Let's Protect Beaver Pond

Photo credit: Paul Tucker

A message from Maude Barlow, Council of Canadians National Chairperson to those who were at the closing of the Sacred Fire at Queen's Park, where community members gathered to show solidarity with those protecting Beaver Pond.

I am sorry I could not be with you in person today because I remember well the power and unity that the sacred fire brought to us at Site 41. That unity between  First Nations people,farmers, cottagers and activists was key to the victory there.  

I have seen great leadership from Indigenous peoples around the world and the tremendous power and courage that comes when activists and First Nations work together.

A few months ago, I was part of a small group of people who met to discuss creating a campaign for the Great Lakes to be protected as a Commons.  Bob Lovelace was there and he spoke of the importance of understanding that each of us has an indigenous relationship to the Earth.  When we embrace that we find peace and strength. The traditions and history of First Nations play an important role in our current understanding of the Commons and I honour that contribution.

Our water campaigner Emma Lui attended the lighting of the Sacred Fire at Beaver Pond a few weeks ago.  We have asked our members to join us in supporting the call for the protection of Ottawa’s Great Forest and respecting the sacred lands there.

Thank you to Danny Beaton and all the firekeepers who have spent long nights tending the Sacred Fire.  May it burn forever in our hearts and minds.