Innu protesters camp on Parliament Hill

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At noon on Oct. 6, some 50 Innu protesters from Labrador set up camp on the front lawn of Parliament Hill to protest demands the federal government that they sign the Indian Act.

Led Innu Nation president Peter Penashue, they quickly set up a tent, lit a fire and held an impromptu press conference.

About 35 of the protesters were from Sheshatshiu and 15 from Davis Inlet. Katie Rich, David Inlet Chief, explained why she would not sign the Indian Act.

"I think the Indian Act has destroyed Native people across Canada. If we sign the Indian Act, our people will be wiped out."

Protesters are on the hill without permission from the federal government. But they do have a letter of permission from the Algonquin of Barrier Lake, who claim traditional title to most of the land on which Ottawa is built.

RCMP have informed the protesters that they cannot erect a tent or protest without a permit.

"If you want, you can arrest my people," said Penashue.

"We are not getting a permit."