Rainforest Action Network

Help Free Political Prisoners in Canada!

Six leaders of the KI Indigenous community are being jailed for peacefully refusing to allow mining exploration to proceed on their traditional lands in Ontario, Canada.

They've been sentenced to six months in prison.

This attempt by the Ontario government to bulldoze over Native rights using the courts and jails -- rather than seek resolution through negotiation and reconciliation -- is a deeply disturbing precedent.

Your letter can help free these political prisoners today. The government needs to see an overwhelming outpouring of public support.

Please write to the Ontario government today and demand the immediate release of these political prisoners.

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am writing to express my concern at the jailing of Ardoch Algonquin spokesperson Robert Lovelace, and the jail sentence for six leaders of the KI First Nation.

Both of these communities are non-violently standing up for their inalienable Indigenous human rights and for the land that gives life and meaning to their peoples. I am aghast at the harshness of the sentencing imposed for participation in a peaceful protest against mining exploration which was approved by the province of Ontario without any consultation and without the consent of these communities.

I support them in their stand because their struggle is my struggle.

It is obscene that the Ontario government is arresting peaceful protesters while it is allowing extractive industries to continue destroying the land and the way of life of these communities. Ontario and Canada portray themselves as shining examples of democracy and human rights for the world to emulate, all the while creating laws, policies, and practices that oppress and deny Aboriginal peoples' human right to life as distinct peoples.

I call on the government of Ontario to:

1 Release Robert Lovelace, and the KI Six. Drop all charges, fines, and penalties against First Nations who are non-violently protecting their traditional lands.

2)Respect all First Nations moratoriums on industrial activity.

3)Approve industrial activity only after it has gained the free, prior and informed consent of the indigenous communities whose traditional lands are being used.

I will continue to follow the stories of these communities closely and to take action in support of their efforts. I urge you to resolve these conflicts through reconciliation, respect, and justice.

Thank you,

Campaign Launched:
March 20, 2008