Copyright © 2001 NLThomas
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TORONTO (Burnt Church, New Brunswick) - There is an urgent need for Canadian and U.S. citizens and others to understand what Aboriginal communities are facing today. The Mi’kmaq community of Esgenoôpetitj (Burnt Church, New Brunswick) is struggling for recognition of its right to a peaceful, sustainable lobster fishery. At the invitation of the community, Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) has maintained a violence-reduction team at the fishery since April 2000. You are invited to participate in a CPT delegation to Esgenoôpetitj in August 2001.

Last year, Canadian fisheries officers repeatedly attacked Aboriginal fishers, seizing their traps, and ramming their boats. CPT observers on board the fishing boats documented many of these encounters and raised awareness around the world. CPT’s summary report “Gunboat Diplomacy” called attention to the Canada’s abuse of human rights at Esgenoôpetitj (Visit CPT in Canada).

The Mi’kmaq people in Esgenoôpetitj fear that the government has not yet changed its course of action and that there could be more violence during the fall fishery which begins in mid-August. Delegation participants will meet various people related to the issue and may join the CPT team in its daily work.

Participants in this delegation should be prepared to:
- learn about Aboriginal issues through contact with people at Esgenoôpetitj
- camp in the community under cool summer conditions and/or stay with local Mi’qmaq families
- possibly participate in a nonviolent public witness relating to Aboriginal fishing concerns
- communicate their experiences to local congregations, groups and the media upon return
- raise Cdn$400 to cover delegation expenses. In addition to this, delegation participants will be responsible for the transportation costs to Miramichi, N.B. CPT will arrange the transportation.

CPT seeks individuals with some of the following experience and gifts: - interest or experience in Aboriginal issues and human rights work
- commitment to or experience in non-violent action
- willingness to engage in public witness, vigils and worship
- willingness to participate in daily periods of team worship and reflection