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NEWS ARCHIVE

As of late July we are no longer continuing with updates. The following material is for archival purposes. For up-to-date info:

There is a long way to go before resolution is reached. Please continue to take action. Key current concerns:

  1. The colonial governments have been acting dishonorably for over 200 years. Nation-to-nation negotiations must move forward and must be accompanied by impartial, independent, international observation to ensure that Canada and Britain live up to their legal responsibilities and agreements.
  2. Six Nations people resisting colonial theft of their lands are not criminals. Charges must be dropped against the Six Nations people arrested on April 20. Investigation of the alleged incidents on June 9 is an internal matter for the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, not the colonial courts, to deal with.

News archive

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Wednesday, July 19, 2006: Two warrants issued relating to June 9 conflict with news crew

The Ontario Provincial Police announce warrants have been issued for two men from Akwesasne who have been charged with assaulting CH TV camera crew on June 9. Frank Burning, who was arrested and released on bail in June, did not appear at a scheduled hearing in the Cayuga colonial court. Ron Gibson has been charged with robbery and assault but has not yet been arrested.

Tuesday, July 18, 2006: Update from the reclamation site

Monday, July 17, 2006: OPP tries to shut down anti-reclamation website

The owner of an anti-reclamation website, "Caledonia Wake Up Call", tells press he will continue despite a letter from the Ontario Provincial Police Association (OPPA) to his internet service provider threatening a lawsuit. In a letter to Bluehost management, OPPA lawyer Megan Shortreed says the OPPA believes posters of officers and accompanying text are "... defamatory, harassing, threatening and pose a risk to the safety of the officers depicted". Apparently the OPP is not as concerned that Gary McHale, the owner of the site, calls the reclamation a "Native crime spree", accuses Six Nations people and supporters of committing "5000+" criminal acts, and has doctored photos of an Indigenous man on the "humour" section of the site.

Saturday, July 15, 2006: Annual border crossing reminder of indigenous rights

More than 150 indigenous people from across Turtle Island attend a yearly ceremonial procession through the Canada-U.S. border in Niagara Falls to commemorate a centuries-old treaty that recognizes their rights to freely move across the artificial colonial borders set by both countries. According to Ralph Summers, a member of the organization that sponsored the 79th annual border crossing, "The rights we have crossing this border are the same rights the people in Caledonia are entitled to as well. We're all brothers and sisters and we're all fighting for the same thing -- our rights, our land."

Thursday, July 13, 2006: Caledonia residents pack hall for meeting about class action lawsuit

In Caledonia, 150 non-indigenous residents attend a meeting at the Lions Hall to discuss joining a class-action lawsuit. The lawsuit, filed in Cayuga court by lawyer John Findlay last month, seeks damages from the County of Haldimand, OPP Commissioner Gwen Boniface, and Haldimand OPP detachment commander Brian Haggith, and the Ontario government has also been notified it will be added to the list. The lawsuit alleges that the county, OPP officials, and the province violated laws by "allowing" the closure of Argyle Street and the Highway Six bypass, and damage to a hydro transformer. If the suit is unsuccessful, those who sign onto it could be liable for legal costs.

Wednesday, July 12, 2006: Update from the reclamation site; Ontario government announces extension of economic support to non-indigenous businesses in Caledonia

Reporters from the Hamilton Spectator are taken on an hour-long tour to show that non-indigenous people living near the reclamation site do not have anything to fear from Six Nations people and supporters at the site. The media has focused on residents' claims that they are "living in terror", evoking racist stereotypes of "savages". In reality, Six Nations people and supporters have worked with the OPP to create a buffer zone between the reclamation site and residents' backyards, have reduced ATV traffic close to non-indigenous residents' homes, and taken other actions in response to concerns of non-indigenous neighbours. Reclamation spokesperson Hazel Hill sums up the media tour: "We've got nothing to hide. We're here in peace."

At a meeting between representatives of the Caledonia Citizens' Alliance and Ontario Ministers of Aboriginal Affairs, Economic Development and Trade, and Intergovernmental Affairs, the colonial government announces they will extend economic assistance to businesses in Caledonia. Assistance will be available for one more month, and businesses can now claim core wages retroactive to the start of the program. This is an increase in scope, but not in dollars (the original $500,000 transfer to Haldimand County will not be increased). There are still no plans to offer compensation to Indigenous businesses that suffered economically as a result of the state repression of the reclamation.

Tuesday, July 11, 2006: Front gate removed from reclamation site; Ontario government reaches agreement with building companies; internal investigation of OPP underway

In another gesture of good faith, the metal hydro structure barricading the front of the reclamation site is removed in the morning. Vehicles can now freely pass through the main driveway into the site from Argyle Street. According to reclamation spokesperson Janie Jamieson, people at the site decided to remove the front barricade as a sign that anyone who comes in peace is welcome to enter the site. "There's a bigger need to educate people than to have walls up."

According to a spokesperson for the Ontario Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal, the province has reached an agreement-in-principle with six builders who had financial interests in Douglas Creek Estates. The amount each builder will get is the subject of ongoing talks. The names of the companies are not being made public until a final agreement is signed.

Press report that members of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) professional standards bureau are investigating non-indigenous Caledonia residents' complaints that OPP officers have not taken action to protect them and their property. According to Karl Walsh, head of the OPP Association, the bureau will gather information and then notify the union and the officers involved if a complaint has merit to proceed to a formal stage and disciplinary charges under the Ontario Police Services Act. There is no mention of looking into witness reports of police using Tasers and pepper spray against Six Nations people and supporters, or beatings of unarmed Six Nations people, in the OPP's attempted removal of people from the reclamation site on April 20.

Saturday, July 8, 2006

Thursday, July 6, 2006: Residents lobby for wall to separate Caledonia from reclamation site

A group of Caledonia residents with homes bordering the reclamation site are asking the provincial and federal colonial governments for money to build a "bullet proof and flame proof fence" between their homes and the reclamation site, along with a "highway sound barrier type fence" between their homes and the railway track where people involved in the reclamation sometimes walk. Throughout the reclamation, mainstream media have focused on a small minority of vocal Caledonia residents who are promoting fear and hatred rather than more constructive resident groups such as Community Friends for Peace and Understanding with Six Nations.

Wednesday, July 5, 2006: Ontario judge threatens Six Nations people and supporters at third court hearing re enforcement of injunctions; Ontario government finalizes Henco buyout

Representatives of colonial governments, the Six Nations DIA band council, the Haldimand Law Association , Henco Industries, and Railink Canada Ltd. appear again before Superior Court Justice David Marshall today to review progress in resolving the conflict. Marshall ordered the hearing in June out of concern that his injunctions to remove Six Nations people from the reclamation site were not being enforced by the OPP. At the hearing, Hagersville lawyer Ed McCarthy (representing the Haldimand Law Association) asks for Haldimand County to go through the Emergency Measures Act to get "help from the military". Henco lawyer Michael Bruder confirms that the Ontario government has paid Henco $12.3 million to buy the land, and that an additional payment based on anticipated profits for Henco will be negotiated over the next 45 days. Although the buyout is expected to nullify the civil injunctions obtained against Six Nations people and supporters at the reclamation site, Marshall states that the contempt of court injunction still stands, and that he expects it to be enforced. Parties are ordered to return to court on July 24 to submit ideas on how to deal with the failure to enforce the injunction, with another hearing planned to discuss an "appropriate penalty" for contempt of court.

Saturday, July 1, 2006: Update from the reclamation site

Thursday, June 29, 2006: Land talks resume; third court hearing re enforcement of injunctions to be postponed; police plan heavy presence in Caledonia over weekend; Canada unsuccessful in blocking UN declaration

Talks between representatives of the Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) and Canada and Ontario governments are restarting today, with negotiators meeting at Ohsweken. According to the Ontario Secretariat of Aboriginal Affairs, talks will include a workplan to continue weekly Thursday meetings throughout July and August.

The rail line at Sixth Line is temporarily blocked as part of a day of action to protest Canada's ongoing colonial land theft and failure to live up to treaty agreements. The tires and ties on the tracks are removed in the early afternoon.

Press report that the hearing ordered for today by Ontario Superior Court Justice David Marshall (to review progress in resolving the conflict) will be postponed to July 5.

The Ontario Provincial Police announce that during Canada Day celebrations on the weekend, they will be increasing their numbers in Caledonia to "ensure that peace is kept realizing that there is a level of tension arising from the land reclamation issue". Non-indigenous Caledonia residents are apparently unconcerned about a possible repeat of the May 22nd Victoria Day mob swarming of the reclamation site. According to Roy Hawkins, pastor of the Caledonia Baptist Church near the entrance to the camp, "Caledonia people know that peace is better than conflict...I think the majority of Caledonia residents are peace-loving and don't want people out there making fools of themselves."

Despite Canada's opposition, the United Nations Human Rights Council approves the Draft Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (by a 30-2 vote). The declaration will now go to the UN General Assembly in the fall for final adoption. Initially prepared by the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1984 but not implemented because Canada, the US, Australia, New Zealand, and other colonial UN member countries did not agree on wording relating to indigenous control of their territories and resources. Although the declaration is not legally binding, supporters of the declaration point out that the UN's Universal Declaration of Human Rights was also not a binding document, but was a useful advocacy tool and over time became customary law in many countries.

Wednesday, June 28, 2006: Rotino’shon:ni request meeting with Governor General; another OPP arrest; plans change for rail blockade; launch of Caledonia community group in support of Six Nations

Rotino'shon:ni Women Title Holders announce they have sent a letter to the Governor General requesting a meeting to discuss the "invasion and occupation of Kaianereh’ko:wa/Great Law territory by the foreign governments of Canada and Ontario, their corporate agents, and assigns; the arrest of Rotino'shon:ni people for defending our land; and the refusal of representatives of Britain, of Canada as its successor state, and of Ontario, as a province of Canada, to abide by their obligations under the Charter of the United Nations".

The Ontario Provincial Police arrest a 36-year-old man for assault in connection with an incident involving a CH TV camera crew on June 9. The OPP is not releasing his name but says he is not one of the seven people named in the warrants issued June 10. The man has apparently been released on bail pending an appearance in the colonial court in Cayuga on July 19.

Indigenous leaders involved in plans for a 24-rail blockade in solidarity with Six Nations and to protest ongoing colonial land theft and failure to live up to treaty agreements announce they have reached an agreement with CN Rail to change the blockade to rallies that will not disrupt CN rail operations. As part of the agreement, CN will write to the colonial government urging the federal Indian Affairs minister to resolve outstanding "land claims".

A press release is issued announcing the launch of Community Friends for Peace and Understanding with Six Nations, an organization that includes Caledonia residents, members of the labor movement, community activists, and representatives from Six Nations. According to Caledonia resident and group spokesperson Jan Watson, "Many Caledonians support the land rights of Six Nations, and we believe that the only way the tensions between Six Nations and Caledonians can be overcome is by the federal government negotiating in good faith on a nation to nation basis."

At the other Caledonia residents' community meeting, the Caledonia Citizens' Alliance, which has consistently taken a confrontational stance towards the reclamation, the CCA notes that residents' reports to the OPP are down. There is no apology for the CCA's role in contributing to racist fear-mongering about home invasions, burning of Caledonia residents' houses, and other supposedly imminent violent attacks by "savages".

Tuesday, June 27, 2006: Overhaul of colonial "land claims" system = same old, same old; OPP and Haldimand County reach agreement on police communication

Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice says he plans a major "retooling" of the "badly flawed" colonial land claims process to prevent more land reclamations like the current one. Not surprisingly, the "retooling" will not address the absurdity of a colonial government saying indigenous people must prove their existence to "claim" land that is already theirs; nor will it address the illegality of colonial occupation and land theft. Instead, Prentice is focusing on speeding up the existing process by paying more colonial negotiators.

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) representatives meet with Haldimand County Council in a 90 minute closed session to discuss policing issues relating to the land reclamation and resulting backlash. Haldimand Councillor Lorne Boyko, who initiated the meeting, says he can't give details but that he is "satisfied with information provided" and that OPP Commissioner Gwen Boniface "heard all of council's concerns about policing related to the land dispute". A petition signed by 445 Caledonia residents calling for Boniface's removal is presented. The Haldimand County Police Services Board (HCPSB) announces that until the dispute is over, there will be direct liaison between the OPP and the HCPSB to assist in communication and "dispel rumours and speculation".

Monday, June 26, 2006: Ontario government releases discussion paper regarding "consultation" with indigenous people; Haldimand County council approves 20-year land seizure and development plan; Haldimand County Council suggests municipal police may replace OPP

The Ontario government releases a discussion paper with suggested guidelines for provincial colonial government consultation with indigenous communities. The draft guidelines include an overview of the colonial legal perspective on the requirements for consultation, and advice to government officials on how to fulfill the colonial system's requirements. The report starts with the statement "Ontario is charting a new course in its relationship with Aboriginal peoples. We are committed to establishing constructive, co-operative relationships that are based on mutual respect", but the content makes it clear this is the same old colonial story. "The [consultation] process does not generally provide the affected Aboriginal community with a veto over a proposed decision or action. But in some limited circumstances — for example, involving serious infringements of Aboriginal title — an Aboriginal community’s consent may be required."

At a council meeting, Haldimand County Council approves a 20-year development plan that will see Caledonia's boundaries expand to take in new land for "housing and commercial opportunities". The colonial government process involves the county's plan being sent to Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs, which has 180 days to review the document and discuss any concerns with county officials; after the ministry approves the plan, there is a 20 day appeal period.

At a press conference in Cayuga, Haldimand County Council members say residents of Caledonia are eager for the county to establish its own police force to replace the OPP. Haldimand’s contract with the OPP expires in September 2008.

Sunday, June 25, 2006: United Church holds "healing service"

Three churches in Brantford hold a service to recognize the 20th anniversary of the United Church of Canada's apology for the pain and damage caused by the church to indigenous people. "First Nations Sunday" has been held every year for the last 10 years, but Rev. Barry Pridham of Sydenham United says the conflicts in Caledonia have brought about higher attendance this year as there is "greater interest in fostering peace and good relations....The annual service provides an opportunity to acknowledge the difficulties in sharing this land in a just way".

Saturday, June 24, 2006: Federal Liberal candidate criticizes lack of federal government involvement

At a "meet and greet" with Liberals in Hamilton, Michael Ignatieff, campaigning to become the next leader of the federal Liberal party, criticizes the federal Conservative Party for their stance on the land reclamation. "[There is a] serious aboriginal claim...that has to be respected."

Friday, June 23, 2006: OPP issue seventh arrest warrant; Coyle's report released to press; Six Nations flags stolen from Brantford sites

The Ontario Provincial Police announce they have issued a seventh warrant relating to the altercation with two camera crew from CH TV on June 9th. Timothy Jamieson has been charged with robbery, assault, and obstruction of police.

The report written for the colonial federal government by "fact finder" Michael Coyle in April is released to press. The report says the major barrier to resolution is the refusal of the provincial and federal colonial governments to take responsibility for addressing land conflicts. "Each takes the position that it is confident that if the Crown is liable for wrongdoing in relation to Six Nations' land claims, it is the other government that is legally responsible". Coyle calls for "reasonable sharing" of responsibility between the provincial and federal governments.

Two Six Nations flags and a Mohawk unity flag put up in Brantford to draw attention to land theft along the Grand River are stolen. Reclamation spokesperson Janie Jamieson says to press, “It doesn’t surprise me....People have been playing capture the flag with our flags for quite a while.”

Thursday, June 22, 2006: McGuinty calls for Six Nations to leave reclamation site; Henco to be paid $12.3 million plus additional money for "loss of future profits"; OPP turns control of 6th Line over to Six Nations police; negotiators say discussions are progressing; Six Nations flags go up in Brantford as reminder that land theft extends beyond Caledonia; CN Rail in court to try to halt planned blockade

Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty asks Six Nations people to leave the reclamation site, saying there's "no need" for an ongoing presence as the colonial government is now "paying attention" to the issue of land theft. "We are not leaving and going home," says reclamation spokesperson Janie Jamieson. "We are already home. It is our land."

The Ontario government announces that it has agreed to pay $12.3 million to buy out Henco, with ongoing negotiations for "an additional amount to be paid for the loss of future profits". The money paid to Henco does not include six builders who own 25 lots in the disputed site, and are negotiating a separate agreement with the Ontario government.

The Ontario Provincial Police announces that Six Nations police will temporarily be responsible for responding to calls from 6th Line, a county road running along the edge of the reclamation site. The interim policing change agreement, which has not been passed as an official resolution by Haldimand County Council and has no end date, was made to ensure that people living in the area OPP have agreed to treat as a "no go zone" still have access to policing services. A former senior officer for the OPP rejects the decision, stating to press, "They can't do that. People pay their taxes for policing by the OPP". Ken Hewitt, spokesperson for the Caledonia Citizens' Alliance, says the "lawsuits are coming...because the OPP have completely disregarded their contract (with Haldimand County)".

The Ontario Secretariat for Aboriginal Affairs issues a press release stating that the "Haudenosaunee/Six Nations-Canada-Ontario Main Negotiation Table has continued its progress towards a peaceful resolution of outstanding issues....All parties have agreed to a basic framework for an implementation strategy, including work on relationships among the parties, land issues, and addressing local tensions....Ongoing discussions will continue among the parties at the Main Negotiation Table with the next planned meeting for June 29, 2006."

Six Nations flags and a Mohawk unity flag go up on two sites in Brantford -- a proposed power centre at Wayne Gretzky Parkway and Henry Street, and a house on the top of West Street hill that the owner left to Six Nations in his will. Reclamation spokesperson Janie Jamieson says to press, "This is to let people know that the issue in Caledonia and with the Confederacy isn’t limited to the postage stamp property at Douglas Creek....With the push to develop southern Ontario, people need to understand the land mass that’s involved in our situation. Our rights are being violated up and down the Grand. Right now, the spotlight is on Caledonia, but in reality all of these others parcels of land will be affected, including much of Brantford.” According to Brantford Mayor Mike Hancock, "The people in Brantford are generally very supportive."

CN Rail appears in a Vancouver courthouse seeking an advance injunction against a 24-hour rail blockade planned for June 29. The blockade action was endorsed at a May meeting of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs as a show of strength, solidarity with Six Nations, and to protest the ongoing colonial theft of indigenous lands and failure to live up to treaty agreements.

Wednesday, June 21, 2006: Judge again pushes for end to reclamation; OPP arrest Six Nations man; Caledonia Citizens Alliance protests at Ontario legislature; colonial governments meet to discuss "duty to consult"; indigenous organizations reflect on reclamation during "National Aboriginal Day"

Ontario Superior Court Justice David Marshall appears in Cayuga court and, for a third time, summons the commissioner of the OPP, representatives of the Ontario and federal Canadian governments, representatives of the local Crown office, the Six Nations DIA band council, the Haldimand Law Association, Henco Industries, and Railink Canada Ltd. to appear before him on June 29 and "explain why his orders continue to be flouted". At a hearing last week, the group reported "good progress" in resolving the conflict -- including the Ontario government buyout of Henco and removal of the remaining barricades -- and stated they saw no need to meet again with Marshall in the near future. In issuing the summons to appear, Marshall states he expects be kept informed of developments to "properly monitor the matter and to make any appropriate order in the face of ongoing contempt, outstanding injunctions and outstanding warrants or arrests", and to give people in Caledonia "some idea when the contempt will end".

Ken Hill, a Six Nations man from Ohsweken, is arrested early in the morning in Cayuga. Hill faces two counts of assault in relation to a confrontation between a mob of non-indigenous Caledonia residents and people from the reclamation site (after a police cruiser entered a "no go" zone on June 4). Hill is to appear in the colonial court in Cayuga on July 16. After five days in jail, Audra Taillefer is released on $10,000 cash bail, with the colonial court ordering her to remain in Ontario but stay out of Caledonia.

Approximately 70 Caledonia residents bus in to the Ontario legislature to protest the province's and OPP's response to the Six Nations land reclamation, and Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty meets with several members of the group "to hear their concerns". In the ongoing distortion of the peaceful nature of the reclamation, press and non-indigenous Caledonia residents continue to whip up fear about violence, saying that there are rumours that "Six Nations members are prepared to use aggressive tactics to claim more land along the Grand River" and that non-indigenous people cannot rely on police for "protection". Karl Walsh, president of the Ontario Provincial Police Association, says OPP Commissioner Gwen Boniface should be "forced to answer" for her management of the OPP response to the reclamation -- a situation he characterized as "anarchy".

A local paper reports that officials from the Ontario government and Haldimand County chief administrative officer Bill Pearce joined municipal representatives from Waterloo, Kitchener, Cambridge, Waterloo Region, Brant and Brantford in a closed meeting to discuss Supreme Court of Canada rulings relating to the "duty to consult and accommodate treaty rights of First Nations" when developments are proposed in their territories. Last week, Brantford City Council declined the Ministry's request to host the planning meeting, saying that there is "a big question mark as to the purpose of the meeting" and questioning the lack of involvement of Six Nations. At the time Brantford Councillor Marguerite Ceschi-Smith stated, "If the focus is on land, notification and development, I don't know why we wouldn't invite our neighbours at Six Nations. The Confederacy and the elected council should be at the table. If I was them I'd be upset."

Roseau River announces it will peacefully blockade two CN rail lines for 24 hours from June 29-30 in solidarity with Six Nations and to send a message to the colonial governments that ongoing land theft and dishonouring of existing treaties will not be tolerated.

Indigenous organizations and individuals interviewed by press for "National Aboriginal Day" discuss the impact of the land reclamation and the accompanying repression. Hamilton's Committee Against Racism and the aboriginal youth advisor at a Hamilton high school describes a pervasive anti-native backlash, with multiple incidents of indigenous youth being the targets of racist verbal harassment. Despite the backlash, Pat Green, program co-ordinator at Healing of the Seven Generations in Kitchener, says the land reclamation is a source of strength and pride that has united indigenous people. "We do have a voice and we are exercising our voice. It's about time."

Tuesday, June 20, 2006: Ontario government to offer "compensation" to non-indigenous Caledonia homeowners; Canada to oppose UN draft declaration on indigenous rights; DIA band council leader faces possible impeachment

David Ramsay, Ontario Aboriginal Affairs minister, states to press that in addition to providing money to non-indigenous business owners, the provincial government wants to provide financial assistance to non-indigenous Caledonia homeowners who "feel they have suffered" as a result of the land dispute. When asked if this might include buying homes or paying compensation for "psychological trauma", Ramsay states to press he is not ruling out any possibilities at this point -- he wants to "hear from homeowners" about their needs. Although the Ontario government is refusing to disclose the dollar amount paid to Henco Industries, according to Ramsay the government agreed to pay Henco "fair market value".

The federal Canadian government warns they will vote against the UN Draft Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples if it comes before the new UN Human Rights Council at its inaugural session (June 19-30). Initially prepared by the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1984 but never implemented because UN member countries did not agree on its wording, the draft declaration is not legally binding, but would be a symbolic gesture that shows countries support the sovereign rights of aboriginal people. In a joint statement last month, the United States, Australia and New Zealand rejected the assertion that aboriginal people have the right to "self-determination," saying it was inconsistent with international law. Today, Canadian Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development Jim Prentice says he will oppose the declaration because "it's quite inconsistent with land-claims policies under which Canada negotiates claims".

The DIA Band Council discusses a campaign to impeach leader Dave General. Six Nations man Wes Elliott says he has sufficient names on a petition to start an impeachment process against the chief councillor. General won 30 per cent of the votes for chief councillor in 2004. He has spoken out publicly against the land reclamation, and opposes the Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) replacing the DIA band council system.

Monday, June 19, 2006: Response to archeological assessment exposes racist stereotypes

The sensationalistic hysteria about "violent natives" promoted at Caledonia community meetings last week continues. In response to excavation relating to an archeological assessment of the reclamation site (agreed to by the Ontario government in negotiations with Six Nations representatives), non-indigenous residents state to press that holes are being dug to create bunkers and weapons caches.

Sunday, June 18, 2006

Saturday, June 17, 2006: No news

Friday, June 16, 2006: Indigenous woman turned over to OPP; Ontario government buys out Henco and promises more money for Caledonia businesses and non-indigenous residents; Burtch lands planted; thousands attend benefit concert; US ATF confirms involvement in surveillance of Six Nations; OPP Commissioner calls for land conflict to be resolved by governments, not police; colonial government releases growth plan

Six Nations reserve police arrest Audra Taillefer, one of seven indigenous people facing charges after a series of clashes last Friday, and turn her over to the OPP. Charged by the OPP with intimidation and robbery, Taillefer is being held pending a hearing at the colonial remand court in Cayuga to set a date for trial. Six others with warrants pending remain at large.

At a Ontario Superior Court hearing called by Justice David Marshall to discuss progress in addressing the land dispute, the Ontario government announces: that it (1) has signed an agreement-in-principle with Henco for a buyout of "Douglas Creek Estates", and will hold the land "in trust" until land agreement is reached between the Haudenoniso and colonial governments, and (2) will be providing another $1 million to help Caledonia-area businesses affected by the dispute. Reclamation spokesperson Janie Jamieson points out, “Title and jurisdiction isn’t placed back with Six Nations, is it? And that’s what the issue is....They haven’t begun to resolve anything with us, but as far as corporate Canada — they’ve done everything to appease them”.

Mainstream news coverage

Colonial government statements

At an evening community meeting at Six Nations Polytech to update Six Nations people on progress in land negotiations, Confederacy sub-chief Leroy Hill explains that the colonial government is being required to conduct an environmental assessment and clean-up before title on the Burtch lands is transferred (so Six Nations will not end up paying to restore lands damaged by the colonial government). In the interim, Six Nations farmers have planted 260 acres of soybeans on the land. Hill also confirms that Ontario crisis negotiator David Peterson has been removed by the province and that Jane Stewart is now the primary negotiator for Ontario.

A 12-hour benefit concert to support the Six Nations reclamation of Kanenhstaton ("the protected place") is attended by an estimated 8,000 indigenous and non-indigenous people. The concert raised $22,000 to help with costs associated with the land reclamation.

Confirming earlier reports by Six Nations people, the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (commonly known as the "ATF") admits it has been involved in surveillance at the reclamation site. According to ATF special agent Joseph Green, the ATF has been in Caledonia to "share best practices and information with the OPP". The ATF is a specialized American force responsible for fighting terrorism and violent crime, and is best known for its raid on a religious compound in Waco, Texas, in the early 1990s that left dozens of people dead. "They're trying to peg us as terrorists now," says reclamation spokesperson Hazel Hill.

At the inquiry into the murder of Dudley George by a OPP officer in 1995, OPP Commissioner Gwen Boniface apologizes to the family of Dudley George and states, "Land grievances must be addressed....These grievances cannot and will not ever be resolved by police services". According to Boniface, the approach taken by the OPP to the Six Nations land reclamation represents a "new framework", adopted by the OPP in January, to guide police response to indigenous resistance to land theft. Ontario crisis negotiator David Peterson describes the siege as "very tough -- as tough as things get...But this didn't turn into an Oka or an Ipperwash and I don't think it will."

The Ontario Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal releases their final Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe. The document, which lays out a 25-year plan for settler encroachment (with 4 million more settlers anticipated by 2031), is the first growth plan to be released under the 2005 Places to Grow Act. Colonial development plans include Haldimand County, Brant County, Kitchener-Waterloo, and other lands that are part of the Haldimand Tract. There is no mention of Six Nations in the planning document.

Thursday, June 15, 2006: Land talks resume; businesses continue to experience the cost of colonialism

Land talks between the Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) and the Ontario and Canada governments restart today, with a conference call planned for Friday and meetings scheduled next week. Ken Hewitt, spokesperson for the Caledonia Citizens Alliance, claims that Ontario negotiator Jane Stewart "made it clear to us that that land (Douglas Creek) will never be transferred to native ownership".

Two tourism businesses along the Grand River say public perceptions of the land reclamation are negatively affecting their bookings. According to Grand Experiences and the Heritage River Canoe and Kayak Company, a European company has cancelled six group trips and other groups and individuals have asked if there is a risk that the river might be blockaded.

Wednesday, June 14, 2006: Colonial court imposes 1-day jail sentence on Apr 20 arrestee; Brantford city council objects to Ontario ministry planning development without involvement of Six Nations; national company considering massive development in Caledonia; Ontario government to meet with Henco owners

After wishing April 20 arrestee David Martin "Good luck" and stating, "I hope you and the other native leaders can find a way out of this problem," a Cayuga judge sentences Martin to one day in jail and a year's probation. Trying to help people at the reclamation site who were under attack by the OPP on April 20, Martin sped through police lines outside the site; he was forced to stop when police smashed his windows and dragged him from his truck. Martin pled guilty to dangerous driving and to fleeing police. Jeffrey Henhawk, also arrested April 20, appears in court and is remanded until July 12.

Despite concerns expressed by Brantford City Council about exclusion of Six Nations, the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs is going ahead with a meeting of colonial governments to discuss development in the Haldimand Tract. Brantford City Council declined the Ministry's request to host a planning meeting of seven municipalities in the Grand River watershed, saying that there is "a big question mark as to the purpose of the meeting". Brantford Councillor Marguerite Ceschi-Smith states, "If the focus is on land, notification and development, I don't know why we wouldn't invite our neighbours at Six Nations. The Confederacy and the elected council should be at the table. If I was them I'd be upset."

A national real estate developer is reported as being "poised to invest" in more than 200 hectares of property, with a plan to build 2,500 homes in and around Caledonia. Bruce MacDonald, a Royal LePage real estate broker who is negotiating the deal along with broker Ron Hewitt, says to press that "construction depends on a number of conditions related to municipal approvals" and that "native land claim issues are not a concern for the developer".

The Ontario government is scheduled to meet today with Don and John Henning, owners of Henco Industries. Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty says to press that the government will move as quickly as possible to offer "fair compensation" to the Hennings, and states in the legislature "we're working as quickly as we can to get the land out of the scenario by looking to compensate the developer in question".

Jason Clark and Ralph Luimes of the Caledonia Citizens' Alliance report that a federal Canadian government representative has joined their weekly Wednesday meeting with Jane Stewart and the OPP.

Tuesday, June 13, 2006: Remaining barricades come down; land talks back on; plans for 24-hour railway blockade announced; Caledonia residents announce "self-defense" plan; Waterford councillor whips up fear about Hydro tower

Six Nations people and supporters work throughout the night to remove the barricade on the Highway 6 bypass. Camp spokesperson Janie Jamieson states to press, “In order to keep talks moving, the chiefs and clan mothers gave directions to have them opened”. After a highway inspection the road is re-opened shortly after 3 PM.

Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty responds in the morning by saying the removal of the barricade of the Highway-6 overpass is a positive step but is not enough to get the provincial government to return to land negotiations, and calls on Six Nations to "cooperate with the OPP" to facilitate the arrest of the six people charged on Friday. Characterizing the situation as "a powder key that's about to blow", Federal NDP leader Jack Layton demands that Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper get personally involved to bring about a peaceful end to the land dispute.

Despite the colonial government's aggressive stance, Six Nations people extend their goodwill and remove the last remaining barricade, allowing access to the rail line. In the afternoon, commenting on the removal of both blockades, McGuinty says, "I think there has been a demonstration of good faith on the part of the First Nation leadership. I think it's time for us to get back to the table and finish this job." Federal minister Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice states, “This goes a long way to removing a huge source of tension in the community and to build trust. We are encouraged.”

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs announces they have passed a resolution supporting a 24-hour railway blockade set for June 29th 2006, "to force the Canadian government to establish a reasonable time-frame for settlement of land claims." Roseau River will block two railway lines going into the United States, and six other Manitoba First Nations have vowed to block railway lines at the same time.

Sensationalistic hysteria about "a threat of native violence" continues to pervade Caledonia. Ignoring Six Nations' repeated statements about a desire to live in peace with non-indigenous people, at the Caledonia Citizens' Alliance's second public information session non-indigenous individuals living close to the reclamation site say they are terrified that they will be attacked by people from the reclamation site. A "resident response plan" created by Hamilton police officer David Hartless is circulated on Braemar Avenue and Thistlemoor Drive urging homeowners to sound car alarms or horns "in the event a home or resident comes under attack", so neighbours could rush to the area supposedly under attack and collectively "gather and confront native protesters, to force them" back onto the reclamation site. Hartless states, "The OPP response has been largely ineffectual and it is now apparent that in order to protect ourselves, our families and our homes, we must do so collectively and present a united front." Despite OPP and Hydro statements that Hydro operations are normal and that there is a round-the-clock police presence at the Hydro transformer vandalized on May 22, Waterford Councillor Harold Sonnenberg tells Norfolk Council that the transformer is unguarded and "vulnerable to attack". One resident has been writing letters to the US embassy warning that "bunkers" large enough to hold "explosives, ammunition and rocket launchers" are under construction.

Monday, June 12, 2006: Colonial governments call off negotiations; OPP admits loss of classified information; businesses launch class action suit against OPP and Haldimand County; soldier from Caledonia says army should not be called in

The Ontario and federal Canadian governments say they will not continue negotiations as planned on Thursday unless the remaining barricades come down and Six Nations assists the OPP in investigation the incidents from the weekend. Tekarihoken (Kanyen'kehaka Royaner Allan McNaughton) states that the seven people facing charges from Friday will not be turned over to the OPP as they "remain under our laws and our jurisdiction".The Ontario Conservative party says calling off negotiations is insufficient, and "there has to be a deadline by which some action will be taken to make sure those barricades come down". When asked by a reporter what he will do if the barricades do not come down, Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty says, "We'll see". Haldimand County passes a resolution requesting that negotiations be suspended until all barricades are removed, the rail line re-opened, and "all Native occupiers are removed to a safe distance (to be determined by the County)".

The Ontario Provincial Police admit they have lost classified documents and appeal to media who have been given copies to return them. The documents, which contain the identities and home phone numbers of undercover OPP and US officers, details of surveillance operations, and information from informants, were taken by Six Nations people Friday from a seized police car, and returned after copies were made. A copy was given to Lynda Powless, publisher of the weekly Turtle Island News, who then gave a copy to the Hamilton Spectator. Ontario Community Safety Minister Monte Kwinter states to press that the OPP may "have to be replaced by another force" in Caledonia. “The OPP are going to have to determine (if the theft compromises) their activities.” According to the OPP, all affected officers and informants have been notified, and "special precautions" are now in place to "insure their safety".

Arguging that they have suffered "extreme financial loss" from the road closures, two Caledonia businesses announce the launch of a class action lawsuit against Haldimand County, OPP Commissioner Gwen Boniface, and the Cayuga Detachment Commander of the OPP. In addition, the plaintiffs have put the Government of Ontario on notice that they intend to add them as defendants to the action. Lawyer John Findlay, representing the local Dairy Queen franchise and the St. George Arms (a pub-style restaurant) that launched the suit, states to press that the suit is based on "the failure of the parties to keep roads open and follow court injunctions issued in March to remove the protesters from Douglas Creek Estates".

In an interview with Sergeant Daryl Schuch, back home in Caledonia on a two-week leave of duty from Afghanistan, Schuch states he does not believe the army should be called in to Caledonia. "This isn't what we do," says Schuch, who was part of the 1990 military siege of Mohawk people at Kanehsatà:ke/Oka.

Sunday, June 11, 2006: Confederacy calls for respect of their investigation; Canada and Ontario politicians demand removal of two remaining blockades

In a press release the Haudenosaunee Confederacy states that the individuals named by the OPP as being suspects in Friday's incidents were brought before the Confederacy Chiefs and Clan Mothers to assist in investigation of the events and that the investigation is continuing. The Confederacy reminds the OPP and Canadian governments that the relationships between Canada and Six Nations as described in the Two Row Wampum belt and the Silver Covenant Chain are based on respect for the sovereignty of each government, and an agreement to not interfere with the affairs of the other government.

Jim Prentice (Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Metis and Non-Status Indians) and David Ramsay (Ontario Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs) release a joint statement calling the two protective blockades "a continued threat to public safety", and asking that the barricades be removed "as a matter of urgency" so "all involved can focus their resources and efforts to the task of resolving the outstanding issues at the table". Camp spokesperson Janie Jamieson reaffirms the commitment to the land reclamation: "We're still focused. We still know why we're there."

Saturday, June 10, 2006: Arrest warrants issued for seven people; Canada's Chief of Defence says he doesn't expect military to get involved; Canadian Professional Police Association passes resolutions calling for peaceful resolution and federal involvement in negotiations

Camp spokesperson Hazel Hill's most recent update is strongly recommended for an on-the-ground analysis of yesterday's incidents.

Deputy OPP commissioner Maurice Pilon announces that arrest warrants have been issued for six indigenous people who were allegedly involved in altercations on Friday, with a warrant pending for a seventh suspect. The charges include attempted murder, assault of a police officer, assault causing bodily harm, theft of a motor vehicle, robbery, forcible confinement, intimidation, and dangerous driving.

Following a speech to radio and TV news directors, Gen. Rick Hillier, Canada's chief of defence staff for the Canadian Forces, says to press he doesn't expect the military to get involved in the dispute any time soon. "We believe that's a police operation...Of course, having said that, in any instance in Canada, of course we stand by with generic plans to move to help Canadians if the government of Canada decides to use us, but in this case, we're not doing any planning specifically for Caledonia."

Friday, June 9, 2006: Haldimand-Norfolk MP urges OPP invasion; McGuinty threatens to cancel negotiations after assaults alleged; three arrests after town mob swarms toward reclamation site; Caledonia Citizens' Alliance holds community meeting

In the morning, Canadian cabinet minister and Haldimand-Norfolk Conservative MP Diane Finley urges the Ontario government to send police in to remove Six Nations people from their land to "return the town to normalcy." Tom Bernard of the Caledonia Citizen's Alliance, who received the letter from Finley, states to press, "That was incredible when I saw that. That is totally out of line...That's not the solution. It's past that now." Haldimand County Mayor Marie Trainer, removed as spokesperson by her council in April after making racist comments, says to press she understands Finley's perspective as the reclamation is "so upsetting to everyone. It just seems a disrespect for the laws and Canada".

In the afternoon, a non-indigenous couple who make racist comments to people at the reclamation site are followed to the Canadian Tire parking lot and confronted. Two CH-TV camera crew members who film the clash are beaten after they try to stop Six Nations people and supporters from taking the tape from the news camera, with 15 OPP officers allegedly standing by and refusing to intervene. US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms officers and OPP officers taking pictures of the reclamation site are dragged from their vehicle and the car driven toward a police officer who is injured as he is pulled from its path. Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty threatens to cancel negotiations, and one OPP officer says to press it's time to bring in the military. As camp spokesperson Hazel Hill points out, "What needs to be understood is that the incidents of today, are a direct result of the constant intimidation tactics of the opp and others of the military, the continued racial discrimination being shown, not by us, but by the Caledonia people...all of which lead up to the ultimate goal of the government. To justify stopping the talks at the negotiating table...The violence that occurred is not something that we are proud of, but it is something that we completely understand knowing and understanding the underhanded and direct attempts at inciting the action required to justify another attack against our people, and to make it look like we are uncontrollable." The Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) issue a statement saying they don't condone violence in any form, that the indigenous individuals involved in the incidents have been removed from the reclamation site until Six Nations complete its own investigation, and that individuals involved "will be dealt with in a manner harmonious with the Great Law of Peace."

At 6 PM 300-400 non-indigenous Caledonia residents gather near the Canadian Tire parking lot, demanding the OPP explain their inaction earlier in the day. The crowd then moves to Notre Dame Catholic Elementary School, where only a chainlink fence separates the mob from Six Nations people and supporters at the reclamation site. At 9:30 PM, 60 OPP officers in riot gear move in, form a line across the road, and attempt to push residents back. Two mob participants are arrested by the OPP and a third is taken into custody.

The Caledonia Citizens' Alliance holds the first of a series of public information sessions. Presenters state to participants that land negotiations are being held up because "the natives have been unable to find a representative" who the colonial government considers to have "legal" status (!), and that the Ontario government is considering placing Kanenhstaton / "Douglas Creek Estates" in a land trust to be owned by Haldimand County.

Thursday, June 8, 2006: OPP Association holds meeting; Haldimand County lifts state of emergency; Ontario government gives Haldimand County $160,000 for business promotion

The Ontario Provincial Police Association holds a private meeting in Caledonia to hear the concerns of OPP officers who say that their commanding officers are not following established standard training and operations policies and procedures. "Due to the political pressures and optics involved with this, the OPP seems to be bending their own rules, while sacrificing officer safety," states OPPA President Karl Walsh to press. The OPPA is angry that its officers are being held back from "doing their job" and feels "powerless" to enforce the law.

After Hydro One tells Haldimand County repairs to the transformer damaged on May 22nd are complete, the County officially lifts the State of Emergency status for Caledonia.

The Ontario government and Haldimand County announce an additional $160,000 will be given by the province to the county to support a promotional print and radio advertising campaign by Haldimand County staff and the Caledonia Economic Development Recovery Committee. The campaign will focus on tourism and business promotion.

Wednesday, June 7, 2006: One hundred indigenous leaders come to reclamation site to show support; land negotiations to restart

On the night before the 100th day of the reclamation, 100 leaders from territories occupied by the Ontario government come to the reclamation site to show support and to remind the federal and provincial governments that land theft is an ongoing problem throughout "Canada" that can no longer be avoided or suppressed. Tekarihoken (Kanyen'kehaka Royaner Allan McNaughton) says that despite the Ontario government reneging on some of its promises over the last few weeks, with negotiations with Ontario and Canada delegates scheduled to begin again today he is still "hopeful" that a peaceful resolution will happen.

A lawyer for former Ontario premier Mike Harris calls for current premier Dalton McGuinty to apologize and withdraw remarks made Tuesday in the Ontario legislature. Peter Downard, lawyer for Harris in the Ipperwash inquiry, says McGuinty's Tuesday comments imply that the former leader of the Conservative Party directed the OPP to attack unarmed indigenous people in 1995 -- an allegation which Harris has denied in testimony before the inquiry. Characterizing McGuinty's comments as "irresponsible smear tactics" Downard states in a public letter that, "If you make such statements again outside the legislature, either expressly or impliedly, legal proceedings will immediately be commenced against you".

Tuesday, June 6, 2006: Email calls for rally against Six Nations lacrosse team; McGuinty defends Liberals' response to land reclamation

An anonymous email circulates encouraging non-indigenous Caledonia residents to rally at the Haldimand County Caledonia Centre Wednesday night to disrupt a lacrosse game staged by the Six Nations Minor Lacrosse Association. The email says the purpose of the rally is to "restrict access to the arena to people who are not welcome in our community."

Ontario premier Dalton McGuinty dismisses the passing of a motion in the Ontario legislature criticizing his response to the land reclamation, portraying the Liberal party as peaceful, "patient", and "responsible" (!), and states to press he will not convene an inquiry.

Monday, June 5, 2006: Tory "law and order" motion passes; no aid planned for businesses affected by damaged hydro tower

The Ontario Conservative Party motion calling for an inquiry into the Ontario government’s response to the Six Nations land reclamation passes. The motion, which calls upon the government to “recognize that the premier’s procrastination and failure to show leadership when it was most needed allowed this situation to escalate into a public safety crisis,” does not bind the government to hold an inquiry.

Preliminary results of a survey conducted by Norfolk County's tourism and economic development office estimate more than $823,000 in losses and damage to Norfolk businesses during the power outage caused by the damage to a hydro transformer tower in Caledonia. Diana Jardine, director of municipal programs and education branch with the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, says the ministry wanted to know the cost incurred by Norfolk businesses because of the blackout but there are no immediate plans to offer financial assistance to affected businesses.

In response to Brant MP Lloyd St. Armand's call for the Canadian government to "listen to Justice Marshall, to the citizens of Caledonia and to aboriginals and take not simply a spectator role but a leadership role in solving the dispute", federal Minister of Indian Affairs Jim Prentice states, "The constitutional reality in our country is that the federal Crown is not responsible for policing issues nor for issues relating to provincial Crown land....We are doing everything we can and we continue to make progress."

Sunday, June 4, 2006: OPP provoke another skirmish; Ontario Tories push to criminalize future indigenous land reclamation

At 8 PM, an OPP cruiser is spotted on 6th Line near Cayuga Road, in breach of a mutual aid agreement between OPP and Six Nations Police that requires the OPP to seek permission before entering Six Nations territory. Six Nations people surround the car to stop it from further encroaching on Six Nations land, and Six Nations police are called to the scene. In response to rumours that a barricade has gone up again, non-indigenous people from Caledonia swarm towards the site, carrying placards reading "Bring in the Army". Six Nations people move back onto the reclamation site at 11PM. By 1 AM Monday morning press report that most people have dispersed, but also misreport that there is another blockade. Camp spokesperson Hazel Hill states, "There were concerns that a barricade may go back up, but we want to make it clear, that the incident involving the OPP officer had nothing to do with the reclamation site". OPP Const. Paula Wright says authorities are investigating a car fire and two assaults stemming from the incident.

Press report that on Monday the Ontario legislature will debate an Opposition motion calling for an inquiry into the Liberal government's response to the Six Nations land reclamation. Opposition Leader John Tory's states to press: "When you have a situation where you have land occupied, roads blocked for weeks on end, there's a need for a commission to take a look at better ways to do things, and ways we can make sure the rule of law is upheld".

Saturday, June 3, 2006: Police investigation may result in multiple charges

The OPP states to press that numerous criminal investigations relating to the land reclamation are underway, and that "a variety of criminal charges could result," including kidnapping; assault with a weapon; break, enter and theft; arson; and mischief endangering human life, and trespassing. OPP spokesperson Constable Paula Wright would not say if suspects are indigenous or not, but the incidents mentioned (placement of unity flags on hydro towers, the creation of self-defense barricades by Six Nations people and supporters) suggest the OPP is targeting Six Nations people in its investigation. As camp spokesperson Janie Jamieson points out, "This is our territory. We do have the right to occupy our territory."

Friday, June 2, 2006

Ontario Minister for Aboriginal Affairs David Ramsay states to press that the province "has done all it can to solve the problem in Caledonia" and that the federal government must get involved. While the Ontario government's initial position was that the blockades and land issues were separate, Ramsay says they "now realize the two are connected" and that the issue of stolen lands "involves more than Douglas Creek".

Henco Industries demands that the Ontario government sign an agreement to purchase Douglas Creek Estates at "fair market value" -- which Henco's lawyer estimates is $45 million. Henco states that if the government signs an agreement to purchase the property quickly, the company will drop a court injunction ordering Six Nations people and supporters to leave the site.

Two solidarity events are held.

Thursday, June 1, 2006: Court to order Canadian government to negotiate with Six Nations?

At the hearing called by Ontario Superior Court Justice David Marshall to discuss why his orders that the OPP remove Six Nations people from the reclamation site are not being enforced, the OPP and Ontario government call for negotiations rather than police force. OPP lawyer Denise Dwyer criticizes the Haldimand Law Association for comparing negotiations with Six Nations to appeasement of Hitler (!), stating another injunction would "threaten public and officer safety", and, "the protest is a symptom of the underlying problem" of Canadian governments' failure to deal with land issues. Owen Young, representing the Ontario government, tells the court that "given the history of aboriginal relations in Canada, we should not be surprised by upheaval," and that negotiations are "an expression of the maintenance of the rule of law." Judge Marshall states he will contact the minister of Indian Affairs and the attorney general of Canada to "bring the federal government on board" with negotiations, and orders all parties to reappear on June 16 to discuss progress. Marshall warns that if Henco or Railink were to seek a ruling that the OPP enforce his earlier orders, "the court will do that if necessary." Michael Bruder, lawyer for Henco, says that if the Ontario government does not buy out Henco in the next two weeks, the company "will have to consider applying to Judge Marshall for an order that the injunction be enforced".

Wednesday, May 31, 2006: Information picket at Brantford Casino; "state of emergency" status to remain in place for another week; Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs pass resolution to block rails for 24 hours

Land talks restart, with meetings between Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) and Canada and Ontario government representatives. To highlight the extent of theft of Six Nations land and support Haudenoniso delegates involved in negotiations, more than two dozen Six Nations people hold an information picket outside the Brantford Charity Casino, waving flags and handing out leaflets about the history of land theft -- including the site the casino is built on. Information sheets state: "the time has come to respectfully, honestly and faithfully deal with the centuries old theft of our land.”

Haldimand County confirms that the state of emergency will remain "for monitoring purposes" until Hydro One crews have completed repairs on the backup transformer -- likely June 5 or 6.

Delegates at an Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs conference pass a resolution to stop rail traffic for 24 hours to show solidarity with Six Nations, to protest the colonial government's inaction in addressing land issues, and to serve as a warning that Canada's economy will be negatively impacted if the colonial government continues to steal land and dishonour treaties.

Tuesday, May 30, 2006: Business grant applications begin; Haudenoniso speaks at Brant County planning meeting

$500,000 from the Ontario government disbursements start to business owners who file applications for emergency assistance at the Haldimand Caledonia Community Centre. Independently-owned businesses in the Caledonia to Hagersville Highway 6 corridor are eligible for help with overhead expenses if they can show they are so negatively affected by the barricades that they are at risk of closure. According to Brant MPP Dave Levac, this is a first step and Caledonia business owners can expect further assistance above and beyond the $500,000 already pledged by the provincial government. Haldimand County is requesting another $160,000 from the province for a business recovery plan. Camp spokesperson Janie Jamieson states to press that the colonial government should provide compensation because "it is their fault this has happened and they should be accountable," and points out that businesses on the Six Nations reserve have also been financially struggling since the reclamation began but are not being compensated.

The Brantford Expositor reports that Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) representatives attended a Brant County planning meeting last week, stating that as the area is part of the Haldimand Tract it is Six Nations land and requesting that four planning matters be delayed to June 3, to give time for Six Nations people to consider the proposals. The planning committee agreed to the request. The proposals involve creating estate lots on land that is currently zoned for agricultural purposes.

Monday, May 29, 2006: Judge sets court date to determine why his injunctions aren't being enforced; the cost of colonialism

Ontario Superior Court Justice David Marshall issues summons ordering the OPP, the attorney general of Ontario, the Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs), the Six Nations band council, the County of Haldimand, the Haldimand Law Society, Henco Industries, and Railink to a special court session Thursday to explain why his injunctions (ordering Six Nations people to be removed from the reclamation site, and a separate injunction obtained by Railink on May 4) are not being acted upon. Marshall states to press, "The Superior Court of Justice has the ultimate responsibility to ensure that peace in the community is maintained under the rule of law -- hence this court calls the parties in order to further resolution of these matters."

The expenses of policing, damage, and other costs relating to the repression of the land reclamation are now estimated at $12 million ($10 million alone for policing).

Mainstream press continue to express "surprise" at the open displays of racism and hatred witnessed since the land reclamation started. (To indigenous people, this is hardly news; see Friday's interview with Taiaiake Alfred).

Sunday, May 28, 2006

Saturday, May 27, 2006

Friday, May 26, 2006: Electricity fully restored - state of emergency to remain until backup transformer repaired; Haldimand mayor continues pattern of racist comments

Electricity has been restored to all homes and businesses, but repairs continue over the weekend on a backup transformer. According to Haldimand County Mayor Marie Trainer, the state of emergency will remain until repairs are complete, but could be lifted Monday during a special council meeting if the second transformer has been fixed. Trainer demonstrates again why she was removed as council spokesperson, stating to press that “it was definitely natives” who caused the damage to the power station despite statements by Norfolk Power that there is no evidence yet of who damaged the transformer.

In an interview with CBC, Taiaiake Alfred discusses racist attitudes expressed by non-indigenous residents of Caledonia during the conflict over the Six Nations' land reclamation, and general racist and colonial attitudes among white people in Canada.

Thursday, May 25, 2006: Developers "forging ahead with plans for new settlements"; Ontario announces $500,000 aid for businesses; state of emergency still in effect

Local companies who are investors in Henco's planned Douglas Creek Estates say the Six Nations land reclamation is causing them financial harm, demand compensation by the Ontario government, and warn that future development in the Haldimand Tract is in question. Larger development companies, apparently unconcerned about building on stolen land, say they are "forging ahead with plans for new settlements".

After a meeting with the "community liaison group" (Haldimand County officials, the OPP, non-indigenous residents of Caledonia, and representatives of various Ontario ministries), Ontario Economic Development Minister Joe Cordiano the province will give $500,000 to Haldimand County to distribute to Caledonia businesses that have been so financially affected by the barricades (but not by the recent power outage) that they are at risk of closure. According to Cordiano, "We're looking at longer term funding for other types of relief and assistance".

Haldimand County confirms that the state of emergency will remain "for monitoring purposes" until Hydro One crews have fully stabilized the power supply.

Wednesday, May 24, 2006: Harper dismisses call for federal involvement; Haldimand councillor calls for funding to be cut to band council; electricity restored in Caledonia; Henco threatens legal action

Grassroots groups organize a “People’s Alternative Lunch” at a London Chamber of Commerce event with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper as a guest speaker. Dan Hilton, of London Solidary for Six Nations, says, "The Harper government is invisible on this issue, but (aboriginal affairs) is a federal jurisdiction. He has to show some leadership.” Harper later states to press that the situation is a "provincial land use matter and a provincial law enforcement issue".

A closed-door meeting is held between Haldimand County Mayor Marie Trainer and two county councillors, members of the OPP, Ontario land negotiator Jane Stewart, and local residents. According to Stewart, the purpose is to provide government information to the community and to hear concerns from them. Speaking loudly enough to be heard by press outside the door, Caledonia councillor Craig Ashbaugh suggests the Canadian government cut off funding for the Six Nations band council until Six Nations people leave the land reclamation site. After the meeting Trainer says she "couldn't say" if this would further inflame the situation; "that is something the federal government would have to look into, the repercussions". Local businesses are told to compile a case proving that they suffered "as a result of the blockade" and to show their need for financial aid to stay in business for the next three months.

Hydro crews work through the night and by morning less than 200 homes and businesses are without power. According to Hydro One, full repairs to the damaged station will take a few days to complete. Haldimand County announces that the state of emergency will remain in place until the power supply is stable, and that the emergency shelter is closed (although the emergency phone line will remain).

Michael Bruder, lawyer for Henco Industries, says to press, "If we're not satisfied with the process and the progress in our discussions with the government then ultimately our recourse is to take legal action".

Tuesday, May 23, 2006: Six Nations people move the barricade to open Argyle road; Caledonia residents speak out against Monday's mob violence

Morning is tense as Caledonia residents who took part in yesterday's mob attack, the Caledonia Citizens Alliance, and members of Haldimand County council call for military intervention. The Ontario Provincial Police says, "we're prepared...We've got lots of bodies here." Schools are closed in Caledonia, Waterford and Simcoe. David Peterson, the former premier of Ontario who was brought in by the current government to work on "short term" issues, says to press that Monday's events have "complicated the situation by a large measure" and that it is uncertain when land talks can resume.

Many of the media reports focus on racist, inflammatory statements by Caledonia politicians and residents, whipping up fear and portraying a military "solution" as the only option. However, there are dissenting voices within Caledonia.

Six Nations people meet in the morning and decide to once again extend an offer to remove the blockade. After extended phone meetings between Six Nations people and the Caledonia Citizens' Alliance to discuss safety, in the early afternoon a Six Nations man and a non-indigenous Caledonia resident shake hands and walk together down Argyle Road extending a lilac branch. "We've held out an olive branch," says Tekarihoken (Kanyen'kehaka Royaner Allan McNaughton). "It's a good beginning." A spokesperson for the Caledonia Citizens' Alliance picks up the branch and the 300 non-indigenous residents and media move off the roadway. Shortly afterward the hydro tower lying across the road is moved by Six Nations people off the roadway and across the entrance to the land reclamation site, as protection for the camp. By 3:30 PM traffic is moving along the road. Camp spokesperson Hazel Hill confirms that Six Nations people and supporters will maintain a presence until resolution is reached in land negotiations.

After the road is re-opened, Ontario representative David Peterson says talks between Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) and the Ontario and Canadian governments can progress. Tekarihoken states to press, "We remain committed to securing our land rights and restoring our tradition of respect, trust and friendship with our neighbours". Commenting to press on the removal of the barricade, camp spokesperson Janie Jamieson says, "We are doing it in good faith that negotiations will move forward. The ball is now in the government's court."

As a result of overnight work by crews of Hydro One and Haldimand Hydro, power is restored to parts of Caledonia, with Hagersville and Cayuga having low voltage. Residents with power are asked to conserve electricity to prevent overloading the system. An estimated 2,000 homes and business are still without power.

Monday, May 22, 2006: Barricade removed, then put back up after mob attacks Six Nations people; Haldimand County declares "state of emergency"; solidarity actions begin

Six Nations people and supporters remove the blockade on Argyle Street (the main road through Caledonia) at 6 AM. Tekarihoken (Kanyen'kehaka Royaner Allan McNaughton) issues a statement to the press that the barricades have come down as a goodwill gesture now that progress is being made in negotiations, and that "As the world has seen, our protest has been firm but peaceful. Our people are responding without weapons, using only their bodies to assert that we are a sovereign people with a long history and that we cannot be intimidated." The non-indigenous Caledonia residents who set up a counter-blockade on Friday continue blocking the road, not letting Six Nations people through. "What they don't realize is if they continuously threaten our safety, that barricade can go right back up again, so it's entirely their decision," says Janie Jamieson.

Non-indigenous blockaders surround a car with a reporter and Six Nations women and then attack Six Nations people coming to the aid of those in the car. Chiefs bring a cedar branch to the front of the line and tell the mob it is their choice, saying Six Nations people and supporters will leave the road if the mob disperses. When the mob does not back down Haldimand councillor Lorne Boyko begs the mob to accept the offer of peace, saying, "It's in your hands. Not only are your children watching here in Caledonia but all of Canada is watching. For the future of the community we have to move back. This has to end." As the mob presses forward people at the reclamation site dig up the road pavement, creating a trench across Argyle Road to stop the mob from swarming the camp. By mid-afternoon press report that Ontario Provincial Police officers have established two lines between the mob and Six Nations people on Highway 6. Mohawk Nation News reports that the OPP is pepper-spraying Six Nations people. Ontario negotiator David Peterson is taunted, pushed, and shoved by non-indigenous Caledonia residents when he tries to walk through the mob after meeting with people in the camp shortly after 6 PM EST. Shortly before 8 PM, two non-indigenous Caledonia residents who walk to the barricade carrying a lilac branch as a gesture of peace are jeered and condemned as traitors by other residents in the mob. By late evening, municipal officials in Haldimand County declare an official state of emergency and police wearing riot gear gather around the site.

The Caledonia transformer station (the main source of power for the surrounding Norfolk and Haldimand counties) is damaged, leaving thousands of area residents without electricity. According to Hydro One, it will likely be three days before service is fully restored.

Indigenous people near North Battleford block the Yellowhead Highway for two hours in an emergency gesture of solidarity, backing up traffic for three kilometres. The Seaway International Bridge (linking Cornwall/Akwesasne and Massena, New York) is closed for several hours after two vehicles are lit on fire. In Vancouver the Six Nations Solidarity Network meets to discuss emergency actions.

Sunday, May 21, 2006: Blockade removal may be postponed due to counter-blockade; several hundred supporters come to camp to stand in solidarity with Six Nations

Camp spokesperson Janie Jamieson states to press the barricade across Argyle Road may not be removed as announced earlier, due to the counter-blockade set up by non-indigenous Caledonia residents on Friday. According to Jamieson, police are allowing the counter-blockaders to selectively bar indigenous people from crossing their line. Six Nations people and supporters are building another road to the land reclamation site, to go around the counter-blockade.

Six school buses carrying several hundred people from Toronto come to the camp to celebrate the reclamation, stand in solidarity with Six Nations people, and bring supplies to the site.

Saturday, May 20, 2006: Meetings continue; media reports blockade to come down Monday

Six Nations people continue to meet to discuss whether to remove the Argyle Street South checkpoint and barricade. Linda Powless, a reporter with Turtle Island News, tells CBC Newsworld that a decision is reached to remove road barricades on Monday as significant progress has been made in ensuring safety of Six Nations people on the site, stopping construction, conducting an archeological survey, and addressing the longstanding land theft.

Friday, May 19, 2006: Statement by Tekarihoken (Kanyen'kehaka Royaner Allan McNaughton); Caledonia residents continue to antagonize Six Nations and supporters; Henco demands buyout

Tekarihoken (Kanyen'kehaka Royaner Allan McNaughton) issues a statement to the press praising the people at the reclamation site, saying, "the protesters have taken the high road in showing that public safety is paramount, but they haven't backed off their position at all. Their actions reflect what was discussed at the bargaining table and bodes well for the future".

Non-indigenous Caledonia residents set up a counter-blockade Friday near the Argyle Street barricade, preventing Six Nations people and supporters' vehicles from coming and going to the site. Eight Caledonia residents claim they were attacked by people from the camp; OPP state they are investigating the allegations.

The owners of Henco Industries state that with the Ontario government imposing an indefinite moratorium on construction they can no longer wait for resolution, and send a letter to the Ontario government demanding compensation for "the value of the land itself plus the revenues we would have received had our development proceeded as planned." David Ramsay, Ontario Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, responds that a buyout of Henco will not be discussed until the "short-term issues" being addressed in talks between Ontario crisis negotiator David Peterson and Tekarihoken (Kanyen'kehaka Royaner Allan McNaughton) are resolved.

Thursday, May 18, 2006: Henco protests development moratorium; military reservist arrested after speeding through barricade

Don and John Henning, the owners of Henco Industries, file a protest with the Ontario government over the government's assurance to the Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) of an immediate moratorium on development of the Douglas Creek Estates. Henco lawyer Michael Bruder says the brothers have "a strategy" about what to do if the government does not respond to their concerns about the freeze.

Ron Desroches, an 18-year-old military reservist, speeds and swerves through the reclamation site, narrowly missing hitting Six Nations people and supporters. Six Nations security personnel stop him and find an unloaded pellet gun and camouflage gear in the car. OPP detain him but release him without charges. Desroches states to press, "I'm somebody who's more than willing to go and defend the rights of this country and mine were just violated".

Wednesday, May 17, 2006: Warrants issued to enforce colonial jurisdiction; meeting held to update on negotiations

Four of the people arrested in the police invasion on April 20 refuse to respond to summons to come before a colonial court judge, stating that the colonial court has no jurisdiction over them. An additional charge of "failing to appear" is laid and arrest warrants issued.

Ontario crisis negotiator David Peterson attends a meeting to give Six Nations an update on negotiations. The Ontario government tables two documents, one promising an immediate moratorium on construction and one promising a return of the Burtch lands. David Ramsay, Ontario Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, states "In order for talks on Douglas Creek Estates and the long-term land grievance to proceed, we must see continued progress on removal of the barricades on the transportation corridors."

Haldimand County council releases a detailed list of actions taken by council since March 4, to counter criticism by some non-indigenous residents that the council has not been doing enough to respond to the land reclamation.

The Caledonia Citizens' Alliance issues a news release blaming Six Nations people and supporters for two car accidents that occurred on roads being used by people to detour around the barricades.

Tuesday, May 16, 2006: Blockades partially lifted; Caledonia Citizen's Alliance to join talks?

Barricades have been moved to open up one lane of Argyle Street for free travel by local traffic. The previous stop and check of emergency vehicles (other than OPP) has also been lifted to allow quicker passage along the road. According to camp spokesperson Janie Jamieson, the road was partially opened to "help keep things moving along. We didn't want things to sit at a stalemate and repeat the history of Ipperwash and Oka." Six Nations people and supporters say they will be remaining at the site, and that the road will be closed again if there are threats or violence. If the Canadian and Ontario governments address four key demands (moratorium on development, drop charges against people involved in reclamation, assure safety of Six Nations people, educate non-indigenous people in Caledonia and Ontario about First Nations) consideration will be given to opening Argyle Street South to all traffic. OPP tells the press they will remain at the site.

There are conflicting reports about possible participation of the Caledonia Citizen's Alliance in negotiations. Canadian Press reports the Alliance as saying they will soon be joining talks between Ontario crisis negotiator David Peterson and Tekarihoken (Kanyen'kehaka Royaner Allan McNaughton); an Alliance press statement refers to getting a seat at land issue negotiations involving Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) and Canadian and Ontario governments.

Monday, May 15, 2006: Poll shows support for Six Nations' land reclamation; OPP seize videotape from CHTV

A poll of 295 First Nations, Métis and Inuit individuals conducted for the National Post reports that 62% of respondents believe Six Nations people were "right to demonstrate", with12% not supporting the actions taken. Conrad Winn, president of polling form Compas Inc. which conducted the survey, states, "A 5-1 ratio of support tells us there is a real strong sense of land grievance that continues among Aboriginal communities that won't go away that readily."

OPP arrive at the Hamilton office of CH Television with a search warrant for a homemade tape, filmed by a Caledonia resident and aired by CH on May 10, showing Caledonia residents trying to dismantle the barricade at the Highway 6 bypass. The tape was given to CH by a source on condition of confidentiality and that the faces of those who tried to take apart the barricade be obscured. CH contests the seizure of the tape, stating that revelation of the identity of the source "violates Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedoms". No date has been set for a court hearing to address CH's complaint.

Sunday, May 14, 2006: Meetings to discuss barricade; Mother's Day rally and ride

Six Nations people meet over the weekend to discuss whether to remove the Argyle Street South checkpoint and barricade (see Hazel's Saturday night report). As of late Sunday night no decision is reached. According to camp spokesperson Janie Jamieson, removal of the barricade blocking the Highway 6 bypass is not up for discussion at this time. Clyde Powless warns that removal of the blockade relies on confidence that police and townspeople will act responsibly and not threaten the safety of Six Nations people and supporters: "One irresponsible person could jeopardize the barricades staying down."

Thirty people take part in a rally and bus trip from Kitchener to the camp to celebrate Mother's Day and learn more about the history behind the Six Nations land reclamation. Jacqueline House, a camp spokesperson and mother of four, tells the group, "They're hoping and waiting for us to break that treaty of peace and we refuse to. We're peaceful, we're united and we're unarmed."

Saturday, May 13, 2006: "We are still here, and are not going anywhere"

In response to mainstream media reports that "the standoff will be over soon", camp spokesperson Hazel Hill reports that whatever decisions are made about the barricades, Six Nations are not leaving their lands. Further, "if Canada chooses to use war like measures to continually get what they want, than we as Onkwehonweh People, have no alternative but to meet them with that same mentality...if we choose to open a road or partially open a road, should anyone; police, army, citizens or anything interefere with the Peace we are trying to maintain, those roads would be immediately closed again, as would other territories and nations across the world do so in our support...it is no longer acceptable that they enter into agreements and treaties as their ancestors did all the while planning how to get out of them and how to avoid being honest and forthright in their dealings".

In solidarity with the people of Six Nations and all First Nations across Turtle Island, Ottawa organizers call for a march to the Queen’s representative to demand an immediate solution to land rights disputes.

Friday, May 12, 2006: Media reports barricade will come down next week; formation of "Caledonia Citizens Alliance"; economic fallout from standoff continues

After a meeting with Ontario crisis negotiator David Peterson, Tekarihoken (Kanyen'kehaka Royaner Allan McNaughton) states to press that he is "very happy with the way things are going" and suggests that the blockade of the Highway 6 overpass may be removed next week if talks continue to go well. The mainstream media report "the standoff will be over soon", but there have been no statements by camp spokespeople to confirm the conditions needed for the barricades to come down. Mohawk Nation News commentator Kahentinehta Horn warns, "All we can do at this time is stay alert for our safety. Our supporters must remain vigilant that Canada behave decently and respect its laws." Talks between colonial government representatives and Six Nations representatives to address long-term land issues will begin on Tuesday.

A new group calling itself the Caledonia Citizens' Alliance announces its formation and demands to be included in negotiations. The Alliance, made up of the Caledonia Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Caledonia BIA, Real Estate representatives, local businesses, and "a variety of community citizens groups", states that its purpose is " to ensure a strong citizens voice expressing concerns for residents of Caledonia".

Economic stresses continue for Six Nations people behind the barricades; most mainstream media continue to focus on economic fallout for non-indigenous people in nearby communities.

Wednesday, May 10, 2006: Negotiations continue; provincial crisis negotiator suggests archeological study, buyout of Henco, and community centre

Talks continue at the Best Western Inn in Brantford, with colonial government representatives meeting Six Nations representatives for the first time.

David Peterson, appointed by Ontario to address short-term "crisis" issues, suggests an independent archeological survey to check for burial sites, a buyout of Henco, and having Haldimand County and Six Nations develop a joint community centre to "bring the whole community back together."

Tuesday, May 9, 2006: OPP numbers (and costs) increase; Henco given "refund"; UN human rights watchdog criticizes Canada

The OPP increases its presence at the north end of the Highway 6 bypass bridge. Press report six uniformed offices and four cruisers parked at the bridge, with another officer at the base of the bridge off Highway 54. A police spokesperson says the buildup is necessary to keep a "mutual boundary of respect" between non-indigenous people in Caledonia and Six Nations. In the Ontario legislature, Tory justice critic Tory Dunlop estimates the cost of the extra OPP presence in Caledonia is $8 million thus far.

Henco is given a $256,687 refund by Haldimand County for installing oversized water, sewer and storm systems in the planned "Douglas Creek Estates". These types of installations are normally the municipality’s responsibility, but the company opted to pay the costs "to get the project underway as soon as possible".

Ontario premier Dalton McGuinty makes a statement to press asking Caledonia residents for "more time" for negotiations.

The UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights criticizes Canada "for its failure to live up to its commitments under an international treaty that protects people's economic, social and cultural rights". Members of the committee specifically mentioned Canada's expropriation of Six Nations and Lubicon land, the disproportionately high rates of sexual assault and murder of Aboriginal women, and discrimination against women under the Indian Act. The delegation of Canadian government representatives countered the criticisms by saying Canada "recognized and affirmed land and treaty rights" and "the inherent right of Aboriginals to self-government."

Monday, May 8, 2006

Hazel Hill reports on yesterday's gathering and explains Friday's reinforcement of the barricade on the north side of the Highway 6 Bypass bridge.

Sunday, May 7, 2006: Six Nations people gather in unity

Six Nations people gather to promote unity. According to camp spokesperson Hazel Hill, "the idea is to come as people only, remove titles and any other labels at the gate, and come together as a people".

Saturday, May 6, 2006: Six Nations people gather to discuss negotiations; confrontation at barricade; successful solidarity action in Courtenay; camp needs supplies

Grand council is held to discuss Six Nations positions in negotiations with the Canadian government. In a report on the status of the negotiations, Tekarihoken (Kanyen'kehaka Royaner Allan McNaughton) says the province and the Haudenosaunee reached a four-point agreement (but didn't sign) on how the negotiations should take place, and that the first thing to be discussed on May 9 is determining the exact negotiating mandate of each of the government representatives.

Non-indigenous Caledonia residents continue to provoke Six Nations people and supporters. In footage aired by Hamilton CH news on May 12, the residents say "about 14 of them went to the roadblock to clear the blockade". Media present the story as "violent natives".

In Courtenay, 35 people responded to a call for solidarity with Six Nations and after a brief gathering walked through the streets of downtown. The walk was followed by group discussion of the realities of local indigenous people and the strength of solidarity in resistance.

With 50-300 people consistently at the camp, there is a need for medical supplies, personal hygiene products, food and a variety of other products. Individual who can't bring supplies to the camp can help by sending money for local people to purchase supplies.

Friday, May 5, 2006: Six Nations representatives announced; Six Nations land reclamation stalls planned construction in other areas within Haldimand Tract; Caledonia resident rally draws smaller crowds; Canada to be questioned at UN; Henco alleges theft

The federal and provincial governments are notified that the "Principal Representative" for the Haudenosaunee in the negotiations over the Douglas Creek lands will be Tekarihoken (Kanyen'kehaka Royaner Allan McNaughton).

It is announced that regional and provincial government plans to build new bridges over the Grand River near Kitchener-Waterloo have been delayed until the dispute over lands in the Haldimand Tract is resolved. Ken Seiling, chair of Waterloo Region, states that Six Nations must make way for increased settler presence. "This is the growth area of Canada...This needs to be resolved so we can plan accordingly."

Flyers signed "Caledonia Resistance" circulate throughout the town urging residents to gather tonight to "stand up and be noticed", but the crowd is noticeably smaller than previous similar rallies. Supporters from many nations continue to come to the camp to show solidarity with Six Nations and to help protect people inside the camp.

Canadian officials will be questioned at the United Nations today and Monday about Canada's human rights record. The General Assembly of the UN is to vote on May 9 on which states will sit on the new 47-member UN Human Rights Council. Representatives of Six Nations and the Lubicon Nation have lobbied in Geneva throughout the week to send the message that Canada should be held to account for its genocidal practices and ongoing colonialism.

In a further attempt to criminalize the land reclamation, Henco alleges that Six Nations people involved in the reclamation stole property during the police raid on April 20 and are demanding payment for return of the goods. According to Henco's lawyer, files, computers, furniture and construction equipment worth an estimated $200,000 were looted from an office and model home on the site, and that someone acting "on behalf of the protesters" called demanding $20,000 for their return. In a press release, the owners of Henco say they are "extremely angry and frustrated that the protesters are holding our possessions for ransom and in effect holding the town of Caledonia hostage." Camp spokesperson Janie Jamieson says Henco's press release is the first news she has heard of this, and OPP Sergeant Dave Rektor says he is also not aware of any extortion attempt.

For additional security, a new barrier is put up on the north side of the Highway 6 Bypass bridge over the Grand River. This does not affect people driving to the camp or people in Caledonia, as the bridge has been blocked on the south side since the police invasion on April 20.

Thursday, May 4, 2006: Hennings brothers allege damage to construction site; Hate Crime unit to investigate KKK flyer

Henco Industries issues a press release alleging that Six Nations people and supporters are building onto houses at the construction site, but produces no evidence to substantiate their allegation. When asked by press to comment, camp spokesperson Janie Jamieson points out that give the constant flight of police planes over the site, if there really is damage to the construction on the site it shouldn't be hard to provide photo evidence.

The OPP Hate Crime Unit is investigating a KKK flyer handed out at the April 28 rally of non-indigenous Caledonia residents. OPP Constable Dave Meyer states to press that the poster is likely a hoax, and that "there is no evidence" that a KKK meeting took place or was planned in Caledonia.

Wednesday, May 3, 2006: UN lobby continues; colonial governments appoint representatives for talks; Ontario representative to ask provincial government to drop charges and halt development

Doreen Silversmith, from Six Nations, continues lobbying members of the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights to assist by sending an impartial international mediator to oversee negotiations between Six Nations and the Canadian government.

Federal and provincial colonial governments announce their representatives for "main table" talks scheduled to begin May 5. In a statement to press, Ontario's Aboriginal Affairs Minister David Ramsay makes the provincial government's position clear: "This is more of an accounting of the land...Were they properly credited for the land as it was disposed of?" David Peterson, appointed by the Ontario government to address "immediate issues" in the Six Nations land reclamation and resulting siege, leaves Caledonia promising to request that the province drop charges against Six Nations people who were arrested during the April 20 police invasion, halt all development on the property, and assure Six Nations people that there will be no action from the Canadian Armed Forces.

Tuesday, May 2, 2006: Federal government breaks another agreement

In today's budget announcement, the Canadian Tory government announces that it will not keep the agreement made in the Kelowna Accord, reducing the promised $5.1-billion to $450 million to "improve education programs, provide clean water, and repair crumbling housing stocks" in Aboriginal communities. Although the Kelowna Accord did not address land or sovereignty issues so is not directly relevant to the Six Nations land reclamation, the federal government's breach of the agreement underscores the need for impartial, international monitoring of negotiations and agreements between Canada and Six Nations, as requested by the Clan Mothers from the UN.

The reporting of the Tory, Liberal, and NDP positions on the Kelowna Accord also illustrates the way that the colonial government and the media distort colonialism as being a problem of "economic inequity" -- suggesting the poverty in Aboriginal communities is a lack of (colonially-structured) social programs, rather than a result of the ongoing theft of indigenous lands and resources, the attempted destruction of indigenous cultures, and repression of indigenous people who resist colonial government interests. One Liberal MP even went so far as to say "Kasechewan and water, Caledonia and land claims, Garden Hill and health care, all of these incidents of aboriginals being worse off than their fellow Canadians will be alleviated if the Kelowna accord is implemented in full". The issues behind the Six Nations land reclamation cannot be solved by putting money into social programs, no matter what the dollar amount is.

Note: the following links are to government statements and news articles that link the Kelowna Accord to the Six Nations land reclamation. Other discussion of the Kelowna Accord in the news and government is not included on this site as it's not directly relevant to the land reclamation.

Meanwhile, Ontario politicians bicker about road signage in Caledonia.

Monday, May 1, 2006: Clan Mothers' statement delivered to UN; Provincial negotiator no replacement for nation-to-nation negotiations; province sends money to Caledonia and Henco

Doreen Silversmith, a Six Nations woman, delivers a statement from the Clan Mothers to the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous People.

People in the camp express skepticism about provincial representative David Peterson's role in resolving the standoff, pointing out that the issue of land theft is a federal matter, not a provincial one. After a visit to Caledonia, Peterson, appointed several two days ago by the Ontario government to address "immediate issues" in the Six Nations land reclamation and resulting siege, states to the press that he "can't guarantee timelines, can't guarantee success, and can't guarantee what the resolution will be". In a rather remarkable analogy given the internationally recognized brutality of the Israeli occupation of Palestine, Peterson likens the standoff to "the Israeli issue".

Apr 30, 2006: Ontario appointee heads to Caledonia

David Peterson, appointed by the Ontario government to address "immediate issues" in the Six Nations land reclamation and resulting siege, meets with provincial officials and then heads to Caledonia in the hopes of meeting Six Nations representatives at the camp, as well as non-indigenous Caledonia residents.

Apr 29, 2006: Ontario appoints former premier to work on "immediate issues"

The Ontario government announces that former Liberal premier David Peterson has been appointed to work with Six Nations, Henco Industries, and municipality and business leaders to address immediate concerns. Peterson is not addressing long-term concerns: the province will appoint a representative to address the long-term issues (i.e., land theft) within one week, as per the agreement signed on April 21. Peterson will be reporting directly to Ontario's Aboriginal Affairs Minister David Ramsay. The provincial government also announces provision of an undisclosed amount of bridge financing for Henco Industries to prevent their bankruptcy.

Apr 28, 2006: Henco compensation under discussion; another rally in Caledonia; solidarity actions continue

Talks between the Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) and the federal and Ontario governments continue today and are expected to extend over the weekend. Negotiators have broken off into working groups to deal with specific issues and will continue meeting on Saturday; "main table" talks will restart on May 5. The Ontario government confirms that an offer for interim financial assistance has been made to Henco Industries. A new government toll-free information line has been set up to "keep the public informed about the province's efforts to resolve the Caledonia situation".

Five hundred non-indigenous people gather in response to an anonymously produced leaflet urging Caledonia residents to come to an evening rally near the blockade. Although news reports depict the rally as "peaceful", racist harassment and calls for violence against people in the camp continue, including KKK flyers. The article by Mohawk Nation News below is strongly recommended as it provides insightful analysis of the exploitation of community tensions by media and the state to increase fear, hatred, and justification for an ongoing police presence.

Solidarity actions continue in many regions. Federal Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice, scheduled to speak on "aboriginal self-government" in Toronto, cancels after a call to protest is announced. In Ottawa and Winnipeg, an estimated 50 people gather to show solidarity with Six Nations. The Winnipeg information picket partially blocks the Midtown bridge before being removed by police.

Apr 27, 2006: Talks continue; Clan Mothers preparing statement for UN

Talks between the Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) and the federal and Ontario governments continue today. Six Nations Clan Mothers are drafting a statement about the land reclamation for the United Nations, to be delivered to the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights in Geneva next week.

Apr 26, 2006: Haudenoniso spokesperson reports progress at talks; racist mob dwindles

Talks between the Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) and the federal and Ontario governments restart. Chief Allen McNaughton tells press that the negotiators “are making progress", and that, “the parties are moving toward achieving disengagement”.

People at the camp continue a security check on vehicles approaching the safety barricade established after last week's OPP invasion. Another rally of non-indigenous residents is organized to demand that the road be opened, but the numbers drop -- only 100 gather.

Apr 25, 2006: Government talks to restart tomorrow; Haldimand council removes mayor as spokesperson after racist comments; provincial Tories threaten Six Nations tobacco traders; solidarity actions continue

Ontario premier Dalton McGuinty says talks will restart on April 26. At a press conference in Hamilton, the owners of Henco Industries express frustration with the provincial and federal goverments' inaction, and state that they want a peaceful solution and are willing to "consider all options".

After making comments to CBC that people in the camp are all on welfare, Haldimand County Mayor Marie Trainer is confronted at the camp by Six Nations, censured by her own council, and replaced by deputy mayor Tom Patterson as the council's spokesperson.

In the Ontario government's discussion of the Budget Measures Act, Tory head of the Opposition Toby Barrett (MP for Haldimand-Norfolk-Brant) calls for action to stop indigenous people from trading tobacco, saying "That kind of tobacco money helps finance the lawlessness we're seeing at the occupation site at Six Nations in Caledonia. That kind of money also helps finance the blocking of railroads that was mentioned earlier this evening." Barrett also states there is "obviously" a link between Six Nations people and organized crime.

Solidarity actions continue. In Vancouver, 300-400 people gather at 12:30 at a rally organized by local indigenous communities. After rallying at the Vancouver Art Gallery, people blockaded the Lion's Gate Bridge for one hour. According to organizer Annita McPhee from the Tahltan Nation, "We want to send a clear message to the federal and provincial governments that they must stop criminalizing our people who are standing up for our land and against injustices that been brought upon by the colonizers."

In other locations: Terrance Nelson, elected chief of Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation, spokesman for Anishinabe Warrior Society and Board of Director for the American Indian Movement, issues a statement of solidarity with the people at the Six Nations reclamation, saying this situation has implications for all First Nations and is "more dangerous than Oka". The Secwepemc Native Youth Movement continues an information picket (set up April 22) on the Trans Canada Highway in solidarity with Six Nations; in addition to a camp, there are billboards, banners, and Warrior flags to get the message out to the 10,000+ travellers per day that drive this highway. Okanagan people set up a Six Nations solidarity information picket at the intersection of Highway 97 and Westside Road, and commited to continued support through direct political action until resolution is reached. Flags and a sign reading "Six Nations you are not alone" stand at Kanehsatà:ke. In Toronto, the Ontario Coalition Against Poverty (OCAP) is organizing a solidarity rally on Friday April 28. Winnipeg organizers are holding a meeting today to organize a public solidarity event. A member of the Squamish Nation is flying a Mohawk flag in solidarity.

Apr 24, 2006: Rally turns into mob attack on camp; Kahehti:io released with no charges

Kahehti:io, a 20-year-old Mohawk from Kahnawake who was arrested during the police invasion on April 20 and held over the weekend for refusing to give a colonial name, is released with no charges.

Two non-indigenous residents of Caledonia organize an evening rally calling on the governments for quick and peaceful resolution. As a crowd of 3,000 people come, arguments between residents break out and 500 participants move toward the camp, shouting insults at the Six Nations people and supporters. Police stop the non-indigenous demonstrators before they could reach the blockade, and arrest one man. The crowd then takes out its anger by attacking a police vehicle. People in the camp continue to maintain their peaceful presence, stating that any violence will not come from inside the camp. By midnight (EDT) the mob disperses.

One week after visiting Six Nations people and supporters at the camp, NDP Aboriginal Affairs critic Jean Crowder (MP for Cowichan-Ladysmith) calls for action by Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development Jim Prentice to deal with outstanding land disputes. "There was no one else in the House asking about it and that was surprising," she said. "Caledonia is only one situation in this country and it's a flashpoint."

Apr 23, 2006: OPP and RCMP still present in mass numbers; are military troops also in the area?

Ontario Provincial Police and RCMP are still in place around the camp, and one media outlet has raised questions about possible federal military forces in Hamilton. People inside the camp affirm that they will remain for at least two weeks while talks take place between the Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) and the Ontario and federal governments.

Apr 22, 2006: Talks continue; Native Youth Movement sets up solidarity highway picket; meeting of indigenous people in Vancouver; prayer ceremonies in Winnipeg

Representatives of the Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) and the federal and Ontario governments sign an agreement to continue talks. A short announcement released this morning states each party will appoint a representative within two weeks who "will develop a detailed work plan and agreement that will provide for the implementation of constructive and effective ways to address and resolve the various outstanding issues." The Haudenoniso has consistently said that the talks are about the underlying issues of sovereignty and land rights, not ending the blockades -- the people at the camp will decide for themselves whether enough progress has been made in stopping the ongoing theft of Six Nations land to end the blockade. Although some media are reporting the talks as though an agreement has already been reached, it is important to be clear that the situation on the ground is unchanged, with the OPP and RCMP still surrounding the camp.

The Secwepemc Native Youth Movement sets up an information picket along the Trans Canada Highway (Hwy #1) at Neskonlith Reserve, 5 KM west of Chase, BC to show solidarity with people at Six Nations. In addition to a camp, there are billboards, banners, and Warrior flags to get the message out to the 10,000+ travellers per day that drive this highway.

Over 100 concerned members of the Vancouver Native community meet at the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre to discuss solidarity with the Six Nations, and decide to hold a peaceful rally on Tuesday April 25. Near Winnipeg, at a sacred spot at the Red River and Assiniboine River fork, people come together to burn tobacco and pray for people at Six Nations.

Apr 21, 2006: Solidarity actions; RCMP join OPP; people arrested resist colonial authority

By morning there are reports of solidarity actions from many communities. Tyendinaga Mohawks block CN rail tracks on their territory, stopping freight and passenger trains for the entire day. Mohawks of Kahnawake seize the Mercier Bridge for a short time and place flags as a show of solidarity. In Montréal the Indigenous Peoples Solidarity Movement (IPSM) holds an emergency demonstration in solidarity with Six Nations people, denouncing OPP violence.

Talks continue, but so does the police build-up. RCMP state to press that they have joined forces with the OPP near Six Nations, saying their presence was requested by the OPP.

After today's bail hearing for people arrested during the police invasion, lawyer Chris Reid states that his six clients are from the sovereign Mohawk nation and take the position that they are not subject to Canadian laws. Kahehti:io, a 20-year-old Mohawk from Kahnawake, refuses to give a colonial name or to be photographed and fingerprinted. Justice of the Peace Paul Welsh orders Kahehti:io held until a bail hearing Monday and authorizes police to use "as much force as necessary" to obtain his fingerprints and photo.

Apr 20, 2006: Police invasion fails, Six Nations resistance holds against military and racist mob

At 5 AM over 150 heavily armed Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) invade the camp, using Tasers, batons, tear gas, and pepper spray against unarmed Six Nations people and arresting 16 individuals (charges include assault with a weapon, mischief to public property, intimidation, resisting arrest, creating a disturbance, and assaulting police). The people at the camp courageously resist and force police to retreat. Supporters from across North America pledge to come to the camp to stand in solidarity. Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty says the police action is "completely independent'' and that his government didn't learn of the raid until it was already in progress.

Reports from the frontlines

Ontario Provincial Police statement

Media reports

Government debate

After the failed invasion, Ontario Aboriginal Affairs Minister David Ramsay calls on his federal counterpart Jim Prentice to appoint a personal envoy to take part in talks with the Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs). Deputy Commissioner Maurice Pillon says the OPP has no immediate plans to go in again, but that they intend to maintain a perimeter around the camp and continue their command post in a school near the area.

People at the camp maintain the peace throughout the night after the raid, despite provocation by a mob of 300 white residents who come to the camp to tell Six Nations people and their supporters to "go home" (!).

Apr 19, 2006: Ontario premier promises not to use violence

Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty pledges that the dispute will be settled in a "peaceful manner", but the police presence continues.

Apr 18, 2006: Talks break down as governments refuse to negotiate on substantive issues

The Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) issues a release stating that talks held over the weekend and Monday night have been unsuccessful as the federal and Ontario governments have refused to acknowledge the issues raised by the Haudenoniso -- an immediate moratorium on development by Henco of the lands in Caledonia that are under reclamation, agreement not to criminalize Six Nations people who are reclaiming their lands, and an end to backroom dealing between federal and provincial representatives and the Indian Act Council on land issues.

April 16, 2006: Indian Act band council votes to defer to Haudenoniso on land issues

At a meeting of the Indian Act band council, the council votes 7 to 6 in favor of turning land matters over to the Haudenoniso (Rotino'shon:ni Confederacy Council of Chiefs). According to observer Kahentinetha Horn, from Mohawk Nation News, "The band council decision to hand matters concerning land over to the traditional Confederacy council that Canada violently deposed in 1924 is a political breakthrough. It suggests that Canada can no longer 'buy' enough support to keep up its pretense that their puppet government is legitimate. It shows that even those people who take part in the band council elections are aware of the frauds that were perpetrated on the Six Nations people."

April 15, 2006: Settler mentality prevails at bogus "negotiations"

Provincial and federal government representatives continue to meet with Indian Act band council and Henco's lawyers to discuss compensation for Henco's losses. Federal money is suggested for Six Nations to "look at its own governance structure" -- funding ways to continue paternalistic interference with Six Nations governance, rather than dealing with the theft of indigenous land. In a joint offer, federal and Ontario governments offer to "give" Six Nations other land in the Haldimand Tract as "compensation" if the people at the camp leave. (Yes, they offered Six Nations their own land.)

April 13, 2006: Federal government finally sits down to talk; Henco compensation a possibility

The federal government finally meets with traditional chiefs, Clan Mothers, and camp spokespeople. Henco, Six Nations Indian Act band council members, senior OPP officers, Haldimand town council, and Ontario government representatives are also present. Ontario Aboriginal Affairs Minister David Ramsay says he wants to work with Henco to help them with their "financial pain".

April 11-12, 2005: Days of action in solidarity with Six Nations

Solidarity actions are held in Guelph, Montréal, North Battleford, Toronto, Saskatoon, Vancouver, and Victoria, calling for an immediate cessation of Henco's activities, peaceful nation-to-nation negotiations and a withdrawal of police forces, and an end to the continued illegal expropriation of Indigenous lands and territories.

April 7, 2005: Federal government says it has ideas for resolution but is waiting for report

Haldimand County Mayor Marie Trainer and other county officials meet with Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice in Ottawa. Prentice states that he "has a few ideas on how to resolve the standoff" but is "waiting for a report on the situation from a fact-finder".

April 6, 2006: Feds and province refuse to take responsibility

The Department of Indian Affairs says the conflict “has nothing to do with the federal government”, that this is a police matter and that police fall under provincial jurisdiction. The Ontario Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs says that Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty “remains committed to further co-operation with Ontario’s First Nations but will not get involved in the standoff”.

April 5, 2006: Indian Act band council tries to reassert authority at community meeting

At a community meeting to discuss the Indian Act band council's progress on resolving land claims, band council leader Dave General says headway has been made with the Ontario and federal government since 2004, and expresses optimism that the land claim process "can make a difference in the future". A Six Nations community member from the camp calls for General to be impeached.

April 4, 2006: Caledonia developers call for police action; mayor calls for federal involvement

Contractors and construction business owners organize a rally of several hundred non-indigenous Caledonia residents in front of the Caledonia Haldimand County office and the Caledonia OPP office to call for police action against Six Nations people. Notices distributed throughout town state, “If this situation is not resolved quickly, we could all be looking at significant decreases in property values.” Councillor Craig Ashbaugh says, "The land claim dispute is jeopardizing future development for Haldimand and a moratorium on development cannot be allowed." Haldimand Mayor Marie Trainer tells reporters that she will be travelling to Ottawa to meet with federal Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice and local cabinet minister Diane Finley to try to find a resolution.

April 3, 2006: Police say they want peace, but continue to mass forces

Police state that they will only use force after "every peaceful option is explored," but continue to build up forces in Caledonia. At their command centre, a former elementary school, two dozen police vehicles and a uniformed officer guard the door; residents describe a tripling of visible forces in the last week.

March 31, 2006: Quiet day at camp; Okiijida Society pledges support

Police keep their distance, with a lone cruiser monitoring the camp. Despite the day of relative calm, people continue to prepare for the possibility of police invasion. The Okiijida Society issues a yellow alert for all Warrior Societies to monitor the situation and be prepared for possible action.

March 30, 2006: Six Nations hold firm despite provocation

Sheriff John Dawson comes to the camp to read the latest version of the injunction. Dawson leaves after the proclamation Notice of Violation of the Law is read to remind the sheriff that he has no jurisdiction on Six Nations land and is in violation of international law by his acts of aggression.

March 29, 2006: Court order changed to facilitate police enforcement

In response to Crown concerns the existing injunction is "too vague for the OPP to enforce", Ontario Superior Court Justice David Marshall changes the wording of the injunction to include fingerprinting and photographing of arrestees. Henco's lawyer states, "We can expect to see an immediate response by the OPP". People at the camp vow to hold fast. "They're still missing the whole issue of jurisdiction and title and that we're allies, not subjects," says camp spokesperson Janie Jamieson.

March 27, 2006: Federal "fact-finder" sent back to Ottawa with call for meaningful negotiation

Clan Mothers and Haudenoniso (Council of Chiefs) send federal "fact-finder" Coyle back to Ottawa with a message to the federal government to send someone with proper authority to conduct nation-to-nation land negotiations. Haudenoniso announce their support of the camp and thank the Clan Mothers for keeping the peace.

March 24, 2006: Federal government sends in "fact-finder"

University of Western Ontario law professor Michael Coyle goes to the site to deliver a written communique from Minister of Indian Affairs Jim Prentice to Six Nations people at the camp, stating that Coyle is on a "fact-finding" mission for the federal government to "investigate the nature of the grievances, identify the jurisdictional implications and explore the possibility for mediations". This is the first action taken by the federal government since the land reclamation began.

March 23, 2006: Six Nations people prepare for possible police action

As the deadline passes for enforcement of the judge's order, people at the camp brace for police action. "There's a consensus that the people who are doing the protesting have a legitimate protest....The residents of Caledonia feel the federal government should step up and fix it -- across Canada, not just here," says a longtime non-indigenous resident of Caledonia.

March 22, 2006: Strong show of solidarity at Six Nations camp

In response to the March 17 judge's order last week stating the site must be clear by 2 PM on March 22, over 200 people gather in support of Haudenosaunee sovereignty. Women lead the way, with 50 women (including Clan Mothers) linking arms in a chain to block construction crews.

March 20, 2006: Clan Mothers issue statement objecting to invasion of Kaianereh'ko:wa

March 17, 2006: Judge gives police the green light to use force

Ontario Superior Court Justice David Marshall issues an enforcement order stating that any Six Nations people or supporters who do not leave the Henco construction site by March 22 will be forcibly removed and charged with criminal contempt of court, with a possible 30-day sentence.

March 16, 2006: Injunction proceedings continue despite judge's conflict of interest

A hearing is held in provincial court to determine how the injunction issued on March 9 will be enforced. Ontario Superior Court Justice David Marshall refuses to recuse himself from the case despite Indigenous activist Dawn Smith's challenge that his ownership of land in the Haldimand Tract as a conflict of interest in the case.

March 15, 2006: Federal government refuses to get involved

The Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development says it will not take action to address the issues raised by Six Nations about theft of their land, characterizing the reclamation as a dispute "between the protesters and the developer".

March 9, 2006: Order from judge -- Get off your own land or you're a criminal

Ontario Superior Court Justice David Marshall issues a permanent injunction against Six Nations people, stating that the people re-occupying their territory are in criminal contempt of court. Inspector Brian Haggith of the Cayuga OPP says, "We are going to do what we can to resolve this peacefully"; according to Cayuga OPP spokesperson Paula Wright, the injunction is a civil order that must be enforced by the sheriff, as the OPP have no power to forcibly remove the protesters unless a criminal offence is committed. A hearing is set for March 16 to determine enforcement. The people at the camp vow to continue the reclamation.

March 5, 2006: Henco obtains injunction, but it's not enforceable

A local sheriff delivers an interim injuction by Henco Industries ordering Six Nations people to remove barricades and vehicles by Thursday March 8, and threatening forcible removal by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) if they continue to block construction. OPP say they don’t have authority to enforce the injunction because it’s a civil order. Federal officials say the dispute will have to be resolved locally.

March 4, 2006: Increased OPP presence near camp

The presence of 12 OPP cruisers outside the Haldimand County fire station in downtown Hagersville leads people at the camp to wonder if police are massing for an attempt to stop the land reclamation. A Cayuga OPP spokesperson confirms that aboriginal OPP officers have been brought in to "deal with the occupation". One officer states that Henco Industries has applied for a court injunction to have Six Nations people removed from the site; Henco won't confirm whether this is true.

February 28, 2006: Six Nations reclaim land

Six Nations people and supporters reoccupy the land to block further construction by Henco Industries on Six Nations land, saying they will stay until jurisdiction and title over the land is properly restored, and Six Nations sovereignty respected.