The native land protest in Caledonia escalated yesterday to become what is likely a watershed moment in Canadian history. Who's right and who's wrong notwithstanding, the protest neatly coincided with the Ipperwash Inquiry and was likely a calculated move on the part of native activists. With the benefit of media attention and public opinion largely swayed to the native cause visa vie the Dudley George incident, the native occupation at Douglas Creek Estates was a PR windfall. What politician in his/her right mind would risk forcible removal of militant native warriors? As weeks turned to months in the land dispute, the goodwill of local public opinion began to erode and pressure brought to bear on the current Liberal government to act to resolve matters. Paying lip service to a peaceful resolution became the familiar refrain from all parties involved.
Not anymore. O.P.P. intervention and the removal by force of native protestors has sparked what will likely result in a volatile resolution not witnessed in a generation. The botched attempt has only bolstered the entrenched native resistance in what may result in Ipperwash squared for Dalton McGuinty. His lack of leadership and buck passing is weasel-like as usual.
Unconfirmed reports of Canadian military troop deployment, while troubling, would not be unexpected. People are scared, citizens and businesses that peacefully let the events unfold, are now affected beyond comfort. Schools closed, businesses closed and losing revenue for fear of the safety of their employees are each enough to provoke the Federal response. The rule of law, the safety of it's citizens should and will trump any "white guilt" heretofore preventing action. To the natives concerns, perhaps the next strategic occupation should become the focus. Bringing public opinion onside can only be accomplished in our society through education and awareness. Frightening Canadians and assaulting police will do little to advance the cause, however noble it might be.
