CPT seeks participants for a delegation to the traditional territories of the Ardoch Algonquin and Shabot Obaadjiwan First Nations (about 80 km north of Kingston, ON) to support their nonviolent struggle to protect their unceded land from uranium exploration and mining by Frontenac Ventures Corporation (FVC).

An open-pit uranium mine would release toxic gases and leave millions of tonnes of radioactive tailings that would permanently pollute groundwater. The Ardoch Algonquin First Nation (AAFN) says, “Uranium mining will lead directly to our social, spiritual and cultural demise.” The Algonquins have called a moratorium on uranium exploration and are seeking a resolution to their historic land claims.

After securing the gate at the Robertsville Mine for 107 days throughout the summer of 2007, both First Nations participated in a mediation process with the federal and provincial governments and FVC. Talks broke down in February 2008 and subsequently an Ontario Superior Court judge issued a six month prison sentence to Ardoch leader Bob Lovelace and stiff fines to Algonquin leaders for their nonviolent resistance to a court injunction against their blockade. An appeal court decision in May released Lovelace and stayed the fines.

Both First Nations are continuing their efforts to bring Ontario to the negotiating table in a meaningful way. The Shabot Obaadjiwan has filed a suit against the provincial and federal governments to oblige them to consult.

Local “settler” (non-Algonquin) residents are supporting the campaign. Many municipalities, including Ottawa and Kingston, have joined the call for a moratorium.

Click here to apply.

The CPT Aboriginal Justice Delegation will meet with Algonquin leaders and settler and environmental activists; seek the perspectives of those who support uranium exploration; make visits to the historic blockade site; develop a analysis of colonialism; participate in undoing racism training; and organize a public witness in support of the Algonquin’s struggle for justice.

FUNDRAISING EXPECTATION: $275 (US or CDN). Delegates arrange their own transportation to Toronto or Kingston, Ontario.