
Episode 32- The Criminalization of Indigenous Land Defenders in Canada — Our Truth Part one, Chief Na'Moks and Jesse Stoeppler
As Long As The River FlowsShow Notes
Episode 32- The Criminalization of Indigenous Land Defenders in Canada — Our Truth Part one, Chief Na'Moks and Jesse Stoeppler WHAT This is part one of a four part series on the criminalization of land defenders across Canada, highlighting firsthand experiences and legal injustices. WHO Chief Na'Moks is a Hereditary Chief of the Tsayu (Beaver Clan), one of the five clans of the Wet'suwet'en Nation. The traditional name he carries is thousands of years old and, as part of their matrilineal society, was also held by his grandmother—who wore the very same regalia he wears today. The role of a Hereditary Chief carries the sacred responsibility of protecting the 22,000 square kilometers of Wet'suwet'en territory, a duty grounded in ancestral law that has remained unchanged both before and after colonial contact. As a vocal and respected leader, Chief Na'Moks has brought international attention to the violations of Wet'suwet'en rights in the context of unconsented resource development. He has spoken at the United Nations Headquarters in New York and Geneva, sharing his people's message about the militarized role the RCMP plays on their territory. Since 2019, he has appeared in nearly 100 media interviews, both print and broadcast, denouncing what he describes as a campaign of state-backed harassment, surveillance, and discrimination. Jesse Stoeppler proudly calls the Skeena Watershed home. After completing a degree in Europe he returned to start a family and raise two future leaders amongst the peaks of the beautiful Bulkley Valley. Mentored by Hereditary Chief and Matriarch Yaga'lahl (Dora B. Wilson) he embraces Gitxsan and Wet'suwet'en culture and has been actively participating in title & rights and Clan governance as a member of Wilp Spookwx (Lax Gibuu / Gitumden). As a Project Manager for a multi-million trust fund, Jesse was able to lead the way in establishing comprehensive community planning, land use management and create his community's Indigenous economic development. MUSIC Song: Signal To Noise Composer: Scott Buckley Website: https://youtube.com/user/musicbyscottb License: Free To Use YouTube license youtube-free Music powered by BreakingCopyright: https://breakingcopyright.com
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Episode 35 - The Criminalization of Indigenous Land Defenders in Canada - Our Truth Part Four, Frances Mahon and Erin Riley-Oetll WHAT This is part four of a four part series on the criminalization of land defenders across Canada, highlighting firsthand experiences and legal injustices. WHO Frances Mahon is a fierce litigator. The core of her practice is defending people against serious allegations in a variety of settings, including complex criminal trials and appeals, police investigations, and constitutional government overreach. Frances provides legal services to individuals, families, non-profits, companies, and other organizations. She has appeared in courts and tribunals across the country, including frequent appearances at the Supreme Court of Canada. Erin Riley-Oettl currently serves as the Manager of Human Rights Law, Campaigns, and Advocacy at Amnesty International Canada since August 2023. Amnesty International is a global movement of more than 10 million people who are committed to creating a future where human rights are enjoyed by everyone. No government is beyond scrutiny. Amnesty International uncovers the truth and holds human rights violators to account. MUSIC Song: A Better Future Composer: Miguel Johnson Website: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCenTwNA8ioN37RD7bfNSUpA License: Free To Use YouTube license youtube-free Music powered by BreakingCopyright: https://breakingcopyright.com