By: Pam Wright, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Chatham Voice
Walpole Island First Nation is warning its community to be careful when crossing the border to the United States.
Chief Leela Thomas and council issued the advisory Jan. 29, based on a recommendation from Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepanik.
According to AFN, at least one First Nation person was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and had their status card seized before returning to Canada. This prompted a warning to First Nation people to carry proper identification and documentation, such as a “familial lineage letter, status card, long-form birth certificate and government-issued photo ID.”
Based on a recent social media post, recent ICE enforcement action infringes on the rights outlined in the Jay Treaty, which affirms the right of Indigenous people to freely cross the border between Canada and the United States.
Indigenous leaders state that the enforcement actions are eroding long-standing cross-border arrangements.
Chief and council are reminding band members to stay safe and vigilant during these “unprecedented times.
“Protecting the rights, safety and well-being of Walpole Island First Nation members remains our highest priority,” the release said, adding more information will be released as it becomes available.
