Re: British Columbia: Nuxalk arrests

Mark Westlund (ranmedia@ran.org)
31 Mar 1996 22:28:27 GMT


In article <512418636@ctsol.web.apc.org>, ctsol@web.apc.org wrote:

> I think it is important that when we wade into environmental issues
> we do not misrepresent the issues. In the long run it hurts all
> environmentalists and their struggle to save our planet.
>
> This is how this issue is viewed by the natives themselves.
>
> Nuxalk Chief, Archie Pootlass had this to say about
> unwanted Americans:
>
> "Forest Action Network is not welcome on our reserve. They came
> here like new colonists, with the attitude they new what's best for
> us. I'm amazed people admire environmentalists like them."

Things certainly do get complicated...

31 elders of the traditional Nuxalk Nation Government recently issued a
statement (March 21) that Archie Pootlas, tribal leader under Canada's
Indian Act, has no authority to speak on behalf of the Nuxalk. They are
extremely unhappy with his pro-logging negotiations with Interfor and the
BC Government.