BC Metis Federation is notifying and encouraging Metis people in British Columbia to join various BC Metis Federation representatives with several First Nations, municipal representatives, local residents, and environmental groups in a show of support for the “Defending our Coast” rally at the BC legislature next Monday, October 22nd, 2012. This is a statement to ensure the Provincial Government understands the growing opposition to pipelines projects, such as the proposed Enbridge Northern Gateway Pipelines Project, that propose to carry tar sands products across pristine lands and increase tanker activity along the BC Coast.
There is free training being provided to anyone on October 21st to better understand what may or may not be various participation risks. BC Metis Federation representatives will attend Monday October 22nd and will be on the BC legislative site for 11:00 AM and will play a supportive role.
We hope to see our Metis people out in full force wearing your sash or Metis regalia with pride.
October 21st
11:00 am
Registration begins (Location UVIC Student Union Building – 3800 Finnerty Road (Ring Road)).
12:00 am – 8:00 pm
Training begins at 12:00 am (Location UVIC Student Union Building). Training will cover overviews of possible action scenarios, legal risks, and communication amongst others. Training session will be a full day and will be progressive. Folks that may risk arrest on the 22nd should plan on coming to the full training. Food will be provided.
October 22nd
9:00 am: Begin setting up at BC Legislature
11:00 am:
Meeting at the B.C. Legislature (everybody)
Speakers and peaceful non-arrestable rally led by YDA and B.C. First Nations.
12:00 pm:
Action begins. Clear areas for people who wish to risk arrest and those that do not will be identified. The nature of the action will change based on police and legislature response. Because of this an exact end time is difficult to pinpoint. The on-site coordination team will ensure a safe and united conclusion for all participants in this demonstration of the breadth and depth of commitment people have to Defending Our Coast from tar sands pipelines and tankers.