KAIROS joins Burnaby Mountain Trans Mountain pipeline protest, April 28


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KAIROS Executive Director Jennifer Henry to stand in solidarity with members of T’sleil-Waututh, faith leaders and people of faith

(Toronto, ON) – KAIROS Canada’s Executive Director, Jennifer Henry, will join members of Tsleil Waututh, faith leaders and other people of faith on Burnaby Mountain on April 28 to protest the Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain pipeline expansion.

In its April 25 statement, KAIROS expresses its profound disappointment with the federal government’s decision to support the pipeline expansion, which violates the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.

The 29-month National Energy Board review process for this project is being challenged in court by some First Nations for failing to adequately consult with Indigenous peoples, and for not respecting Indigenous title and rights, including the right to free, prior and informed consent.

KAIROS is also concerned about the impacts such a project will have on Indigenous women and girls. According to a 2016 study by Amnesty International, threats to the safety of Indigenous women and girls are more acute in regions where there is intensive resource development with temporary workforces. This study corroborates KAIROS’ research in this area.

In addition to infringing on the rights of Indigenous peoples, and compromising reconciliation efforts and Indigenous women’s safety, the pipeline expansion would undermine Canada’s commitments to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions under the Paris Climate Agreement.

KAIROS’ participation is in response to a call from members of Tsleil Waututh to faith leaders and all people of faith to stand with Coast Salish peoples in defence of the land, water and climate.

About KAIROS: Canadian Ecumenical Justice Initiatives

KAIROS is a faith-based social justice organization of ten Canadian churches and religious organizations. We focus on Indigenous rights, international human rights, and ecological and gender justice. We deliberate on issues of common concern, advocate for social change and join with people of faith and goodwill in action for social transformation. Learn more: www.kairoscanada.org.

Media Contact:

Beth Lorimer, Ecological Justice Program Coordinator, KAIROS Canada

877-403-8933 ext. 225, blorimer@kairoscanada.org

 


Filed in: Ecological Justice, Indigenous Rights, Media Releases, UNDRIP Blog Updates

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