This message comes in the form of a lobbying letter. It tells most of the
story, but more details could be obtained from Chief Larry Johnson, Box 153
- 216 Main Street, BOTHWELL ON N0P 1C0 (519)695-3642, Fax 695-2538.
Dear
The Caldwell Nation of Point Pelee, Pelee Island and surrounding
territory is the only first nation in Southern Ontario that does not have a
land base. In addition, the Caldwell Nation has the dubious distinction of
being the only first nation without reserve status in all of Ontario that
is not involved in negotiations to establish a land base, and moreover,
does not have the mechanism for entering into negotiations if it so
chooses.
Some people may argue that little can be done to correct bygone
injustices committed against the original sovereign nations that thrived in
the Americas before the arrival of the Europeans. None of us, however, can
make the same argument regarding the injustices that continue into recent
time, or that are perpetrated in the present.
The New Democratic government of Ontario has made a landmark
commitment to actualize the justified claims of First Nations. These
claims are legitimate on historical, cultural, legal and moral grounds.
They are consequently impossible to ignore. The Federal Government of
Canada has also indicated most recently a somewhat more enlightened
approach towards First Nations. I strongly urge both the Federal and
Provincial Governments to translate their verbiage into action with regards
to the Caldwell Nation's objective of land acquisition.
The Caldwell Nation submitted to Ontario and Canada in April of 1992 a
document entitled "The Caldwell Injustice: Two Hundred Years of Land
Negotiations." I recommend that the Federal and Provincial governments act
upon this thoughtful and persuasive document which includes a detailed
action plan, to immediately develop a process whereby negotiations can
commence towards the acquisition of a land base. In addition, I recommend
that any talks between the Government of Canada and Ontario concerning this
matter, only take place with Caldwell representatives in attendance. I
also strongly suggest that any government bureaucrats that are dragging
their heels in this matter, be replaced.
In conclusion the request of the Caldwell Nation for a land base is
both justified and long overdue. I respectfully request that the Federal
and Provincial Governments activate the process of negotiation and make a
priority, the achievement of a settlement that the Caldwell people can
accept with dignity for future generations.
Sincerely,
Federal Government - No stamp required!
The Right Honourable Brian Mulroney
House of Commons
OTTAWA ON K1A 0A2
The Honourable Tom Siddon Your own M.P.
Minister of Indian & Northern Affairs House of Commons
House of Commons OTTAWA ON K1A 0A6
OTTAWA ON K1A 0A6
--------------\---------------\--------------------\------------\-----------
Provincial Government - STAMP REQUIRED
The Honourable Bob Rae
Queens Park
TORONTO ON M7A 1A1
The Honourable Bud Wildman Your own M.P.P.
Minister of Native Affairs and Resources Queens Park
Queens Park TORONTO ON M7A 1A2
TORONTO ON M7A 1A2
This appeal posted by Harold P. Koehler, 43 Napoleon Drive
LONDON ON N5V 4A8 (519)453-5452, Fax 453-3676.