Edmontonians rally behind Mohawks

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A non-Native group which organized a rally Wednesday outside Canada Place in downtown Edmonton says support is growing for Canada's Native people.

According to Leo Campos, a member of the newly-formed group Citizens Against Genocide, issues which affect Native people also affect non-Natives.

"It's time for everyone in this country to sit down, listen and then respond," said Campos. Indian problems have been ignored for years and the white society really knows little about the problems facing Indian people today, he said.

While the group doesn't condone Indians taking up arms such as happened in Quebec, it understands it's sometimes necessary to bring attention to the issues. "When all other avenues have been exhausted, these kinds of actions are sometimes all that remain. People are forced to use the approach which will put pressure on groups which need to become aware of problems, and which can make a difference," he said.

Over 100 Native and non-Native people cheered, distributed pamphlets and carried signs outside the federal building to the accompaniment of traditional drums. Many motorists slowed in the rush-hour traffic and honked to show support.

Even though the barricades had already begun to be taken down at the Mercier Bridge in Quebec when the Edmonton rally began, the recent events in Quebec have convinced many people that the time to recognize aboriginal people, their rights and their concerns is long overdue.

"We've got to get together and settle the problems. They affect our lives, as well and we are all a part of this country," said Campos.

The group also held a peaceful demonstration Tuesday at the north end of Edmonton's High Level Bridge to call for a peaceful solution to the dispute between Mohawk Warriors and Canadian soldiers in Quebec.