[IPSM] IPSM Ottawa Draft Basis of Unity

[mattm-b at resist.ca]

hello folks,

the IPSM Ottawa is currently revising our basis of unity.  i thought i
would share it with folks on the list and invite them to comment.  i
realize that the IPSM in montreal doesn't currently exist (i think that's
right, no?) but we'd still appreciate hearing comments from folks.

our e-mail is: ipsmo at riseup.net

in solidarity and respects,
matt


The Indigenous Peoples Solidarity Movement Ottawa (IPSMO) is a grassroots
organization that directly supports indigenous peoples in diverse
struggles for justice and decolonization.  We believe that the liberation
of non-indigenous people is also bound up in the struggle for
decolonization.  IPSMO is open to indigenous and non-indigenous people.

We provide support to actions and campaigns for Indigenous sovereignty,
self-determination, defense of the land, environmental justice, cultural
revitalization, the honouring of treaties and agreements and against
patriarchy and gender binaries.

We affirm the sacredness of Mother Earth, ecological unity and the
interdependence of all species, and the right to be free from ecological
destruction.

We support the right of the oppressed to self-defense.

We work in solidarity with indigenous people in local, national and
international campaigns, with the IPSM Ottawa’s emphasis being on local
and regional organizing.  As we act in solidarity with indigenous people
we build relationships where we can learn from indigenous knowledge.

We reject the white supremacist, capitalist, heteropatriarchy that is
colonial Canada.  We are committed to transforming colonial and oppressive
structures, systems and relationships.  We also work within our own
communities and ourselves to challenge the racism, lies, and half-truths
about indigenous peoples and colonization that pervade Canadian society.

We believe capitalism is a powerful force in the continuing exploitation
and oppression of indigenous and non-indigenous peoples.  We believe that
all systems of oppression, such as ableism, heteropatriarchy, religious
oppression, etc. are connected and must be opposed.  Therefore we reject
attempts to divide us and we cultivate alliances with other people,
organizations and movements struggling for justice, dignity and freedom.