THUNDER BAY – Editorial – In Thunder Bay there is unity and growth in the Idle No More movement. The Thunder Bay Police are investigating a reported hate crime and attack on a 36 year old Aboriginal woman who states she was picked up on Blutcher Street by two Caucasian males, driven to a wooded area, sexually assaulted, strangled and beaten. Thunder Bay Police are investigating the incident.
From a statement issued on December 30th; “During the attack they told her it wasn’t the first time they had committed this type of crime and added, “it wouldn’t be the last.” They also told her “You Indians deserve to lose your treaty rights.” Making a reference to the current peaceful protests being undertaken by First Nations in Thunder Bay and throughout the country under the banner of Idle No More”.
That attack will focus the local efforts to protect Aboriginal rights as it has put violence and brutality as the response to what has been a peaceful series of ‘Teach-ins”.
The treatment of Aboriginal women is the focus of attention by a growing effort for a national enquiry into missing and murdered Aboriginal women. The attack in Thunder Bay on the Aboriginal woman was one where she was left for dead, and managed to walk out from where she was left to die, only opens the wounds deeper, and puts great focus on the need for change.
Idle No More Thunder Bay – Prayer Vigil
Tonight, the Thunder Bay Chapter of Idle No More will be holding a Women’s Candle Light Prayer Vigil at Fort William First Nation to pray for women that are lost and living, who have been murdered, raped and beaten. For more information visit Women’s Candle Light Prayer Vigil.
The focus of the local Idle No More is sharp and serious. The attack on another Aboriginal woman has put people on alert that the efforts are serious, and there are those who apparently are willing to use violence against those striving to their rights. “It’s a cruel world out there and right now with the First Nations trying to fight this Bill (Bill C-45) everyone should be looking over their shoulder constantly because there are a lot of racists out there and to be careful,” stated ‘Angela’ (the woman who was attacked – named has been changed).
