Do not Destroy the Dene Suline Traditional Land

The Government of Alberta wants to build a campground/RV park on the north side of Cold Lake, directly over top of a very sacred site on the traditional territory of the Dene Suline. This site has tremendous historical and spiritual significance for the Dene Suline people.

The site has seen generations of Dene Suline people move through every summer to dry fish, to pick berries and traditional medicines, and to hold sacred ceremonies. Grave sites, and archaeological artifacts that date back over 4000 years were discovered on the site in 2008, when plans for the campground expansion began. Expansion plans were halted at that time and have recently begun again

At the beginning of May 2011, demolition crews began tearing down trees, clearing bush, and berry producing plants, and moving earth to begin construction of the RV park without the full consultation or free, prior and informed consent of the Dene Suline people or giving them warning that this demolition would begin then.

On May 6th, 2011 some members of Dene Suline have erected a peace camp to stop the construction of the RV park and to continue to practice their spiritual, cultural and treaty rights. The members of the peace camp may be forcefully removed from site or arrested.

It is pivotal to keep in mind the historical injustices imposed upon the Dene Suline peoples. The Residential schools have a lasting impact to this day and generations to come. The Primrose Lake Air Weapons Range (PLAWR) is also on the Dene Suline traditional territory as are numberous oil, gas and tar sands projects.

Please feel free to contact the following ministers to promote action:
1.Minister of tourism and parks- Cindy Ady: 403-256-8969. email calgary.shaw@assembly.ab.ca
2.Minister if Aboriginal affairs - Len Webber 403-288-4453. email calgary.foothills@assembly.ab.ca