the voices and concerns of all first nation families will be heard.

This Wednesday, June 17th, Chief and Council have unanimously agreed to stage a solidarity walk within the community. We understand that our region is at elevated risk with Covid-19, in response to this there will be strict measures for the public’s health and all measures will be mandatory to participate.

The walk will begin at 1:00 p.m. from the Band administration building in Eel River Bar. Volunteers will be on-site to assist with traffic and health guideline enforcement.

We’re extending an invitation to our sister first nation communities and neighboring municipalities. We encourage the participation of everyone, this isn’t only a first nations issue, this is a Canadian issue. This has to change; this has to stop. We stand for Chantel, we stand for Rodney, we stand for Metepenagiag. We stand for First Nations.

In peace and friendship,

Chief Sacha LaBillois