The Importance of Safe, Clean Water
While the importance of indigenous consultation took centre stage at this rally, another important issue weaved its way into the speeches: the life-giving properties of water, and its importance to many indigenous communities.
Ralliers watch as indigenous speakers discuss the importance of clean and accessible water.
Master of ceremonies Claudette Commanda explained that access to water is a human rights issue, and that no one should have their water polluted by pipelines.
"We only have one Mother Earth. There’s only one earth for all of us."
- Claudette Commanda
Chippewa of the Thames Chief Leslee White-Eye related the fundamental element that unites humans to the environment: water.
Chief Leslee White-Eye looks up at the sky as it sprinkles around her.
The variety in the ralliers gathered outside the Supreme Court confirmed that this isn't just an indigenous issue, but a human one.
The rally also included poetry and musical performances.
One of the people at the rally shared a poem with the crowd.
A rallier also shared a song called "Oilpocalypse."
Hip hop artist Lee Reed sings a protest against Enbridge's Line 9.
Hip hop artists Lee Reed and Mother Tareka perform a song protesting Enbridge's Line 9.