Roman Catholic Church opposes armed struggle

Page 3

The Roman Catholic Church would not support the spilling of blood by armed Mohawk Indians from Oka, Quebec, who are struggling to retain their traditional lands, says a spokesperson from the Roman Catholic Social Justice Commission in Edmonton.

But it is one that's recognized as a "last-ditch" effort by the country's aboriginal people fighting for their rights, said Linda Winski.

Native Canadians have been docile in their approach to maintain their rights while the government of Canada has continued to take advantage of them, she said.

"They've (Indians) had enough talk. They've found it doesn't work." She said the federal government and the government of Quebec have left them no choice but to rely on force.

Armed Warriors continue to hold their ground during a land-claim dispute that gained the support of Native groups from across Canada. A July 11 gun battle between Indians and Surete du Quebec police ended with the death of Cpl. Marcel Lemay. It became a confrontation many observers believe was fueled by federal government neglect of aboriginal rights.

Winski said the fight of the Mohawks is not isolated to Quebec and warned more violence may be imminent in other parts of the country where Natives are struggling through government oppression.

"The church has always preferred the option of non-violence. But historically when people get pushed to the limit, they feel they have no other options (but violence)," she said.