Leaders march together to bring awareness of issues

Saskatchewan's Aboriginal and provincial leaders walked together in the spirit of unity on May 29 in a Solidarity March to bring awareness to issues concerning First Nations people.
The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) organized and hosted the Solidarity March in support of the National Day of Action. The day's events were to address issues such as poverty, education, and infrastructure on First Nations.
Approximately 100 Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people gathered at the First Nations University of Canada and marched to a rally in front of the Legislature Building. Speeches were made by various leaders such as Vice-Chief Lyle Whitefish and NDP opposition leader Lorne Calvert.
FSIN Vice-Chief Morley Watson said he wanted the event to spur discussion among the public about the issues First Nations people face on a daily basis-such as poverty, unemployment, and over-crowded housing-despite the province being in the midst of an economic boom.
"Saskatchewan's wallets are bulging, but yet we continue to be poor, unemployed, and we don't have much of a future. We are hoping that this new government and the rest of Canada will say they want to involve us in discussions that will bring great change to our people," said Watson.
Watson added that Canadians should speak to their different levels of government about assisting Aboriginals so they can have the same opportunities as other citizens in contributing to a better Saskatchewan and Canada.
Christine Tell, minister of tourism, parks, culture and sport also participated in the march and rally. She said she would take the FSIN vice-chiefs concerns back to the Saskatchewan government.
"The point is we are willing partners with our First Nations and Métis people. Only will talking bring about common understanding so that we as a government understand where we have to go to ensure that we are doing the best for the First Nations and the people of Saskatchewan," said Tell.
NDP leader Lorne Calvert believes it's important to recognize treaties obligations "because we are all treaty people.
"It is important to stand shoulder-to-shoulder, particularly in this province where there are very, very significant issues that do face our Aboriginal community," said Calvert.