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From I AM A WITNESS site

Canada opposes public posting of tribunal transcripts

Letter from the Department of Justice
Response from First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada

Two important patterns appear to be emerging about the Canadian Government's actions in this case. First, they want to avoid a full hearing on the merits and second they want to avoid this case being broadcast or their witnesses testifying in public.

After losing two attempts to derail the tribunal on a legal loophole in Federal Court, the Canadian Government has filed a motion to dismiss on the same legal loophole at the Tribunal. The Canadian Human Rights Act allows claims of discrimination on the basis of a a good, service or accomodation and Canada argues that their First Nations child and family service program is not a service. We strongly disagree and are concerned that the Canadian government does not want this important case concerning vulnerable children decided publically on the facts.

Canada's motion to dismiss will be heard on June 2, 3, 2010 (9:30-5:00) at the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal located at 11th floor, 160 Elgin Street, Ottawa. This hearing is open to the public and we encourage the public, particularly Elders and youth, to come. Canada has said it does not want the hearings broadcast by the Aboriginal Peopels Television Network as it would make Canada's witnesses nervous and may disrupt relationships between public servants and First Nations. First Nations have raised no similiar concerns about its witnesses and has strongly supported all measures of public accountability including the motion by the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network to broadcast the proceedings. The motion by Aboriginal Peoples Television Network to broadcast the tribunal was heard in February of 2010 and we are currently awaiting a ruling from the Tribunal.

Take Action!

People of all ages and organizations can help ensure First Nations children receive equitable child welfare services on reserve. Here's how you can help:

1. Sign up to be a witness 
   People of all ages and organizations can sign up - it is free and takes under two minutes!
2. Encourage people and organizations in your circle to sign up to be a witness
3. Write to Member of Parliament and to Prime Minister Harper and demand that the federal government withdraw its motion to dismiss the tribunal and let Canadians hear the facts! Please copy us on any emails or letters info@fncaringsociety.com.
4. Hold a brown bag lunch at your workplace, school or neighbourhood to raise awareness about the tribunal
5. Make a donation to support the ongoing work for equitable services for First Nations children
6. Buy an 'I am a witness' button and spread the word