Statement: Chief Spence ends Hunger Strike

January 24, 2013

For Immediate Release

January 24, 2013

OTTAWA – The Aboriginal Peoples’ Commission of the Liberal Party of Canada released the following statement on news that Chief Theresa Spence has ended her hunger strike:

The Aboriginal Peoples’ Commission is pleased to hear that Chief Theresa Spence of the Attawapiskat First Nation has ended the fast that saw her go without solid food for 44 days.

Chief Spence, through her extraordinary and selfless efforts – and the many people who joined, assisted, and supported her – reminded Canadians of the deplorable living conditions faced by many Indigenous communities and assisted in creating significant awareness and understanding of the fractured treaty relationship in Canada.

Although there is still much work to be done, the 13 point plan – agreed to by Chief Spence, the Assembly of First Nations, and the Liberal Party of Canada – paves a way forward for a renewed partnership and sets the tone for future relations between First Nations and the Crown.

The Aboriginal Peoples’ Commission looks forward to working with Chief Spence, the Liberal Parliamentary Caucus, and many other Indigenous leaders toward a more meaningful relationship based on mutual respect, a clear path forward, and achievable results.

We wish Chief Spence health and happiness as she returns to her community and her family and pledge to continue making positive change with Indigenous people for our communities.”

 – 30 –

For more information on the Aboriginal Peoples’ Commission, please contact:

Kevin Seesequasis
Vice-President (Communications)
Contact Us