Rally planned to protest accord

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A rally in front of the legislature building in Edmonton to protest the Meech Lake constitutional accord is planned for Monday, Nov. 23.

The Indian Association of Alberta (IAA) has invited anyone whose rights may be affected by the accord to meet at No. 1 Churchill Square at 10 a.m. From the square protesters will march to the legislature building for a rally at 11:15 a.m.

Peter Many Wounds, IAA political adviser, says the rally coincides with Premier Getty's introduction of the legislature to his cabinet. "We want him to know there are many people opposed to the accord," he says, explaining the accord will affect the rights of Albertans in general as well as treaty and Aboriginal rights. Representatives of groups representing handicapped people, labor, minorities, women and opposition government are expected to join the rally.

According to Lou Desmarais, IAA spokesperson, confirmed rally speakers are Keith Penner, Indian Affairs critic; Ray Martin, Alberta's National Democratic Party leader and Nick Taylor, provincial liberal leader. Joyce Fairbairn, liberal senator; Tony Pennikut, Yukon government head and a representative of the Northwest Territories assembly have been invited to speak, but have not yet confirmed.

IAA leader Gregg Smith is expected to address the rally. Metis Association of Alberta president Larry Desmeules and Native Council of Canada (Alberta) head Doris Ronnenberg are expected to attend.