Protestors gather at federal office in solidarity with other protests taking place around Canada | Regina Leader-Post

16.4.16

Protestors gather at federal office in solidarity with other protests taking place around Canada | Regina Leader-Post: Protests began in Toronto, James Bay and Winnipeg in response to the state of emergencies called by First Nations communities dealing with high rates of suicides and suicide attempts.

On Sunday, Attawapiskat in Northern Ontario called a state of emergency after the 11th suicide attempt in one day in April and in March there were 28 attempts. Last month, Saulteaux Pelly Chiefs Health Alliance declared a state of crisis due to the number of deaths in those communities related to drugs, alcohol, suicide and chronic health issues.

As the group of protestors chanted for change, held up their protest signs, waved flags and passing motorists honked their horns in support, a sign posted on the front door of the INAC office stated the office was closed for the day.

Organizer, Robin Pitawanakwat said she informed INAC about the protest on Thursday and was somewhat surprised by the closure being there were no plans for protesters to enter the building.

INAC confirmed it closed for the day because of the planned protest.