Democracy Gone Astray

Democracy, being a human construct, needs to be thought of as directionality rather than an object. As such, to understand it requires not so much a description of existing structures and/or other related phenomena but a declaration of intentionality.
This blog aims at creating labeled lists of published infringements of such intentionality, of points in time where democracy strays from its intended directionality. In addition to outright infringements, this blog also collects important contemporary information and/or discussions that impact our socio-political landscape.

All the posts here were published in the electronic media – main-stream as well as fringe, and maintain links to the original texts.

[NOTE: Due to changes I haven't caught on time in the blogging software, all of the 'Original Article' links were nullified between September 11, 2012 and December 11, 2012. My apologies.]

Monday, January 23, 2012

First Nations talk strategy behind closed doors, as feds trumpet new land regime

More than 200 First Nations delegates filed into the Chateau Laurier’s ballroom Monday morning for a closed-door strategy session ahead of their Tuesday meeting with Prime Minister Stephen Harper and 11 members of his cabinet.

Among the notable chiefs, grand chiefs and other leaders to arrive early in the capital were National Chief Shawn Atleo and Attawapiskat’s Chief Theresa Spence. The NDP’s aboriginal affairs critic, Linda Duncan, was also in attendance.

Some chiefs have complained about the uncertainty of Tuesday’s schedule; in particular they want to know whether Harper will be in attendance for the full day, and who will have the opportunity to make presentations to him. This session is intended to clear things up.

Following a morning prayer and drumming ceremony, Atleo delivered opening remarks behind closed doors. The delegates then went over the agenda and logistics for Tuesday and met with their regional caucuses.

Meanwhile, the Conservative government is also laying the groundwork for Tuesday’s meeting. Aboriginal Affairs Minister John Duncan put out a slew of press releases Monday, announcing 18 new First Nations are on track to opt out of the land-related sections of the Indian Act and assume control over their reserve land and resources.

“The First Nations Land Management Regime has a proven track record of increasing economic development opportunities for First Nations,” Duncan said in a release. “Together with First Nations organizations and communities, we are working to build a future in which First Nations are self-sufficient and prosperous, making their own decisions, managing their own affairs and making strong contributions to the country as a whole.”

The government committed the funds to carry this out in the 2011 budget, but chose the eve of the historic meeting to release news about it — just as observers look for proof something has been learned from the Attawapiskat housing crisis.

The 18 First Nations that Duncan highlighted Monday hail from British Columbia across to Newfoundland and Labrador, including Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, Aitchelitz, Beausoleil, Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek, Buffalo Point, Haisla Nation, Long Plain, Mashteuiatsh, Membertou, Miawpukek, One Arrow, Shuswap, Skowkale, St. Mary’s, Stz’uminus, Tsuu T’ina, Williams Lake Indian Band and Yakweakwioose.

Original Article
Source: iPolitics 
Author: Sonya Bell 

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